(10) Esther had not made known her people nor her kindred; for Mordecai had charged her that she should not tell it.
HEBREW LEXICON
Esther's Name: אסתר (Persian stara, star) contains the word סתר which means "to hide or conceal".
Questions:
Why did Mordechai make Esther hide her true identity?
In what ways do we hide our true selves?
What does hiding our true selves feel like?
Questions:
What was risky for Esther about coming out?
What fears did she have?
What fears did you have before coming out?
Why is it important to reveal your true self?
Questions:
Esther revealed her true identity and it helped save the people. How is the Purim story a "coming out" story?
On Purim, we wear masks, concealing our true identities. For those who feel forced to hide, concealing ourselves is a difficult task. How do we help ensure that Jewish youth feel safe revealing their true selves?