Introduction to the Book of Esther

The Book of Esther in Greek is a translation, adaptation, and expansion of The Book of Esther in Hebrew. The chain of events is much the same, but there an many variations in text, including different proper names and a strong religious tone. The six additions, shown as Chapters A—F in this translation, provide a different introduction and conclusion, introduce documents in an official style and emphasize the religious elements by the addition of prayers and accounts of how they were answered.

Outline of Contents

1. Esther becomes queen A.1—2.23
2. Haman’s plot against the Jews 3.1—5.14
3. The kings of Judah 11.1—30.12
4. The Jews defeat their enemies’ 8.1—F.10
5. Postscript

Source:

The Book of Esther. (1972). In Catholic (Ed.), May they be one Bible: Good news translation (2013 ed., p. 613). Bible Society.