The answer is: Jewish

Esther 2:5-7

Esther’s story unfolds in a captivating backdrop of power, intrigue, and courage, set during the reign of King Xerxes of Persia. Though she was Jewish, raised by her cousin Mordecai, she maintained her identity against a lavish Persian court where her heritage could have unwittingly exposed her to dangers—echoes of exile are part of what make this narrative resilient and relatable.

Esther’s adaptation to court life is particularly fascinating. Underlying her journey is a deep ballad of faith and resilience, themes that aren't just confined to her story but permeate the entire biblical narrative. When she entered the palace, Esther became deprived of her Jewish customs, clad in beautiful garments that defined her newfound status, yet reminders of her roots persisted. It’s tribally vital to note that her original Persian name was “Hadassah,” which means “myrtle” in Hebrew—a plant representing peace and redemption.

Interestingly, although the book of Esther does not mention God directly, divine providence shimmers like an undercurrent through Esther’s ascension to queen. The Jewish holiday of Purim celebrates her courageous intervention to save her people from annihilation and serves as a remembrance of resilience amidst oppression—a real hallmark of the Jewish spirit!

The lessons of Esther continue to ignite conversations around bravery, identity, and social justice. They prompt reflections on what it means to stand up for others, making her story a timeless inspiration in communities around the world.