For such a time as this
King Ahasuerus (Ezra 4:6) was in control when a dispute arose in Jerusalem about the rebuilding of the temple. Esther was an orphan brought up by an older cousin during this time. As we shall see, she played an important role in Jewish history.
For your convenience – Bible online
Ch.1 Queen Vashti refuses the King’s request
Ch.2 Search for a new queen leads to orphaned Jewish girl Shushan
Ch.3 Haman’s pride causes confusion in the city of Shushan
Ch.4 Esther rises to the occasion
Ch.5 Esther’s plan
Ch.6 The king remembers Mordecai
Ch.7 Haman’s punishment
Ch.8 Decree sent to protect Jews
Ch.9 Jewish holiday of Purim established Purim Holiday
Ch.10 Mordecai’s promotion
Questions
Who was the king? (1:1-2)
Who was the queen? (1:9)
What did he do when he got drunk? (1:10-11)
How did the queen respond? (1:12)
How did the king react to her refusal? (1:13-19)
Since he couldn’t see the queen what was suggested? (2:2-4)
What relation was Esther to Mordecai? (2:7)
Who was chosen to be queen? (2:17)
How did Mordecai act toward Haman? (3:2)
How did Haman seek revenge? (3:8,13)
What did Esther do when she heard of the plan? (4:8-11)
How did Mordecai advise her? (4:13-14)
Describe Esther’s preparation for her role? (4:16-17)
What was Haman’s thoughts about the banquet? (5:11-12)
Haman’s wife, Zeresh, suggested a plan. Describe it. (5:14)
Why was Mordecai honored? How? (6:1-11)
What did Esther request during the second banquet? (7:3-4)
What sealed Haman’s fate? (7:8)
How did King Ahasuerus get around the decree he had previously made? (8:11)
What is the name of the holiday celebrated to memorialize this occasion? (9:26-28)