Bible Study

The Book of Esther — Bible Study 2
Expository Commentary on the Book of Esther
God Who Revealed His Sovereignty Through Banquets
The Book of Esther is a wonderful example showing that God can exercise His sovereignty through any event.
In the Book of Esther, the theme of “banquets” (feasts) is used extensively and in a very deliberate manner. Among the books of the Bible, Esther stands out as one in which banquets are repeatedly used as the central framework for the movement of the story.
The major banquets found in the Book of Esther are:
Ahasuerus’ 180-day banquet — Esther 1:3-4
The 7-day royal feast — Esther 1:5
Vashti’s banquet for women — Esther 1:9
Esther’s coronation banquet — Esther 2:18
Haman and the king’s drinking banquet — Esther 3:15
Esther’s first banquet — Esther 5:4
Esther’s second banquet — Esther 7:1
The Jews’ celebration banquet — Esther 8:17
The Feast of Purim — Esther 9:17-19,22
Because of this, some Bible scholars even refer to Esther as:
“The Book of Banquets.”
What is even more important is that these banquets are not merely social events; each banquet becomes a turning point in the story. Behind them, we can clearly see the hidden workings of God. Royal politics, human pride, fear, deliverance, and judgment are all revealed within the setting of these banquets.
Although the name of God is never directly mentioned in the Book of Esther, the entire book powerfully reveals His hidden sovereignty. Especially through these various banquets, we can see how God sovereignly turns events according to His purpose.
In the first chapter, during the setting of the three banquets, Queen Vashti was removed from her position. This did not happen by accident; according to God’s sovereignty, it took place in order to prepare the way for Esther to come to the throne.
1. Esther 2:18 — The King’s Banquet
When King Ahasuerus crowned Esther as queen, he held a great banquet.
“Then the king made a great feast unto all his princes and his servants, even Esther’s feast.”
The Sovereignty Revealed in This Banquet
Esther was just an ordinary Jewish orphan girl. From a human perspective, this may appear to be nothing more than the result of a beauty contest. But God was already preparing beforehand to save His people.
The removal of Vashti and the selection of Esther were not accidents. God had already placed Esther on the throne in preparation for the future defeat of Haman’s plot.
The Lesson Seen Here
God quietly arranges present events in preparation for future deliverance.
2. Esther 3:15 — A Banquet in the Midst of Conspiracy
After Haman obtained the decree to destroy the Jews:
“And the king and Haman sat down to drink; but the city Shushan was perplexed.”
This presents a shocking contrast.
The Sovereignty Revealed in This Banquet
While earthly rulers were drinking and celebrating, God was silently preparing justice.
It appeared as though the destruction of the Jews had been determined. Yet at the very same moment, God was already arranging Haman’s downfall.
Here we see a great spiritual truth:
Even when people think their plans have completely succeeded, the final word belongs to God. He remains in complete control of everything.
3. Esther 8:17 — A Banquet Where Sorrow Became Joy
After Mordecai was exalted and a new decree was given for the Jews:
“The Jews had light, and gladness, and joy, and honour.”
The Sovereignty Revealed in This Event
A people under a sentence of death received life. Mourning was turned into celebration.

This demonstrates that God is able to change situations overnight.

The Important Lesson Here
God is the One who turns the sorrow of His people into joy.
4. Esther 9:17,19 — The Feast of Purim.

After the Jews were delivered from their enemies, they celebrated with a feast.
The Significance of This Banquet
This was not merely a national celebration. It was a memorial of God’s hidden protection.
Ezekiel, [18-05-2026 20:04]
The word “Pur” means “lot.” Haman cast lots, but it was God who determined the outcome.
God’s Sovereignty Is Clearly Seen Here
Man may plan. Satan may scheme. Political powers may stand against God’s people. But God’s purpose will never fail.
Therefore, the Feast of Purim became a powerful testimony:
“God is the One who secretly preserves His people.”
The Overall Message of These Banquets
The banquets in the Book of Esther are not merely celebrations; they are stages upon which God’s sovereignty is revealed.

Sovereignty Revealed

Esther 2:18
Esther’s coronation banquet
God prepares deliverance beforehand

Esther 3:15
Haman’s banquet
God controls even the plans of the wicked.

Esther 8:17
Banquet of joy
God turns sorrow into gladness.

Esther 9:17,19
Feast of Purim
God preserves His people and grants them victory.

Thus, all the banquets in the Book of Esther together proclaim one central truth:
“Even when God works invisibly, He remains in complete control.”