King Ahasuerus promotes the wicked Haman to a position of great authority, demanding that all his servants bow down and pay homage to him. However, Mordecai, a faithful Jewish man and Esther's cousin, refuses to bow to Haman, infuriating the vengeful advisor. Learning of Mordecai's Jewish identity, Haman devises a plot to exterminate all the Jews throughout the Persian Empire. He casts lots (purim) to determine the day for their destruction.
When Mordecai hears of Haman's sinister plan, he mourns and pleads with Esther, now Queen of Persia, to intercede with the king on behalf of their people. Esther is initially hesitant due to the law that anyone approaching the king without invitation risks death, but Mordecai reminds her that she too will not be spared from Haman's wrath.
Esther bravely resolves to approach the king and calls for a three-day fast among the Jews to seek divine guidance and courage.
Genesis 33 captures one of the most poignant moments in Jacob’s life: his long-dreaded reunion with Esau. Expecting vengeance, Jacob prepares for confrontation with...
We begin our study of the book of Nehemiah by examining the life of the cupbearer turned governor. Nehemiah is an example of a...
Called the most beautiful book ever written, the Gospel of Luke begins by telling us about Jesus’ parents; the birth of His cousin, John...
