Queen Vashti: A Contemporary Model for Christian Morality in Africa

Daniel Nii Aboagye Aryeh,George Sungadar Moses Wee

doi:10.38159/erats.2021722

Abstract

In this paper, King Artaxerxes’ action against Queen Vashti (Esther 1:1-2:1-18) is examined, and moral and ethical lessons for contemporary Christian morality are drawn. One can describe the decision of the King as contemptible, despicable, barbaric, and a violation of Queen Vashti’s self-value and dignity. A further challenge can be thrown to the popular notion, which seems to suggest that Queen Vashti was disobedient, arrogant, and not submissive. Contrary to the traditional popular derogatory assessment of Queen Vashti’s rejection of the King’s demand, it is argued that she is a contemporary model for Christian Morality. Rhetorical criticism and historical narrative criticism were used for the study. An analysis of the moral and ethical factors that underpinned Queen Vashti’s rejection of the King’s demand and found that she demonstrated high moral and ethical values worth emulating was conducted in the study. It is, therefore, recommended that Christian women emulate Queen Vashti and maintain high moral and ethical values in society. Keywords: King Artaxerxes, Esther, Vashti, Gender.

Highlights

The story of Queen Vashti is an interesting story for Christians, most especially male Christians who place irrevocable emphasis on the submission of women
Contrary to the traditional popular derogatory assessment of Queen Vashti’s rejection of the King’s demand, it is argued that she is a contemporary model for Christian Morality
Rhetorical criticism and historical narrative criticism were used for the study

Summary

Introduction

The story of Queen Vashti is an interesting story for Christians, most especially male Christians who place irrevocable emphasis on the submission of women. It is recommended that Christian women emulate Queen Vashti and maintain high moral and ethical values in society. Others have viewed the narrative using a one-sided approach and eulogize Esther as the most favored celebrity.1 Contrary to the traditional popular derogatory assessment of Queen Vashti’s rejection of the King’s demand, the authors argue that she is a contemporary model for Christian Morality.

Results

Conclusion