Christ, in the book of Esther.

The Book of Esther, one of the books of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament, is unique in that it does not mention God directly at any point, making it one of only two books in the Bible with this characteristic (the other being the Song of Solomon). Because of this, discussing the portrayal of Christ directly from the text of Esther is not feasible, as neither Christ nor any direct messianic prophecies or figures are explicitly mentioned within its chapters. However, it is possible to discuss the typological or thematic reflections of Christ-like figures or concepts within the narrative, as seen through Christian interpretive traditions.

The Book of Esther is set in the Persian Empire and revolves around a Jewish woman named Esther who becomes queen of Persia and saves her people from a planned genocide. Esther is a story of courage, faith, and deliverance, themes that are echoed in the broader Christian theological narrative, including those associated with Christ.

In Christian typology, Esther can be seen as a type of Christ in her role as an intercessor and savior for her people. Typology in Christian theology is a method of interpreting Biblical events, persons, and rituals as foreshadowing or prefiguring Christ’s life and work. In this sense, Esther’s brave intercession with King Ahasuerus to save the Jewish people from the evil plans of Haman parallels Christ’s intercession on behalf of humanity. Just as Esther risked her life to approach the king without being summoned (which could have led to her death), Christ sacrificed His life to bring salvation to mankind.

Further, Mordecai, Esther’s cousin and guardian, also plays a significant role in the Book of Esther and can be viewed through a typological lens as a Christ figure. Mordecai’s steadfastness, wisdom, and rise to power reflect divine providence and justice, qualities that are central to the portrayal of Christ in the New Testament. Mordecai’s refusal to bow to Haman and his later exaltation can be seen as prefiguring Christ's rejection by earthly powers and His ultimate glorification by God.

Moreover, the themes of deliverance and reversal of fortune in the Book of Esther resonate with the Christian message of redemption and the subversion of worldly expectations through Christ. The dramatic turn of events where the Jews are saved and their enemies are defeated is reminiscent of the Christian narrative of resurrection where death is defeated and life is restored.

In summary, while Christ is not mentioned in the Book of Esther, the story contains elements and themes that can be interpreted through a Christian lens as foreshadowing Christ’s work and character. Esther as an intercessor and protector of her people, and Mordecai’s role as a wise and just leader, can both be viewed typologically as Christ figures, embodying qualities and enacting roles that reflect Christ’s mission as understood in Christian theology. These interpretations, however, are derived from a Christian exegetical tradition and are not explicit in the text itself.