Definition

Proper noun * Book of Esther: An Old Testament book of the Bible that narrates the story of a beautiful Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia and uses her position to prevent the massacre of her people.

Usage

• The Book of Esther is traditionally read during the Jewish festival of Purim.
• Scholars often analyze the literary themes of providence and reversal in the Book of Esther.
• The story of Queen Esther is found in the Book of Esther.

Advanced Usage

• The Esther Scroll (Megillat Esther): This is the traditional Hebrew scroll containing the text of the Book of Esther, read publicly during Purim.
• Esther narrative: Refers to the core story and its characters (Esther, Mordecai, King Ahasuerus, Haman) as presented in the biblical book.

Variants and Related Words

• Esther: The name of the central figure and protagonist of the book.
• Megillah: A Hebrew term meaning "scroll," often used specifically to refer to the Scroll of Esther.
• Purim: The Jewish holiday that commemorates the events described in the Book of Esther.

Synonyms

• Scroll of Esther
• Megillat Esther

Related Phrases

• Feast of Purim: The celebration instituted at the conclusion of the Book of Esther.
• The story of Esther: A common way to refer to the narrative content of the book.

Noun

1. an Old Testament book telling of a beautiful Jewess who became queen of Persia and saved her people from massacre