Feast Day: July 1
Esther The Queen, also known as Edissa, was a significant historical figure and the protagonist of the Book of Esther in the Hebrew Bible. She was the Queen of Persia and the wife of Assuerus, who is commonly identified as Xerxes, reigning from 485 to 465 B.C. Esther hailed from the tribe of Benjamin, born as the daughter of Abihail.
However, her life took a different turn when she was adopted by her paternal uncle, Mardochai. Despite her humble origins, Esther possessed exceptional beauty, which caught the attention of Assuerus. As a result, he chose her to be his queen over his former wife, Vasthi, who had been divorced.
The position of queen granted Esther immense power and influence within the Persian court. She skillfully used her position to protect her own people, the Jews, from the nefarious schemes of Aman, a high-ranking royal favorite. Esther's courage and diplomacy played a crucial role in preventing the annihilation of the Jewish population.
The festival of Purim, still observed by Jews today, was established to celebrate their deliverance thanks to Esther's intervention. The events described in the Book of Esther highlight the divine providence and the importance of standing up against injustice.
Although there is no specific representation associated with Esther The Queen, numerous artistic interpretations have sprung up over the years, depicting her story through various mediums such as paintings and illustrations.
While Esther The Queen has not been officially canonized by the Catholic Church, her story remains highly revered, emphasizing her qualities of faith, bravery, and compassion. Her life serves as an inspiring example for all, demonstrating the power of conviction and the potential to make a positive impact.
For further insights into the life and legacy of Esther The Queen, readers can refer to "Our Sunday Visitor's Encyclopedia of Saints," a comprehensive resource on the lives of numerous saints, including biblical figures like Esther.
Please note that the provided video playlist and image links may offer additional visual and audio material related to Esther The Queen's story.