The answer is: He held a beauty contest for the young girls of Persia

Esther 2:2-4

In the story of Esther, we see a vivid glimpse into the opulent customs of ancient Persia—and what a strange contest it was! King Xerxes, known for his grandeur, convenes a search for a new queen by hosting what can only be described as a beauty contest. This powerful ruler, deeply embedded in the traditions of his palace, invites all eligible young girls to be fetched and presented before him. The winner? Well, she would be crowned queen, while the others would enter a harem—essentially becoming part of the king’s court, albeit unnoticed.

What’s fascinating is the profound social and cultural implications of this contest. Beauty and femininity held immense sway in ancient societies, often tying a woman's destiny to her looks rather than her intellect or kindness. Interestingly enough, the biblical portrayal of Esther reveals unusual qualities that shine brightly compared to the superficial contest surrounding her: bravery and wit.

Meanwhile, Esther had previously been raised by her cousin Mordecai, and her backstory becomes pivotal later on, revealing moments of bravery and resourcefulness that remind many believers of other courageous figures in the Bible – like Deborah or Miriam.

As the narrative weaves along, Esther is not merely a product of this bizarre contest; she becomes an icon of strategic thinking and courage, essential traits for navigating the treacherous waters of a king's court. Who thought that a search for beauty might lead to the saving of a nation? It’s a dramatic reminder of how circumstances can shape destinies—and those destinies can unexpectedly ripple across generations!