Why doesn’t the book of Esther mention God?

Answer

The book of Esther is unique in several ways. One distinguishing characteristic is that it is the only biblical book that does not mention God by name. This fact has led some to question its place in the biblical canon, but, in reality, the absence of God’s name aligns perfectly with the book’s theme.

Here are some reasons why God’s name may not have been explicitly mentioned in Esther: first, one focus of Esther seems to be on how God works behind the scenes. The book of Esther does not recount any miracles or direct interventions of God. In Esther’s narrative, the Lord redeems His people through the faith and courage of one strategically positioned woman and her cousin. Simultaneously, events unfold behind the scenes to bring about the ultimate outcome.

Additionally, it is conceivable that God is not directly referenced in Esther due to the circumstances surrounding its writing. According to Jewish tradition, Mordecai is credited as the author. If Mordecai indeed penned the book while in Persia serving under King Ahasuerus (or Xerxes), he may have chosen not to overtly credit God for the Jewish people’s victory. This decision could have been made to better suit the polytheistic environment of Susa, thus ensuring his safety from the king or other adversaries while still conveying the story of God’s intervention through Queen Esther.

Another focal point in Esther is the theme of fasting. The book features six distinct feasts, which starkly contrast Esther’s decision to fast for three days before approaching the king regarding the salvation of the Jewish people. She also urged other Jews to join her: “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do.” «Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also an

My maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish.” , (Esther 4:16). It is understood that fasting is done before God to request His help. Therefore, even though God’s name is not directly mentioned, Esther is participating in a religious observance intended to seek God’s mercy.

Finally, the book of Esther may not mention God because the focus is on God’s providence. Mordecai states in Esther 4:14, “If you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” In his rhetorical question, Mordecai hints at divine sovereignty without explicitly naming it. The underlying principle is that God positions individuals in specific places at particular times to fulfill His specific plans.

The book of Esther may not explicitly mention God, yet it unmistakably reveals God’s work. While His name is not explicitly written in the book, His fingerprints, so to speak, are evident throughout. The series of coincidences, remarkable reversals, and poetic justice that led to the salvation of the Jews in Persia all bear witness to the presence of God.