The setting of the book of Esther is the city of Susa in fifth century BC Persia (modern-day Iran). The empire consisted of roughly 44% of the world’s population. Xerxes, the king, had a thirst for wine, a disregard for women, and convictions that were prone to change with the weather.
Haman is the villain in our story. He had the ear of the king, the swagger of a pimp, and the compassion of Hitler. Haman told the king in Esther 3:8-9, “There is a certain people scattered and dispersed among the people…of your kingdom…let a decree be written that they be destroyed.”
Now these “certain people” were the Hebrew nation God preserved. They were a chosen race through whom God would redeem mankind. He had something special in store for them, just like he does for you today.
