From the Desk of Rabbi Shlomo Rizel Torah Portion: Tetzaveh / Zachor

Myth: Mordechai Was Esther’s Uncle

The Jewish holiday of Purim was established during the Persian exile, after the Jews had been saved from the genocidal scheming of Haman, advisor to King Achashverosh. The main heroes are Esther, the Jewish wife of the king, and her relative Mordechai. In many books and audio retellings of the Purim story, Mordechai is presented as Esther’s uncle, who had raised her after her parents’ passing.

Fact: Mordechai Was Esther’s Cousin

It is true that Mordechai raised Esther. However, the Megillah (Scroll of Esther) clearly states that he was her cousin, not uncle.1 Interestingly, the sages tell us that Esther was not just Mordechai’s cousin—she was also his wife!