Topical Encyclopedia The term "fatherless" in the Bible often refers to orphans or those who lack paternal guidance and protection. In the context of Esther, the concept of being fatherless is significant in understanding her background and the providential care of God in her life.Background of Esther Esther, originally named Hadassah, is a central figure in the Book of Esther, which is part of the Old Testament. She was a Jewish maiden living in the Persian Empire during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus). Esther was an orphan, having lost both her father and mother. This is explicitly mentioned in Esther 2:7 : "Mordecai had brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, the daughter of his uncle, because she had neither father nor mother. The young woman was lovely in form and appearance, and when her father and mother died, Mordecai took her in as his own daughter." Mordecai's Role Mordecai, Esther's cousin, assumed the role of her guardian. He raised her as his own daughter, providing her with the care and guidance she needed. Mordecai's role in Esther's life highlights the biblical principle of caring for the fatherless, as seen in passages like James 1:27 : "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world." Providence and Purpose Esther's account is a testament to God's providence and purpose for those who are fatherless. Despite her initial vulnerability, Esther rose to a position of influence as queen of Persia. Her ascent to royalty was not merely a result of her beauty or charm but was orchestrated by God for a greater purpose. Esther 4:14 captures this divine orchestration when Mordecai tells her, "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 if perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Esther's Courage and Faith Esther's courage and faith are central themes in her account. Despite being fatherless, she demonstrated remarkable bravery and reliance on God. Her willingness to risk her life by approaching the king uninvited to save her people is a powerful example of faith in action. Esther 4:16 records her resolve: "Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my maidens will fast as you do. After that, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish." Legacy Esther's legacy as a fatherless woman who became a queen and a savior of her people underscores the biblical truth that God is a "Father to the fatherless" (Psalm 68:5). Her life illustrates how God can use those who are marginalized or vulnerable to accomplish His divine purposes. Esther's account continues to inspire believers to trust in God's providence and to act with courage and faith, regardless of their circumstances. Torrey's Topical Textbook 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. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Things to be Meditated on as Thou Goest to the Church. The Mercy of God Paul's Departure and Crown; Christian Behavior Of Antichrist, and his Ruin: and of the Slaying the Witnesses. The Resurrection of the Dead, and Eternal Judgment: Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ... The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate, Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: Resources What does it mean that God is father to the fatherless? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about how widows are to be treated? | GotQuestions.org What is Christian Socialism? | GotQuestions.org Fatherless: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Fatherless: A Curse on Those Who Oppress Fatherless: A Type of Zion in Affliction Fatherless: Blessedness of Taking Care of Fatherless: Daughters of Zelophehad Fatherless: God Will: Be a Father of Fatherless: God Will: Be a Helper of Fatherless: God Will: Execute the Judgment of Fatherless: God Will: Hear the Cry of Fatherless: God Will: Punish Those Who Judge Not Fatherless: God Will: Punish Those Who Oppress Fatherless: Let Them Share in Our Blessings Fatherless: Promises With Respect To Fatherless: The Wicked: Judge not For Fatherless: The Wicked: Murder Fatherless: The Wicked: Oppress Fatherless: The Wicked: Overwhelm Fatherless: Visit in Affliction Fatherless: Wrong Not, in Judgment Related Terms |
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