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The Beth Moore Esther form is a comprehensive resource designed to explore the themes and characters of the Book of Esther, a significant text in the Hebrew Bible. This study guide, published by LifeWay Press, emphasizes the historical and cultural context of Esther, a story set during the Jewish Diaspora. One of its unique features is the absence of direct references to God, prompting readers to consider the underlying divine providence that influences human events. The form encourages participants to reflect on the challenges women face, particularly in a society where they often find themselves overshadowed by others. It also highlights the concept of human responsibility, illustrating how individual actions contribute to a larger divine plan. Throughout the study, participants will engage with character sketches of key figures, including Esther and her cousin Mordecai, while exploring their personal journeys and the implications of their choices. This form not only provides a framework for understanding the text but also offers hope and insight into the complexities of faith and identity.

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esther

it’s tough being a woman

BETH MOORE

Published by LifeWay Press®. ©2008 Beth Moore. Permission is granted to store, print, and distribute this document for its intended use.

Distribution for sale is strictly prohibited. Address requests for additional permissions in writing to Leadership and Adult Publishing;

One LifeWay Plaza; Nashville, TN 37234-0175.

esther

viewer guide y introduction

The Background of Esther in the Hebrew Bible and Tradition

The Book of Esther is also known as the Megillah .

Historical Background

Like the Book of Daniel, Esther is a Diaspora story.

The Uniqueness of the Book of Esther

1. The total

absence

 

of any

reference

to God

Why study the Book of Esther?

 

 

 

• It’s part of

God’s

 

Word .

 

 

 

• Based on Psalm 138:2b God’s name may not be in

it

,

but

it

is

on

it .

 

 

 

• It offers tremendous

 

hope

.

 

 

• It extends a vital perspective on the

providence

of _

God .

Merriam Webster’s deinition of providence: “God conceived as the

power

 

sustaining

and

guiding

human

 

destiny .” Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary adds, “In so doing [in His providence] God attends not only to apparently momentous events and people but also to those that seem both

mundane and trivial . … Indeed, so all encompassing is God’s attention to events within creation that nothing …

happens by chance .”

8

Ephesians 1:11—Even when we’re blind to the evidence, God

works

out

everything

in conformity with the

purpose

of His will.”

 

 

Philippians 2:13—Godworks__

in

you to will and to act

according to His good _______purpose______.”

 

2. The title bears a ___ woman’s___ ___ name___.

Throughout the next nine weeks we’ll consider different scenarios to underscore the concept captured in our study’s title.

Scenario #1

It’s tough being a woman in another woman’s shadow .

3. The God-ordained emphasis on __human __

responsibility ____

According to Word Biblical Commentary, the inspired author of Esther

“lays all the stress on the human

contribution to the

divine-human synergism ” [combined or shared energy].

introduction

Video sessions are available for download at www.lifeway.com/women

9

 

 

esther 2:1-7

viewer guide y session one

Today’s session introduces our protagonist and most vital supporting actor. We will use these important “first mentions” to help us draw character sketches of each based on what we know and what we also might imagine.

Part One

A Character Sketch

of Mordecai

• He was a

Jew

(6:10; 8:7; 9:31; 10:3; 5:13).

 

“Its significance is indicated by the fact that this is the

only

time

in the whole Old Testament that a

native

member

of the community of Israel is named and identified by a gentilic.”1

• He was an

exile

.

 

 

Esther 2:6 “employs the root of the word for exile (glh) in four distinct

constructions, lest the full measure of the Jewish plight be overlooked.”2

View the repetition in the King James Version: “Who had been

carried

away

from Jerusalem with the

captivity

which

had been

carried

away with Jeconiah king of Judah whom

Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried

away .”

• He was a sudden

parent

to his cousin

.

32

Part Two

A Character Sketch of Esther

• She was named

Hadassah

.

 

 

This Jewish name comes from the word for “ myrtle

 

and means “

fragrance

 

.”3

 

 

• She was

orphaned

.

 

 

 

• She was

brought

 

up by her male

cousin

.

• She was

lovely .

 

 

 

 

Scenario #2

It’s tough being a woman in a

 

world

where

beauty

is a

treatment

 

.

 

• She was also known

as

Esther

.

This Persian name means “ star

.”

 

Perhaps even more significantly, “the name Esther comes from the

verbal root in Hebrew str, meaning ‘to

conceal

.’ ”4

esther 2:1-7 W e e k 1 • A R o y a l M e s s

Video sessions are available for download at www.lifeway.com/women

33

 

 

esther 3:1-5

viewer guide y session two

Scenario #3

It’s tough being a woman in a mean

world .

1.

Meanness

always has a

history

.

Consider the history of these two rivals.

 

Mordecai,

 

 

Haman,

a

Jew

from the tribe of

 

a presumed Amalekite and descendant

 

Benjamin and a descendant of

 

of

Agag

, their king during

 

King

Saul

 

 

Saul’s

reign

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The disobeyed instruction:

1 Samuel 15:10-23,30

The revealed

explanation : Deuteronomy 25:17-19

(Referring to Ex. 17:8-16.)

56

Exodus 17:16—“ The

LORD

will be at war against the

Amalekites from generation to generation.”

2.

Meanness

perceives a threat (2 Cor. 10:12).

3.

Meanness

catches like a

virus

.

The word Agag is believed to be related to an Assyrian term (agagu)

that means “to be

powerful

, vehement,

angry

.”5

The name “Haman” sounds similar to the Hebrew word for

wrath (Hebrew, heman).6 (Compare Prov. 22:24-25.)

Consider the following quote

“Surely as Christians we must recognize the ‘

spirit

_ of

Haman ’ not only in our world but

 

within

ourselves

.”7

 

4. Meanness

is

curable

(Rom. 12:17-21).

esther 3:1-5 W e e k 2 • A C o n t e s t f o r a Q u e e n

Video sessions are available for download at www.lifeway.com/women

57

 

 

esther 4:1-14

viewer guide y session three

The Human Dilemma of Destiny

Many of the biblical figures who fulfilled their God-appointed

destinies shared some of Esther’s basic inner conflicts.

Consider the dilemma of destiny from a human perspective:

1. The

poor

timing

. Reflect on Esther 4:11b.

2. The

unreasonable

expectation

.

Scenario #4

It’s tough being a woman

thrown

a

giant - size

weight .

 

80

3. The

 

risky

 

identification

.

 

• Remember, destiny appoints

 

one

__ but affects __

__.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

many

 

• The

revelation

 

of a person’s destiny always demands

a revelation of the

person

 

. Consider the wording “if you

remain silent at this time.” The Hebrew word translated silent in this

verse can also be translated

 

conceal

.

 

4. The

unanswered

question

.

 

(See verse 14.)

 

 

 

 

“The sentence contains a igure of speech known as aposiopesis—a

sudden

breaking

off

of what was being said or written

so that the mind is more impressed by what is

left

unsaid ,

it being too wonderful, solemn or awful to verbalize. In English

this igure is sometimes called the ‘sudden

silence

.’ ”8

esther 4:1-14 W e e k 3 • A R a g i n g P a s s i o n f o r H o n o r

Video sessions are available for download at www.lifeway.com/women

81

 

 

esther 4:11-17

viewer guide y session four

Part One

Our protagonist made three shifts that moved her

from self-preservation to brave determination.

1. Esther had a

choice

.

 

 

“She [Esther] had to

overcome

herself

in order to

do what God had created her and positioned her to do.”9

2. Esther faced the fear .

Consider general fears, then our context’s specific fear:

• Facing any ___fear

And if ____________________________, then ___________.

[your answers here]

104

Form Specifications

Fact Name Fact Description
Publication Details The Beth Moore Esther form is published by LifeWay Press® and was released in 2008. Permission is granted for personal use, but not for sale.
Content Overview The form includes a viewer guide that introduces the Book of Esther, highlighting its unique aspects, including the absence of direct references to God.
Character Insights It features character sketches of key figures, Mordecai and Esther, emphasizing their backgrounds and roles within the narrative.
Study Purpose The study aims to provide hope and a deeper understanding of God's providence, even in the absence of overt references to Him in the text.

Beth Moore Esther: Usage Guidelines

Filling out the Beth Moore Esther form is a straightforward process. This form will guide you through various aspects of the study, helping you engage with the material effectively. Follow the steps below to complete the form accurately.

  1. Start by downloading the Beth Moore Esther form from the provided link.
  2. Read through the introductory section carefully to understand the context.
  3. Fill in your personal information, including your name, email address, and any other required details.
  4. Review the session topics listed on the form. Make a note of the sessions you plan to attend.
  5. Answer any questions related to your previous experience with the study or similar materials.
  6. Provide feedback or comments in the designated section, if applicable.
  7. Double-check all your entries for accuracy.
  8. Save the completed form to your device.
  9. Submit the form according to the instructions provided, whether by email or through an online portal.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the Beth Moore Esther form?

The Beth Moore Esther form is a resource designed to accompany the study of the Book of Esther, which is part of the Hebrew Bible. This form includes viewer guides, character sketches, and session outlines that help participants explore the themes and lessons within the text. It is published by LifeWay Press and is intended for educational and group study purposes.

Why is the Book of Esther significant?

The Book of Esther holds a unique place in the Bible. Notably, it does not mention God directly, yet it conveys a powerful message about His providence. The story illustrates how human actions can align with divine purpose, emphasizing that nothing happens by chance. This perspective offers hope and insight into the complexities of life, particularly for women navigating their roles in society.

What themes are explored in the study of Esther?

Throughout the study, several key themes emerge. One prominent theme is the struggle of women in various contexts, such as being overshadowed by others. The study also highlights the importance of human responsibility in achieving divine outcomes. Participants will reflect on their own experiences and draw parallels to the lives of Esther and Mordecai, enhancing their understanding of these timeless lessons.

How long does the study last?

The study is structured to take place over nine weeks. Each week focuses on different scenarios and character sketches, allowing participants to delve deeply into the text and its implications. This format encourages thoughtful discussion and personal reflection, making it suitable for both individual and group study.

Are there any supplementary materials available?

Yes, video sessions are available for download at www.lifeway.com/women. These videos complement the written materials and provide additional insights into the themes and characters of the Book of Esther. They can be a valuable resource for enhancing group discussions and personal study.

Can the materials be shared or sold?

The materials are intended for personal and educational use only. While permission is granted to store, print, and distribute the document for its intended purpose, distribution for sale is strictly prohibited. For any additional permissions, individuals should contact Leadership and Adult Publishing at LifeWay Press.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many individuals fail to fill out all required fields on the form. Omitting essential details can delay processing or lead to rejection of the submission.

  2. Incorrect Formatting: Some people do not follow the specified formatting guidelines. This includes issues like using the wrong font size or style, which can make the form difficult to read.

  3. Failure to Review: A common mistake is not reviewing the completed form before submission. Errors in spelling or grammar may undermine the professionalism of the application.

  4. Ignoring Instructions: Participants often overlook specific instructions provided in the form. This can include details about submission deadlines or additional documents that may be required.

Documents used along the form

When engaging with the Beth Moore Esther form, several other documents may be necessary to enhance understanding and facilitate discussions. Each of these forms serves a unique purpose, contributing to a comprehensive exploration of the themes presented in the study. Below is a list of commonly associated documents.

  • Discussion Questions: These questions are designed to provoke thought and encourage dialogue among participants. They help to delve deeper into the themes and characters presented in the Book of Esther.
  • Character Profiles: This document outlines key figures in the story, including Esther, Mordecai, and others. It provides insights into their motivations, backgrounds, and relationships, enriching the study experience.
  • Session Outlines: These outlines summarize the main points and objectives of each session. They serve as a guide for facilitators and participants, ensuring that important themes are covered.
  • Video Session Guides: Accompanying video content often enhances the learning experience. These guides provide context and key takeaways from the video sessions, helping participants to engage with the material more effectively.
  • Prayer Journals: Encouraging personal reflection, these journals allow participants to document their thoughts, prayers, and insights throughout the study. They foster a deeper connection to the material and to God.
  • Historical Context Handouts: Understanding the historical background of the Book of Esther is crucial. These handouts provide information about the cultural and historical setting, helping participants to grasp the significance of the events described.
  • Reflection Prompts: These prompts encourage participants to think critically about their own lives in relation to the lessons from Esther. They promote personal application of the study's themes.
  • Leader's Guide: This document offers guidance for facilitators leading the study. It includes tips for managing discussions, addressing common questions, and fostering a supportive environment.

Utilizing these documents alongside the Beth Moore Esther form can significantly enrich the study experience. Each form plays a vital role in helping participants connect with the material, fostering both personal growth and community engagement.

Similar forms

The Beth Moore Esther form shares similarities with several other documents that explore biblical themes, character studies, and spiritual growth. Below is a list of six such documents, each highlighting a unique aspect that resonates with the Esther form.

  • The Book of Ruth: Like Esther, Ruth emphasizes the role of women in biblical narratives. Both stories showcase the strength and resilience of female characters facing societal challenges.
  • The Book of Daniel: Both Esther and Daniel are set during the Babylonian exile, providing insights into the lives of Jewish people in a foreign land. Each book illustrates themes of faithfulness and divine providence amidst adversity.
  • The Gospel of Luke: Luke's narrative includes significant female figures, similar to Esther. Both texts highlight the importance of women in God’s plan and their impact on history and faith.
  • The Book of Proverbs: Proverbs offers wisdom and guidance for living a righteous life, much like the lessons drawn from Esther's experiences. Both encourage readers to seek understanding and make wise choices.
  • The Book of Nehemiah: Nehemiah focuses on rebuilding and restoration, paralleling Esther's story of courage and intervention for her people. Both documents emphasize leadership and the importance of community support.
  • The Study of Proverbs 31: This study celebrates the virtuous woman, akin to Esther's portrayal as a strong female leader. Both texts encourage women to embrace their roles and responsibilities with grace and strength.

These documents collectively enrich the understanding of women's roles in biblical history and the overarching themes of faith, resilience, and divine guidance.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Beth Moore Esther form, it is essential to approach the task with care and attention to detail. Here are some guidelines to help ensure a smooth experience.

  • Do read the instructions thoroughly before starting. Understanding the requirements will help you avoid mistakes.
  • Do provide accurate personal information. Double-check your entries to ensure they are correct.
  • Do take your time. Rushing through the form can lead to errors or omissions.
  • Do use clear and legible handwriting or type your responses. This will help prevent misinterpretation.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank. Incomplete forms may be rejected or delayed.
  • Don't use abbreviations unless specified. Clarity is key in your responses.
  • Don't submit the form without a final review. Look for any mistakes or areas that may need clarification.
  • Don't forget to keep a copy of the completed form for your records. This can be helpful for future reference.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Beth Moore Esther form can lead to misunderstandings about its content and purpose. Here are eight common misconceptions:

  • The Book of Esther is solely about God’s presence. Many believe that the absence of God's name indicates a lack of divine influence. However, the study emphasizes that God's providence is evident throughout the narrative, even if not explicitly mentioned.
  • Esther is only relevant to women. While the title highlights a woman's experience, the themes of courage, responsibility, and providence apply to all individuals, regardless of gender.
  • The story of Esther lacks historical significance. Some view it merely as a fictional tale. In reality, it reflects the Jewish experience during the Diaspora and provides insights into historical events and cultural contexts.
  • Esther's beauty is her only asset. While her physical appearance is noted, the study emphasizes her intelligence, bravery, and strategic thinking as vital traits that contribute to her success.
  • The focus is solely on individual actions. The narrative illustrates a synergy between human actions and divine providence. It highlights how individual choices can align with a greater purpose.
  • Mordecai’s role is secondary. Many underestimate Mordecai's importance, viewing him as merely a supporting character. His guidance and influence are crucial to Esther's journey and the overall outcome of the story.
  • The study does not address modern issues. Some assume that the themes are outdated. However, the lessons on resilience and faith in the face of adversity remain relevant in today’s context.
  • Esther's story is only about personal triumph. While Esther's journey involves personal growth, it also speaks to broader themes of community, responsibility, and the impact of one’s actions on others.

Understanding these misconceptions can enrich one’s study of the Book of Esther and its lessons on faith, courage, and the complexities of human experience.

Key takeaways

Here are some key takeaways about filling out and using the Beth Moore Esther form:

  • Understand the Context: The Book of Esther is a unique story that highlights themes of providence and human responsibility, making it essential to grasp its historical and cultural background.
  • Character Analysis: Take time to sketch the characters, such as Mordecai and Esther. Their backgrounds and experiences provide valuable insights into the narrative.
  • Video Resources: Utilize the available video sessions for deeper understanding. These resources can enhance your study experience and provide additional context.
  • Reflect on Themes: Consider the major themes, such as the challenges faced by women and the significance of their roles. These reflections can lead to meaningful discussions.