Catholic Public Domain Version

Esther 9:5-21 Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV)

5. Yet she had a rosy color pouring over her face, for, with gracious and bright eyes, she restrained a sorrowful soul and very great fear.

6. And so, entering hesitantly through a series of doors, she stood opposite the king, where he sat upon his royal throne, clothed in royal robes, and shining with gold and precious stones. And he was terrible to behold.

7. And when he had lifted up his face, and with burning eyes had shown the fury of his heart, the queen collapsed, and her color turned pale, and she rested her exhausted head upon her handmaid.

8. And God changed the king's spirit into gentleness; quickly and apprehensively, he leapt from his throne, and lifting her up in his arms until she came to herself, he coaxed her with these words:

9. "What is the matter, Esther? I am your brother, do not be afraid.

10. You will not die. For this law has not been established for you, but for all others.

11. So approach and touch the scepter."

12. And since she remained silent, he took the golden scepter and placed it on her neck, and he kissed her and said, "Why do you not speak to me?"

13. She answered, "I saw you, my lord, as an angel of God, and my heart was disturbed for fear of your glory.

14. For you, my lord, are great and wonderful, and your face is full of grace."

15. And while she was speaking, she collapsed again, because she was out of breath.

16. But the king was troubled, and all his servants consoled her. Alternate text from the Hebrew, verses -:

17. And so, on the third day, Esther had put on her royal apparel and was standing in the atrium of the king's house, which was inside, opposite the king's hall, while he was sitting on his throne in the council room of the palace, opposite the entrance of the house.

18. And when he saw Esther the queen standing there, she pleased his eyes, and he extended toward her the golden scepter, which he held in his hand, and she approached and kissed the top of his scepter.

19. And the king said to her, "What do you wish, queen Esther? What is your request? Even if you ask for half of the kingdom, it will be given to you."

20. But she responded, "If it pleases the king, I beg you to come with me today, and Haman with you, to the feast that I have prepared."

21. And immediately the king said, "Call Haman quickly, so that he may obey Esther's will. And so the king and Haman came to the feast, which the queen had prepared for them.