Okay, for all you Star Wars buffs out there, I'm certain to get some of my facts wrong, so let me explain how I began drawing the conclusion that Esther might possibly be a "Princess Leia"-type...
You see, I was trolling around on Youtube and stumbled on this video:
This was perfect because it got me thinking about Mordecai.
You see, as I read Esther, I've always felt that Mordecai was the hero. Listening to a little Star Wars music helped me to realize that he really is like an Obi-Wan Kenobi (see the uncle connection?)
Mordecai is wise, sage-like...people (princesses?) turn to him in times of need. He reads the signs of the times and makes wise decisions for the future. He's self sacrificing and wields a mean light saber...wait.
Okay, I might be getting carried away a bit.
I really do feel that Mordecai should get more credit than he usually does. His challenge to Esther in chapter 4:12-14 is profound: “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
First, he challenges any false notion of security which Esther might have (my translation..."Don't think this doesn't concern you, missy!") Next, her reminds her that God is in control regardless of her choice...hiss faith that the Jews will be delivered is absolute. Finally, he shows her how she is uniquely positioned to influence the situation and calls her to action.
Esther is stirred to action and does step out. Sure, she does the "heavy lifting", but Mordecai was there behind the scenes stoking the fire.
Okay, those are my thoughts...two more trivia points about Esther...1) God is never overtly mentioned in the book and 2) it's the first time that the Israelites are labeled "Jews" in scripture.
So if Esther is Princess Leia and Mordecai is Obi-Wan Kenobi, who does that make Haman? Let me know your thoughts!

