Book of Esther

The Book of Esther’s Violent Ending

When an oppressed group massacres others.

All About Esther

The book of Esther is not a historical document in the usual sense--but that doesn't undermine its importance as a religious book in the Jewish canon.

Purim 101

Purim is a joyous holiday that celebrates the saving of the Jews from a threatened massacre in ancient Persia.

Purim History

How the events chronicled in the Book of Esther inspired a holiday.

Josephus’s Version of Esther

A public relations piece for Jews?

The Book of Esther

There are many unique aspects to the biblical book that tells the Purim story.

How the Book of Esther Changed

Several Greek versions of the Purim story survive, along with the biblical text we read today.

Esther as Comedy

Can a book of the Bible be funny?