“How did I get involved in this palace intrigue? An orphan Jewish girl who never imagined meeting the king, let alone be part of his harem, is now staring death in the face to save the Jews from massacre. . “King Xerxes treats me well, but face it, he’s unpredictable.” In fact his capricious style is why she is queen.
Queen Vashti’s minor offense escalated because Xerxes allowed others to sway his thinking. Later, regretting his action, he is again persuaded by another to conduct a royal beauty pageant, requiring all beautiful virgins to participate.
Xerxes impulsive behavior is also the reason she is in this predicament today. Haman, Xerxes second in command, hates Esther’s cousin, Mordecai, because he refuses to bow. Mordecai, a Jew…show more content… Sensing a disturbance in the room, she looks up only to meet the eyes of her husband. Her heart beats faster, and then, after what seems an eternity, his scepter raises to welcome her. What relief she must have felt, and surely prayers of thanks were lifted to God as she approached the throne. Esther is not only beautiful, but smart. The fact the king is easily manipulated is a gift. After some light banter and flirtation, Esther requests a banquet with the king and politely invites Haman. The meal is pleasant, reminding King Xerxes how much he enjoys Esther’s company; however, she isn’t ready to broach him with her request just yet. “How about another banquet tomorrow?” she asks with forced bravado. Another day and Esther sat with Xerxes and hated Haman at the banquet table, but this time she complies when asked what she wants. “Your Highness, Haman misused his authority by lying to you about the Jews and ordering the annihilation of my people. I can imagine her holding her breath wondering if he caught her admission to being a Jew. As usual, he reacts impulsively and reminiscent of his anger at Vashti, Xerxes orders Haman’s execution and enacts new laws to save the
