The book of Esther is a unique book in the Hebrew Bible, as it does not mention God and focuses on the story of a Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia and saves her people from genocide.

The commentary portion of the book examines the text of Esther in detail, including its literary style, themes, and symbolism. The author, Michael V. Fox, draws on a range of scholarly sources to offer insights into the historical and cultural context in which the book was written and how it would have been understood by its original audience.

The history portion of the book explores the reception and interpretation of Esther over the centuries, including its role in Jewish and Christian traditions. Fox examines how the book has been used to promote different political and religious agendas, and how its message has been adapted to different cultural contexts.

Throughout the book, Fox emphasizes the relevance of Esther's story for contemporary readers. He argues that the book's themes of courage, faith, and identity are still relevant today, and that Esther's example can inspire people to stand up for what is right in the face of adversity.

Overall, "The Book of Esther: A Commentary and History" provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of this important biblical text. Fox's scholarship and engaging writing style make the book accessible to both scholars and general readers, and his emphasis on the book's relevance for contemporary readers makes it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the biblical text and its significance.

The Book of Esther by Benjamin J. Segal was an in-depth look at the Old Testament book of Esther in the Bible. I wish I had learned Hebrew so that I could have really followed the text and translation. It was a very helpful commentary on the book of Esther. While I have read Esther many times, I never understood the book in detail until I read Benjamin Segal’s book. It’s not easy to read but it’s very worthwhile. ( )

The Book of Esther
This is a good commentary for the Book of Esther. Each chapter has the original language, a translation and then a very thorough commentary. History, culture and a detailed account of everything and everyone involved. I am doing a read the Bible in a year program and will definitely read through this again when we get to Esther.

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An important addition to the work on the Book of Esther will helpful historical information and insights.

I read through the Bible every year, using various translations and reading plans. But, other than introductions to the books and devotionals offered through my app, I don't do formal, academic Bible study. I found Benjamin J. Segal's history and commentary on The Book of Esther to be a fascinating dive into Biblical scholarship in an accessible way. He provides the original Hebrew text and his own translation along with detailed commentary.

He then engages in extensive analysis of the book including literary methods and principal purposes as well as how it came to be included in the Bible as God is not mentioned in the book at all, a fact that had never occurred to me. Segal addresses various contexts and controversies, especially related to the Jewish Diaspora.

If you are interested in the Bible and Biblical commentary, Segal would be a good starting point. I have a new appreciation for a Biblical story that I thought I understood.

I was provided with an Early Reviewer's copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. ( )