Girl · Persian · Old Testament

Esther

ES-ter · from Ester · means “Star”

Esther is a Persian name meaning "star," also connected to the Hebrew name Hadassah, meaning myrtle. A Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, Esther became queen of Persia and risked her life to save her people from destruction, famously encouraged, "for such a time as this" (Esther 4:14).

“And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”

The story behind the name

Esther, also known by her Hebrew name Hadassah, was orphaned young and raised by her cousin Mordecai in Persia. When the king searched for a new queen, Esther was chosen, though she kept her Jewish identity hidden at Mordecai's instruction.

When an official named Haman plotted to destroy the Jewish people throughout the empire, Mordecai urged Esther to appeal to the king, reminding her that she may have come to her royal position for exactly this moment (Esther 4:14). Esther responded with a fast, careful planning, and remarkable courage, approaching the king uninvited at the risk of her own life.

Her wisdom and bravery led to the reversal of Haman's plot and the deliverance of her people, a rescue still celebrated in the Jewish feast of Purim. A daughter named Esther carries a name of quiet courage, showing what one faithful, well-timed act of bravery can accomplish.

Middle names that sing with Esther

Chosen for rhythm and meanings that speak to each other.

You might also love