Women of Other Faiths
Using common values contained in their respective teachings, women of all religious traditions can work together and collaborate in many areas especially peace building and women’s empowerment. Collectively women of all faiths can learn from each other’s struggles and histories, while showing support for women’s religious leadership roles worldwide. Please contribute to this archive by suggesting women of all faiths to be featured through our recommendation form.
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Queen Esther
Known For: Queen of Persia; her willingness to protect her fellow Jewish people
Dates: Fifth century B.C.E.
Faith: Judaism
Country: Iran
About
When King Ahasuerus of Persia was seeking a new wife because his first wife had disobeyed him, he chose Esther because of her extraordinary beauty.
However, the King was unaware that his wife was Jewish. At the time, the Jewish people and their culture were generally unappreciated and looked down upon in Persia. Esther’s uncle, Mordecai, told her not to tell the King about her Jewish heritage.
One day, Mordecai refused to bow to Haman, a valuable advisor to the king. After this incident, Haman told the King to get rid of every Jew in their kingdom. Horrified by this prospect, Mordecai insisted that Esther talk to the king because he could not do so himself. Esther took the risk and told her uncle to inform the Jews that they were to fast for three days.
Esther sought refuge in God through prayer. When the time came to confront the King, however, she fainted at the sight of him. Concerned, the King asked Esther to speak. She decided to dine with both him and Haman the following evening.
That next night, Esther confidently revealed her identity. She addressed the decree that Haman had instituted about eradicating the Jewish people. The King was greatly disturbed and decided to get rid of his advisor.
The story of Queen Esther demonstrates how her trust and devotion to God aided her when it came to defending the rights of her people.
Sources
Hunt, Helen LaKelly. The Half Moon Book-Devotions on Justice and Peace.
