„Ištar“ und „Marduk“ als jüdische Protagonisten, Purim als neues Fest der Befreiung: Zur Theologie und zum historischen Ort des Esterbuches

Abstract This article deals with two theological paradoxes in the Book of Esther (Masoretic Text). Arguably, most striking characteristic book is that it does not mention God. At same time, Jewish protagonists bear names are identical with, or at least strongly reminiscent of, those Babylonian deities Marduk and Ištar. While author seems to completely ignore cultic laws Pentateuch, end he emphasizes foundation Purim feast. Although each these four topics has been dealt scholarship, they seldomly—and if so, only partly—investigated regard their mutual coherence. In aiming do this, present undertakes reevaluate profile (as expressed Masoretic Text) as well its historical location. As for latter question, intriguing statement related “relief deliverance coming Jews from another place” Est 4:14 provides an important hint.