The Book of Esther 📖 JPS Jewish Publication Society Translation Full Audio Holy Bible Reading

This is a reading from the Jewish Publication Society Translation of The Book of Esther. This tells the captivating story of a Jewish woman named Esther who rises to become queen of Persia and, through her courage and intelligence, saves her people from a plot to annihilate them. The narrative begins with King Ahasuerus of Persia holding a grand banquet. His queen, Vashti, refuses to appear at his command, leading to her removal. To find a new queen, a search is conducted, and Esther, a young Jewish woman raised by her cousin Mordecai, is chosen for her beauty and grace.

Esther keeps her Jewish identity a secret at Mordecai's advice. Meanwhile, Mordecai uncovers a plot to assassinate the king and informs Esther, who reports it to the king, saving his life. The king's advisor, Haman, becomes enraged when Mordecai refuses to bow to him and devises a plan to exterminate all Jews in the kingdom. He convinces the king to issue a decree ordering their destruction.

Mordecai urges Esther to intercede with the king, warning her that she too will perish if she remains silent. Esther bravely approaches the king, risking her life, and invites him and Haman to a banquet. At the banquet, she reveals her Jewish heritage and exposes Haman's plot. The king is furious and orders Haman to be executed on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai.

The king then grants the Jews the right to defend themselves against their enemies. On the appointed day, the Jews successfully fend off their attackers. In celebration of their deliverance, the festival of Purim is established, commemorating the reversal of fortune that allowed the Jewish people to survive and thrive.

The Book of Esther highlights themes of courage, faith, and the hidden hand of divine providence, showing how Esther's bravery and Mordecai's wisdom lead to the salvation of their people.