The Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast
Matt Whitman
Welcome to the Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast where we pick a Bible a work our way through it a little bit each day! You can start with today's episode or go back to the beginning of any of these five seasons:Season 1 - Matthew (Began October, 2019 - Episodes 1-800)Season 2 - One Book of the Bible Per Day (Began January, 2023)Season 3 - Esther (Began April 9, 2023)Season 4 - Nehemiah (Began January 1, 2024)Season 5 - Galatians (Began August 26, 2024)Season 6 - Philemon (CURRENT SEASON Began October 19, 2025)You can also check out the daily audio-only podcast on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@TenMinuteBibleHourMore About the Show: I'm Matt, and if you're interested in understanding the Bible better and you prefer your Christianity quick and punchy with a healthy side of humor, and an equally healthy side of me not telling you what to do, we're probably going to get along great. This is my podcast where we pick a book of the Bible and then break it down one part at a time every weekday morning.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 29, 2023 • 10min
EST102 - This Conversation Between Esther and Xerxes Reminds Me of the Conversation Between Herod and Herodias
The speaker shares a story about their middle daughter to highlight Esther's skillful approach to King Xerxes. Queen Esther surprises Xerxes with a banquet, creating a joyful atmosphere. The speaker reflects on the conversation between Esther and Xerxes, drawing biblical parallels and discussing intentional echoes in the narratives.
Aug 28, 2023 • 10min
EST101 - Esther Quashes Her Inner Kool-Aid Man, Summons Her Courage and Composure, and Tames the Beast
Explore the concept of 'Kool-Aid Manning' and how Queen Esther shows remarkable shrewdness. Discover how Esther maintains composure under pressure, comparing it to taming a dangerous beast. Anticipation builds for Esther's strategy to steer the situation toward something positive.
Aug 25, 2023 • 11min
EST100 - The Persians Left Us a Picture Like What Happened When Esther Approached the King and We Need to Talk About This
Esther prepares to approach the king risking her life. Unraveling the tension through a relief carving in Tehran. Analyzing the various characters depicted in the relief. Exploring a picture that reveals Esther's entrance and highlights a connection between Darius and Xerxes.
Aug 24, 2023 • 12min
EST099 - We've Reached the Moment of Truth
A discussion on tension in reality shows and biblical narratives. Exploring the dramatic build-up in Esther chapter five and the significance of Esther's entrance into the inner court. Comparisons to reality shows and gratitude towards supporters.
Aug 23, 2023 • 12min
EST098 - Let's Look at Some of the Later Greek Additions to Esther
Exploring the Greek and Latin translations of the book of Esther, the controversy surrounding them during the Protestant Reformation, and the variations between the Hebrew and Greek editions of Esther. Also discussing the significance of the later Greek additions and their value in understanding the text.
Aug 22, 2023 • 9min
EST097 - Greek Esther Means Something Very Different Than Hebrew Esther
Exploring the historical context of the book of Esther and the challenges faced by Jews in understanding and practicing their religious texts written in Hebrew. The origins and popularity of the Greek translation known as the Septuagint. The challenges faced by Jews under Persian and Greek rule, including the Greek restrictions on their religious practices. The disparities between the Hebrew and Greek renditions of the Esther story and how characters were modified to align with Jewish sensibilities.
Aug 21, 2023 • 11min
EST096 - Alexandria Was the Most Jewish City in the World Once
The podcast discusses the distinction between the Hebrew and Greek versions of the book of Esther, the Christian Orthodox position on Scripture, and Alexander the Great's conquests and the rise of Alexandria.
Aug 18, 2023 • 12min
EST095 - Wait, Did You Say There Was Another Version of Esther? How Do We Know We're Looking at the Right One?
Exploring multiple versions of the Book of Esther and their religious significance, analyzing the character development in movie remakes and the original story, discussing the theme of exile and its relevance for Christians, exploring parallels between doing good in exile and the covenant with Abraham, and examining the later Greek additions to the book of Esther after the decline of the Persian Empire and the rise of Alexander the Great.
Aug 17, 2023 • 12min
EST094 - Esther Has Passed Through the Ordeal Canal, Emerged a New Person, and Now She's Taking Charge
Explore Queen Esther's transformation and leadership in the Book of Esther. Analyze her difficult choices and the absence of religious references. Discover God's providence and celebrate upcoming milestones with a party and a church ministry conference.
Aug 16, 2023 • 10min
EST093 - A Hero Rises
Exploring the feeling of being stuck and its connection to the character of Esther. The role of Mordecai as an agitator and motivator. A hero rises, making a brave and decisive choice, going against the law and inspiring others to take action.
