The illusion of King Ahasuerus’ control was shattered by a simple act of defiance from his wife. He was humiliated in front of the entire nation and enraged, issuing a harsh decree in response. So the drama of Ether unfolds, setting the stage for everything that is to come. Yet in the widest biblical lens, the king’s actions stand in stark contrast to the far greater King who would willingly suffer far greater humiliation for our salvation. This King’s decree would go forth to all lands not to justify himself, but those He came to save.