Esther, the heroine of the biblical Book of Esther, was married to King Ahasuerus of Persia when she died. The biblical narrative clearly states that Ahasuerus, the Persian king, fell in love with Esther and married her, making her his queen. There is no biblical record suggesting that she was divorced or remarried after her union with Ahasuerus, implying her marital status remained unchanged until her passing.
Understanding Esther's Marriage
Esther, originally known by her Hebrew name Hadassah, rose to prominence within the Achaemenid Empire. Her story is a testament to courage and faith, particularly her role in saving the Jewish people from a plot to destroy them.
- The King's Choice: King Ahasuerus, often identified by scholars with Xerxes I, chose Esther to be his queen after his previous queen, Vashti, was deposed. This event is central to the Book of Esther.
- A Royal Union: Their marriage established Esther as the Queen of Persia, a position of significant influence. This union is the foundational relationship described in the biblical text.
Key Figures in the Narrative
The Book of Esther revolves around several pivotal characters, but the marital relationship between Esther and King Ahasuerus is central to the plot's development and resolution.
| Figure | Role in the Narrative |
|---|---|
| Esther | The Jewish queen of Persia, protagonist, wife of Ahasuerus. |
| Ahasuerus | The Persian King who marries Esther. |
| Mordecai | Esther's cousin and guardian, who advises her. |
| Haman | The antagonist, a high-ranking official who plots against the Jews. |
The Legacy of Queen Esther
While the exact details of Esther's death are not provided in the biblical account, her life as the wife of King Ahasuerus is extensively documented within the Book of Esther. Her story culminates in the establishment of the Jewish holiday of Purim, commemorating the deliverance of the Jewish people. Her marriage to Ahasuerus was not merely a personal union but a strategic alliance that played a crucial role in the survival of her people.
For more details on Esther's life and her role as queen, you can refer to the Esther Wikipedia page.
