How could Esther participate in a pagan beauty contest?

PROBLEM: It is evident that Esther was selected by God as His instrument to deliver Israel from evil at the appointed time (Esther 4:14). However, as a devout Jew, how could Esther take part in a pagan pageant and then become part of the harem of King Xerxes?

SOLUTION: First, it is not clear that Esther had a choice as far as being part of the display of beautiful women before the king. According to Esther 2:8, Esther was “taken to the king’s palace.” This seems to imply that Esther had no choice in the matter, but was drafted into the service of the king.

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