Introduction -- The nature of the book of Esther -- Origin and date -- Historical background and setting -- Canonical status -- Literary issues -- Textual issues -- Theology and purpose -- Analysis -- Commentary.

The place: Persia. The time: fifth-century BC. The Jews were threatened with genocide. A decree ordered the extermination of young and old, women and children. The book of Esther describes how this crisis was averted through the bravery of Esther, the wisdom of Mordecai and the unity of the Jewish people. It also revealsthe God who quietly and soemtimes unexpectedly works behind the scenes to order the events of our lives. - Publisher.