Esther Is Introduced to Ahasuerus

The Persian king Ahasuerus had banished his previous wife and was now looking for a new queen. He ordered that all beautiful young virgins in his land be gathered in his house, so that he could make his choice.

Esther was one of the virgins. She was living with her old cousin Mordecai. He advised Esther not to mention her Jewish origins, as that might cause problems.

After a year of beauty treatments Esther was introduced to the king. Ahasuerus was impressed by her appearance and choose her to be his new wife.