Burgos 1
Burgos, Isis
ENGL 2377
Paper 2
December 2, 2014
Judith: A Heroine Worthy of the Old Testament
Granting the book of Judith is generally known for being fictional and lacking
historical context, its recognition as a thematic book of triumph with subjects of
perseverance, undeniable devotion to God, and consistent faith would make it a worthy
addition to the Old Testament. Although it can be argued that the heroine, Judith, carries
herself unacceptably at times, it would be insincere to claim that all of the characters in
the Old Testament are exempt from this argument. By utilizing the book of Esther and
exposing its heroine’s actions, it is clear that Esther, too, carries herself in reprehensible
ways that may even be graver than those of Judith, proving that the book of Judith
thematically belongs in the Old Testament.
The book of Esther, which unlike the book of Judith is included in the Old
Testament, presents a heroine who is faced with challenging circumstances to overcome
yet ultimately saves her people. When Queen Vashti refuses to allow herself to be
summoned by the seven eunuchs for King Ahaseurus, it is decided that she must be
replaced by “another who is more worthy of it than she” (Esther 1: 19). Ironically, Esther,
a Jewish woman, is sought out during King Ahaseurus’ search due to her beautiful and
charming nature. Esther is favored by the King, and eventually fills Queen Vashti’s place
at the throne. It could be reasonably argued that Esther, although ultimately saving her
people, abandons key foundations of her religious beliefs in the process.
Burgos 2
The first moment that Esther strays from her religious beliefs occurs when she is
brought to Hergai, who was the one entrusted with preparing the women that will be
presented to King Ahaseurus in his search for a new queen. Advised by Mordecai to do
so, Esther hides her Jewish beliefs and family throughout the process so as not to
interfere with her chances of becoming queen. Because of this, there is nothing to
disqualify her and King Ahaseurus chooses Esther to become his new queen. At this point
in the book of Esther, it can be argued that Esther acts in reprehensible ways by not only
hiding her Jewish beliefs for fear of different treatment, but also through her marriage to
a pagan king. These acts are undoubtedly looked down upon by those who practice the
Jewish faith, and should not be overlooked simply because Esther redeems her image in
the end of the book by ensuring the continuation of her people.
