The Book of Esther: Chapter One – A King’s Extravagance and a Queen’s Defiance

Chapter one of the book of Esther introduces us to the opulent world of King Ahasuerus, ruler of the vast Persian Empire. It’s a world of lavish feasts, stunning palaces, and absolute power. But even in the midst of all this splendour, a seed of conflict is sown.

Overview

• The Lavish Feasts: King Ahasuerus throws two extravagant feasts, one for his nobles and officials, and another for all the people in his capital city. These feasts last for months, showcasing the king’s wealth and power.
• Queen Vashti’s Refusal: On the seventh day of the second feast, the king, merry with wine, commands Queen Vashti to appear before him and his guests to display her beauty. But Vashti refuses, angering the king and his advisers.
• The King’s Anger: The king’s advisers fear that Vashti’s disobedience will set a bad example for the other women in the kingdom. They suggest that the king depose Vashti and find a new queen.

Study Questions

1. Excess and Power: How does the description of the feasts and the king’s palace reflect the excess and power of the Persian Empire?
2. Vashti’s Defiance: Why do you think Queen Vashti refused the king’s command? Was she right or wrong to do so?
3. Consequences of Disobedience: What were the consequences of Vashti’s disobedience? Why did the king’s advisers think it was such a big deal?
4. Gender Roles: What does this chapter suggest about the role of women in ancient Persia?
5. Foreshadowing: How might the events in this chapter foreshadow later events in the book of Esther?

Chapter one sets the stage for the rest of the story. It introduces us to the powerful king, the defiant queen, and the advisers who will play key roles in the unfolding drama. It also hints at the themes of power, disobedience, and the role of women, which will be explored further in the rest of the book.