Topical Encyclopedia Hadassah, known more widely by her Persian name Esther, is a central figure in the biblical Book of Esther. Her account is pivotal in the Jewish festival of Purim, which commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them in the Persian Empire. The name Hadassah, meaning "myrtle" in Hebrew, reflects her Jewish heritage and identity, which plays a crucial role in the narrative of her life and the salvation of her people.Biblical Background Hadassah is introduced in the Book of Esther as a young Jewish woman living in the Persian capital of Susa during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I). She is an orphan, raised by her cousin Mordecai, who is a prominent figure among the Jewish exiles. The Bible notes her beauty and grace, which eventually lead to her selection as queen after the previous queen, Vashti, is deposed. The Book of Esther does not explicitly mention God, yet His providence is evident throughout the narrative. Hadassah's rise to queenship is seen as divinely orchestrated, positioning her to intercede for her people at a critical moment. Mordecai's counsel to Esther underscores this belief: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14). Role and Significance Hadassah's Jewish identity is initially concealed at Mordecai's instruction, allowing her to navigate the Persian court without prejudice. However, when Haman, an advisor to the king, plots to destroy the Jews, Esther's true identity becomes central to the narrative. Her courage in revealing her heritage and pleading for her people is a testament to her faith and bravery. Esther's declaration, "If I perish, I perish" (Esther 4:16), marks a pivotal moment of self-sacrifice and commitment to her people. Her actions lead to the king's favor, the downfall of Haman, and the issuance of a decree that allows the Jews to defend themselves. The Jewish festival of Purim celebrates this deliverance, with Esther's role as a savior figure being central to the observance. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, Hadassah's account is a profound example of divine providence and the importance of faithfulness and courage. Her life illustrates how God can use individuals, regardless of their circumstances, to fulfill His purposes. The narrative encourages believers to trust in God's timing and to act with courage and integrity, even in the face of great personal risk. Hadassah's transformation from a young Jewish girl to a queen who saves her people is a powerful reminder of the potential for God to work through those who are willing to stand for righteousness. Her account continues to inspire faith and courage in the face of adversity, serving as a timeless testament to the power of God's unseen hand in the lives of His people. Nave's Topical Index Esther 2:7And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid was fair and beautiful; whom Mordecai, when her father and mother were dead, took for his own daughter. Nave's Topical Index Strong's Hebrew 1919. Hadassah -- "myrtle," Esther's Jewish name... 1918, 1919. Hadassah. 1920 . "myrtle," Esther's Jewish name. Transliteration: Hadassah Phonetic Spelling: (had-as-saw') Short Definition: Hadassah. ... /hebrew/1919.htm - 6k Library The Net Broken Esther, the Queen. Resources Who was Mordecai in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about People in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.org Old Testament Individuals ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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