Esther

• DatesSet in the reign of Xerxes I (Ahasuerus), about 483–473 BC (debated)
• GenreHistory
• AuthorshipAnonymous; Jewish tradition names Mordecai or the Great Assembly
• TimelineExile & Return (including the Second Temple period)
• Key textsEsther 2; Esther 4; Esther 7–9
• Read the textEsther in the World English Bible
• Covered in classSession 3, Session 7

What the sources say, and how sure we are

• The text says

  The book never mentions God by name. It is set in the Persian capital Susa under King Ahasuerus.Esth 1:1; Esth 4:14

• Outside evidence

  Ahasuerus is the Hebrew form of the name of Xerxes I, who reigned 486–465 BC. The palace at Susa has been excavated, and the book’s details of the Persian court fit what is known. Greek historians name Xerxes’ queen as Amestris, and no outside record names Vashti or Esther.Herodotus 7–9

• Debated

  Scholars disagree about whether Esther is straightforward history, history shaped for storytelling, or a historical novella. The date of writing is also debated, from soon after the events to the Greek period.

• Christian conclusion

  Jewish and Christian readers have often seen in Esther a picture of God’s hidden providence working through ordinary events.Esth 4:14