(story told in the book of Esther)
King Xerxes, also known as Ahasuerus, ruled the vast Persian Empire, stretching from India to Egypt. He was powerful and wealthy, known for his grand feasts and majestic palace in Susa. At the beginning of the book of Esther, Xerxes hosted a lavish banquet to show off his kingdom’s greatness. But when Queen Vashti refused his command to appear before the guests, Xerxes became angry and removed her as queen, setting the stage for a new chapter in Persia’s history.
After some time, a search was made for a new queen, and a young Jewish woman named Esther was chosen for her beauty and grace. Though Xerxes did not know it, God had placed Esther in this position to save her people. Xerxes admired Esther and made her his queen, unaware of the danger that would soon threaten her and her nation.
When Haman, one of Xerxes’ top officials, persuaded him to issue a decree to destroy the Jews, Xerxes agreed without realizing what he had done. But God’s plan was still at work. When Esther courageously revealed to the king that she was Jewish and that Haman’s plot would destroy her people, Xerxes was deeply troubled.
Realizing the truth, Xerxes acted quickly. He ordered Haman to be executed and granted the Jews permission to defend themselves. What began as a decree of destruction turned into a great victory and celebration for God’s people.
Though Xerxes was not a man of faith, his story shows how God can use anyone—even a powerful, imperfect king—to accomplish His divine purposes. Through Xerxes, God’s plan for deliverance and justice unfolded in a remarkable way.