OUTLINE OF ESTHER

1. Jews at the Persian court (1:1-2:23)
   Vashti removed by Ahasuerus (1:1-22)
   Esther chosen as queen (2:1-18)
   Mordecai saves the king's life (2:19-23)

2. The threat to the Jewish people (3:1-5:14)
   Haman's plot ot destroy the Jews (3:1-15)
   The Jews fear annihilation (4:1-3)
   Mordecai alerts Esther (4:4-17)
   Esther risks her life (5:1-14)

3. The triumph of the Jews (6:1--10:3)
   Mordecai receives royal honor (6:1-11)
   Esther intercedes -- Haman hanged (6:12-7:10)
   Mordecai promoted (8:1-17)
   Revenge by the Jews (9:1-15)
   The feast of Purim (9:16-32)
   Mordecai continues in high honor (10:1-3)