Best Commentaries on Esther

Though a little dated, Clines work on Esther has been foundational to most work on the book since this commentary appeared. He’s well aware of its narrative structure and how this contributes to the book’s theology.

Longman names Jobes’s commentary as “the best commentary to buy on Esther. It is informative about [the text’s] original meaning and insightful on how to apply it to the contemporary world. Jobes is theologically astute and a good writer.” Jobes’s work on Esther has wide acclaim because her writing is accessible to both laymen and scholars. This volume demonstrates her familiarity with the text and ability to find rich application for the present day.

Reid’s contribution to the Tyndale series replaces the acclaimed but out of print volume from Joyce Baldwin. Her explanation and exposition of the book is approachable, concise, and reliable.

Taylor’s commentary is a particularly good example of how to integrate careful attention to the biblical text with application that is helpful for contemporary Christians.

Duguid’s commentary is an invaluable resource for teachers who have studied the text and want to check their exegetical work with a careful and Reformed interpretive lens. Duguid will also help pastors make contemporary applications.

Longer than his free commentary from TGC, Firth here expounds the book of Esther as a model for dealing with a world where Christians are frequently a minority voice. He calls us to courageously engage society at the forefront of stands for justice while trusting in the God who is always at work.

Philipps’s knowledge of Hebrew shines forth in this volume. Though short, it’s a helpful guide to contemporary research.

McConville’s commentary on Esther is scholarly but not technical, informed (though a bit dated) without being too academic. His present-day application may fall a little flat, but he situates Esther in its canonical context expertly.

Bush’s commentary is a key source for understanding the text and translation of Esther. It is one of the most thorough commentaries available on the book and incredibly helpful for those seeking an in-depth analysis of the text. Bush’s technical writing will be especially helpful for seminary students who need an introduction to the main areas of scholarly debate.

Levenson’s work is more readable than Bush’s. It considers Esther’s place in the canon and issues of authorship. Longman says,  “[Levenson] is well versed in the ancient and modern scholarly literature. It also pays attention to the Greek version of the story that is significantly different from the Hebrew version and that is accepted by Catholics as authoritative. Levenson believes that Esther seems well aware of authentic Persian customs and history, but in the final analysis he believes it is a work of historical fiction.”

Written with an engaging and lively tone, Berlin’s commentary brings Esther into conversation with Hebrew literary themes and tendencies. Her interpretations are not always evangelical but they are nonetheless thought-provoking and well-studied.