3. Read Esther 1:1–9. The book of Esther begins with several feasts, which is a theme that will continue throughout the book. The chart provides infor- mation about the feasts given by King Ahasuerus and Queen Vashti. What other details do you note?
Feast 1
Feast 2
Vashti’s Feast
Who was invited?
The king’s officials and servants; the army of Persia and Media; the nobles and governors of the 127 provinces were present. (vv. 1–3)
For all the people, from the least to the greatest, who were in the citadel of Susa (v. 5)
Women (v. 9)
Where was it held?
Susa
Enclosed garden of the king’s palace
Royal palace of King Ahasuerus
How long did it last?
180 days
7 days
The same 7 days
Any other details?
4. What personal and/or political motives do you think may have been in play behind the feasts given by King Ahasuerus?
136 | Lesson 13
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