Esther, a central figure in the biblical book named after her, is portrayed as a woman of remarkable beauty and obedience. While not much is explicitly revealed about her character, we can glean certain qualities from her actions and interactions throughout the story.
Esther’s physical appearance is repeatedly emphasized, as she is described as beautiful. This outward beauty likely played a role in winning the favor of those around her, including the chief eunuch, Hegai, who oversaw the selection of women for the king’s harem. Esther’s attractiveness may have contributed to her ability to quickly gain his favor and secure her position in the palace.
Additionally, Esther is depicted as obedient. When instructed by her guardian, Mordecai, to conceal her Jewish identity, she follows his guidance without hesitation. Esther’s willingness to submit to authority is evident in her actions, and she demonstrates a level of compliance that is expected in her society.
Esther’s pliant and cooperative nature is further highlighted by her interactions with Hegai and the other women in the harem. She does not seem to cause any trouble or attract negative attention. Instead, she quietly follows the instructions given to her, which likely contributes to her success in the palace.
Furthermore, Esther’s ability to capture the heart of the king showcases her charm and charisma. When it is her turn to spend the night with Ahasuerus, she manages to captivate him to the point where he falls in love with her and decides to make her his queen. This suggests that Esther possesses qualities beyond mere physical beauty, such as intelligence, wit, and perhaps even a magnetic personality.
While the biblical account does not delve deeply into Esther’s inner thoughts or emotions, her actions and the reactions of those around her paint a picture of a woman who is not only externally attractive but also possesses a certain level of grace, obedience, and charisma. Her ability to navigate the complex and treacherous political landscape of the Persian court demonstrates her intelligence and strategic thinking.
Esther in the Bible is portrayed as a beautiful and obedient woman who quickly gains favor and captivates the heart of the king. While not much is explicitly revealed about her character, her actions and interactions suggest that she is pliant, cooperative, and possesses qualities beyond physical beauty. Her success in the palace highlights her intelligence and ability to navigate complex situations.