Thursday, July 3, 2014

3 July 2014 - Esther:Jewish Queen of Persia

King Xerxes ruled over a large area, per Esther one
After three years, a massive state banquet was begun
The king called for Queen Vashti in crown to appear
When she refused, the king’s anger was quite clear
The nobles ruled that the queen had done wrong
Her punishment – banishment - would be lifelong
They said that the king should give her position
To someone better, so they held an audition

Mordecai raised Esther, “lovely in form and feature”
She was put under Hegai’s care so he could teach her
She pleased him, won favor, and was given special food
In the best part of the harem Hegai did Esther include
About her Jewish nationality or family, she did not tell
If that was known, she would have had to say farewell
The king was attracted to her more than others he had seen
As a result, he gave her a crown and made her the queen

King Xerxes gave Haman the seat of honor highest
All other officials had to kneel down at his behest
To “kneel down or pay him honor” Mordecai did refuse
Haman then decided to kill him along with all the Jews
Into Xerxes’ ears, Haman did say many a thing
Resulting in a decree being issued from the king
For the destruction of the Jews, the decree did provide
Many tons of silver, for those who helped, were set aside

Twice did Esther invite the king and Haman to dine
On the second day, they were enjoying a nice wine
The king said he would grant anything Esther did request
She said to save her people from slaughter would be best
For the name of the man responsible, King Xerxes did ask
She pointed at Haman, whose treachery she did then unmask
The king said “hang him”; it was not a slip of the tongue
From the very tall gallows he built, Haman was then hung

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