Famous Women

Queen Esther

She is one of the saints of the Old Testament, and one of the divine books bears her name.

She was very beautiful, indeed she was the most beautiful young woman of her time,

to the extent that King Ahasuerus chose her to be his wife,

appointed her queen, placed the royal crown upon her, and favored her above all his other women.

She could have enjoyed this great position, this love,

and all the splendor of the king, without involving herself in any problems…

She could have forgotten her people and their troubles, and focused all her effort on preserving the king’s favor and love…

But when she found her people in distress, she took the risk and entered into the matter,

to save the people even if it meant that she would perish… And she spoke her well-known words:

“Fast on my behalf, and neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day.

I and my maids will fast likewise. Then I will go to the king, contrary to the law (contrary to custom); and if I perish, I perish….”

Thus she took the risk, violated the established rules, sacrificing everything

for the sake of her people. She did not rely on her beauty, her intelligence, or the king’s love for her,

but rather she fasted, her maids fasted with her, and all the people fasted with her…

And the Lord answered. Esther succeeded and saved an entire people.

And the Lord granted her favor in the eyes of the king. The whole matter was completely reversed.

Esther represents the person who holds a great public office and does not become centered on himself, forgetting his people!

She also represents boldness, wisdom, devotion, and courage.

A salute to this great and successful woman.

An article by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III – El-Keraza Magazine – Eighth Year (Issue Thirty-Six) – 9-9-1977

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