Key-word, “Providence;” Key-verse, 4:14.-This book is the romance of providence. Esther, a Jewish captive, became bride of the Persian king, Ahasuerus; and came to the kingdom for a critical time. Haman’s wicked plot to destroy her people, baffled by her bold intercession, reacted to his own ruin. The Feast of Purim (the Lot), instituted by the Jews in memory of this deliverance, is still kept. As Ruth represents the Gentiles coming to the church, Esther illustrates the church going to the Gentiles. [p. 35] HBS 38.2