Esther: Hidden Strength

Esther loved and clung to (although concealed) her descent. She was a true patriot and in the hour of crisis was not ashamed to acknowledge her race even though it could have been fatal to disclose it.

Humble girls have often married rich men and have forgotten their origin. They have in fact, been ashamed of anything that might remind them of it. Esther dared to risk death for her people and so escaped dying with them. By her patriotism she won for her nation a great deliverance and G-d used her as an instrument for the working out of a glorious purpose.

While Esther had the help and support of Mordecai in fighting the decree that was aimed at destroying the Jewish people, it was Esther who was able to implement the plan and who had the foresight and insight to know how it had to be done. And it was she who insisted that the story of Purim be written for she knew that its relevance to the Jewish people would always be pertinent. This is why the "Scroll of Esther" which is read from during the holiday of Purim, is named after her.

Esther was well educated and read and wrote in several languages. Education has always been important in the Jewish culture and the story of Mordecai’s heroism being written down and read to the king was no accident. Esther was beautiful, but she was also intelligent, loyal and courageous. A true role model!