Esther 2:7
French (La Bible expliquée)
Mardochée avait adopté sa cousine Hadassa, qu'on appelait Esther. La jeune fille avait perdu ses parents et, depuis leur mort, Mardochée l'élevait. Son corps était splendide et sa beauté remarquable. Mardochée est un descendant de Quich, père de Saül (1 Sam 9.1) et de Chiméi, du même clan que Saül (2 Sam 16.5). Cette origine a son importance, tout comme celle de Haman, descendant d'Agag (3.1), qui fut roi des Amalécites (1 Sam 15.8) et ennemi juré d'Israël (Ex 17.8-16 Deut 25.17-19). En effet, le rôle de Mardochée sera de racheter la faute de son ancêtre Saül, qui épargna la vie du roi Agag au lieu d'obéir quand Dieu lui avait ordonné de le tuer (1 Sam 15). Vu sous cet angle, la rivalité entre Haman et Mardochée se transforme en conflit entre deux groupes, les Perses et les Juifs, qui doit faire éclater la fidélité de Mardochée à Dieu et à son peuple. Esther porte deux noms. Le premier, Hadassa, est son nom juif. Il signifie « myrte ». Le second, Esther, est le nom par lequel elle est appelée dans le monde païen. Il peut dériver du persan stara, « étoile » ou du nom de la déesse babylonienne Ichtar.
What Does This Mean?
This verse tells us about Esther, who was raised by her cousin Mordecai after her parents died. Esther is described as beautiful, and Mordecai cared for her like his own daughter.
Explained for Children
Imagine if your uncle took care of you after your parents couldn't be there anymore. That's what happened to Esther. Mordecai, her uncle, made sure she was safe and loved her like a daughter.
Historical Background
The book of Esther was likely written in the fifth century BC, possibly by an unknown author. It was written to explain the origins of the Jewish holiday Purim and to give hope to the Jews in exile.
Living It Out Today
In a modern scenario, if someone loses their parents, a relative stepping in to care for them is a beautiful act of love and responsibility. This is similar to the selfless act of Mordecai adopting Esther.
Topics
adoptioncaring for orphansfaithfulnessfamily bondsbeautyprotection
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Esther also called Hadassah?
Hadassah was Esther's original Hebrew name, while Esther is a Persian name she likely adopted after moving to Persia. Both names mean 'myrtle', a symbol of beauty and righteousness.
What does it mean that Esther was 'fair and beautiful'?
In the context of the book of Esther, her beauty was a significant factor that led to her becoming queen, highlighting God's providence in her circumstances.
How did Mordecai take care of Esther?
Mordecai provided Esther with a home, likely took care of her education, and ensured her well-being, just as a parent would, showing his deep commitment to her.
What can we learn about adoption from this verse?
This verse teaches us about the importance of caring for orphans and providing a loving home, showing that adoption can lead to great things, as seen in Esther's story.