# Introduction to Esther

## Part 1: General Introduction

### Outline of Esther

1. King Ahasuerus sends away his wife, the queen (1:1–22)
1. Ahasuerus chooses Esther as the new queen (2:1–23)
1. Haman plots to destroy the Jews (3:1–15)
1. Mordecai asks Esther to help her people (4:1–17)
1. Esther pleads with the king for the Jews (5:1–7:10)
1. The result of Haman's plot to destroy the Jews (8:1–9:16)
1. The Feast of Purim (9:17–32)
1. Conclusion (10:1–3)
 
### What is the Book of Esther about?

The Book of Esther tells how a young Jewish woman named Esther became the queen of Persia. As queen, she worked to save all the Jews in the Persian Empire from being destroyed. 

This book ends by telling why the Jews celebrate the festival of Purim. The name "Purim" comes from the word "pur." It means "lots" or "dice." Haman, the enemy of Jews, threw dice to choose when to attack and destroy the Jews. The Jews celebrate Purim to remember how Yahweh rescued his people from being destroyed.

### How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators can use the traditional title of this book, which is "The Book of Esther" or just "Esther." Or they can choose a clearer title, such as "The Book About Esther."