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When delving into the complexities of being a woman through the lens of scripture, Beth Moore’s study on the Book of Esther emerges as a poignant exploration of femininity, providence, and personal responsibility within the tapestry of God's will. Published by LifeWay Press® in 2008, "Esther: It’s Tough Being a Woman" encourages readers to peer deeply into the life of Esther, a character who demonstrates remarkable resilience and faith amid the challenges of her time. This study intriguingly highlights the absence of direct references to God in Esther's story, yet underlines its saturated presence with divine providence, emphasizing that nothing in our lives happens by chance. Moore captivates audiences by presenting Esther not just as a historical figure but as a testament to the intricate ways in which God works through individuals’ lives, orchestrating events that fulfill divine purposes, even when His hand seems invisible. Through the exploration of scenarios such as the struggle of living in another woman's shadow, the study poignantly discusses the pressures and challenges women face, backed by the compelling narrative of Esther. This approach not only draws attention to the book’s unique place in the Hebrew Bible, being named after a woman and focusing on human responsibility in God’s plan, but also connects deeply with contemporary issues faced by women today, making it a crucial study for understanding the depth of God's providence and the strength found in faithfulness.

Preview - Beth Moore Esther Form

esther

it’s tough being a woman

BETH MOORE

Published by LifeWay Press®. ©2008 Beth Moore. Permission is granted to store, print, and distribute this document for its intended use.

Distribution for sale is strictly prohibited. Address requests for additional permissions in writing to Leadership and Adult Publishing;

One LifeWay Plaza; Nashville, TN 37234-0175.

esther

viewer guide y introduction

The Background of Esther in the Hebrew Bible and Tradition

The Book of Esther is also known as the Megillah .

Historical Background

Like the Book of Daniel, Esther is a Diaspora story.

The Uniqueness of the Book of Esther

1. The total

absence

 

of any

reference

to God

Why study the Book of Esther?

 

 

 

• It’s part of

God’s

 

Word .

 

 

 

• Based on Psalm 138:2b God’s name may not be in

it

,

but

it

is

on

it .

 

 

 

• It offers tremendous

 

hope

.

 

 

• It extends a vital perspective on the

providence

of _

God .

Merriam Webster’s deinition of providence: “God conceived as the

power

 

sustaining

and

guiding

human

 

destiny .” Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary adds, “In so doing [in His providence] God attends not only to apparently momentous events and people but also to those that seem both

mundane and trivial . … Indeed, so all encompassing is God’s attention to events within creation that nothing …

happens by chance .”

8

Ephesians 1:11—Even when we’re blind to the evidence, God

works

out

everything

in conformity with the

purpose

of His will.”

 

 

Philippians 2:13—Godworks__

in

you to will and to act

according to His good _______purpose______.”

 

2. The title bears a ___ woman’s___ ___ name___.

Throughout the next nine weeks we’ll consider different scenarios to underscore the concept captured in our study’s title.

Scenario #1

It’s tough being a woman in another woman’s shadow .

3. The God-ordained emphasis on __human __

responsibility ____

According to Word Biblical Commentary, the inspired author of Esther

“lays all the stress on the human

contribution to the

divine-human synergism ” [combined or shared energy].

introduction

Video sessions are available for download at www.lifeway.com/women

9

 

 

esther 2:1-7

viewer guide y session one

Today’s session introduces our protagonist and most vital supporting actor. We will use these important “first mentions” to help us draw character sketches of each based on what we know and what we also might imagine.

Part One

A Character Sketch

of Mordecai

• He was a

Jew

(6:10; 8:7; 9:31; 10:3; 5:13).

 

“Its significance is indicated by the fact that this is the

only

time

in the whole Old Testament that a

native

member

of the community of Israel is named and identified by a gentilic.”1

• He was an

exile

.

 

 

Esther 2:6 “employs the root of the word for exile (glh) in four distinct

constructions, lest the full measure of the Jewish plight be overlooked.”2

View the repetition in the King James Version: “Who had been

carried

away

from Jerusalem with the

captivity

which

had been

carried

away with Jeconiah king of Judah whom

Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried

away .”

• He was a sudden

parent

to his cousin

.

32

Part Two

A Character Sketch of Esther

• She was named

Hadassah

.

 

 

This Jewish name comes from the word for “ myrtle

 

and means “

fragrance

 

.”3

 

 

• She was

orphaned

.

 

 

 

• She was

brought

 

up by her male

cousin

.

• She was

lovely .

 

 

 

 

Scenario #2

It’s tough being a woman in a

 

world

where

beauty

is a

treatment

 

.

 

• She was also known

as

Esther

.

This Persian name means “ star

.”

 

Perhaps even more significantly, “the name Esther comes from the

verbal root in Hebrew str, meaning ‘to

conceal

.’ ”4

esther 2:1-7 W e e k 1 • A R o y a l M e s s

Video sessions are available for download at www.lifeway.com/women

33

 

 

esther 3:1-5

viewer guide y session two

Scenario #3

It’s tough being a woman in a mean

world .

1.

Meanness

always has a

history

.

Consider the history of these two rivals.

 

Mordecai,

 

 

Haman,

a

Jew

from the tribe of

 

a presumed Amalekite and descendant

 

Benjamin and a descendant of

 

of

Agag

, their king during

 

King

Saul

 

 

Saul’s

reign

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The disobeyed instruction:

1 Samuel 15:10-23,30

The revealed

explanation : Deuteronomy 25:17-19

(Referring to Ex. 17:8-16.)

56

Exodus 17:16—“ The

LORD

will be at war against the

Amalekites from generation to generation.”

2.

Meanness

perceives a threat (2 Cor. 10:12).

3.

Meanness

catches like a

virus

.

The word Agag is believed to be related to an Assyrian term (agagu)

that means “to be

powerful

, vehement,

angry

.”5

The name “Haman” sounds similar to the Hebrew word for

wrath (Hebrew, heman).6 (Compare Prov. 22:24-25.)

Consider the following quote

“Surely as Christians we must recognize the ‘

spirit

_ of

Haman ’ not only in our world but

 

within

ourselves

.”7

 

4. Meanness

is

curable

(Rom. 12:17-21).

esther 3:1-5 W e e k 2 • A C o n t e s t f o r a Q u e e n

Video sessions are available for download at www.lifeway.com/women

57

 

 

esther 4:1-14

viewer guide y session three

The Human Dilemma of Destiny

Many of the biblical figures who fulfilled their God-appointed

destinies shared some of Esther’s basic inner conflicts.

Consider the dilemma of destiny from a human perspective:

1. The

poor

timing

. Reflect on Esther 4:11b.

2. The

unreasonable

expectation

.

Scenario #4

It’s tough being a woman

thrown

a

giant - size

weight .

 

80

3. The

 

risky

 

identification

.

 

• Remember, destiny appoints

 

one

__ but affects __

__.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

many

 

• The

revelation

 

of a person’s destiny always demands

a revelation of the

person

 

. Consider the wording “if you

remain silent at this time.” The Hebrew word translated silent in this

verse can also be translated

 

conceal

.

 

4. The

unanswered

question

.

 

(See verse 14.)

 

 

 

 

“The sentence contains a igure of speech known as aposiopesis—a

sudden

breaking

off

of what was being said or written

so that the mind is more impressed by what is

left

unsaid ,

it being too wonderful, solemn or awful to verbalize. In English

this igure is sometimes called the ‘sudden

silence

.’ ”8

esther 4:1-14 W e e k 3 • A R a g i n g P a s s i o n f o r H o n o r

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81

 

 

esther 4:11-17

viewer guide y session four

Part One

Our protagonist made three shifts that moved her

from self-preservation to brave determination.

1. Esther had a

choice

.

 

 

“She [Esther] had to

overcome

herself

in order to

do what God had created her and positioned her to do.”9

2. Esther faced the fear .

Consider general fears, then our context’s specific fear:

• Facing any ___fear

And if ____________________________, then ___________.

[your answers here]

104

Form Data

Fact Detail
Author and Publisher Beth Moore, Published by LifeWay Press®
Copyright Year 2008
Permissions Granted for storage, printing, and distribution for intended use. Sale is prohibited.
Unique Aspects No reference to God; Emphasizes human responsibility; Features a female protagonist named Esther.
Themes Divine providence and human responsibility; The significance of names; The challenges women face.

Instructions on Utilizing Beth Moore Esther

Filling out the Beth Moore Esther form requires attention to detail and an understanding of the content's significant themes and characters. This form serves as a guide through the study of Esther, a book in the Hebrew Bible known for its unique characteristics, including the absence of direct references to God, yet it conveys strong messages about providence, hope, and human responsibility. The form also explores the complexities of characters such as Mordecai and Esther, offering insights into their roles and significance within the narrative. Completing this form not only requires factual information from the text but also reflection on the deeper themes presented. Follow the steps below to accurately and thoughtfully complete the Beth Moore Esther form.

  1. Start by carefully reading the introduction provided in the Esther form to understand the background of the Book of Esther, its place within the Hebrew Bible and tradition, and the unique aspects that it presents.
  2. Reflect on the reasons for studying the Book of Esther, focusing on the concepts of God's providence and the emphasis on human responsibility as highlighted in the form. Note these reflections as they pertain to your own view of the text.
  3. In the section labeled "introduction," identify the key themes mentioned, such as the importance of God's Word, the concept of providence, and the significance of a woman's name bearing the title.
  4. Proceed to "Part One A Character Sketch of Mordecai". Using the information provided, list Mordecai's characteristics, his background as a Jew in exile, and his role as a sudden parent to his cousin, Esther. Interpret these characteristics in light of the broader themes of the study.
  5. In "Part Two A Character Sketch of Esther", note Esther's origins, her names, and their meanings, as well as her situation and attributes. Consider how Esther’s dual identity and her beauty contribute to the themes of concealment and the portrayal of women in the narrative.
  6. After filling out the character sketches, link these attributes and scenarios to the overarching themes of the form, such as providence, responsibility, and the role of women. Reflect on how these themes interact with the character studies.
  7. Finally, review your answers and reflections to ensure they are comprehensive and align with the text's themes and the intentions behind the Beth Moore Esther study.

Upon completing the form, participants will have engaged deeply with the text, character complexities, and thematic elements of the Book of Esther. This thorough engagement aids in understanding the relevance of Esther’s story in a broader biblical and existential context, emphasizing the importance of perspective, providence, and personal agency within the narrative and in one’s own life.

Obtain Answers on Beth Moore Esther

  1. What is the Beth Moore Esther study, and who is it designed for?

    The Beth Moore Esther study is a comprehensive examination of the Book of Esther from the Bible, best known for its title "Esther: It’s Tough Being a Woman." Authored by Beth Moore and published by LifeWay Press in 2008, the study is designed for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of this biblical book. It is particularly aimed at individuals and groups interested in exploring themes of providence, faith, and resilience from a woman's perspective within the Judeo-Christian tradition.

  2. Why doesn't the Book of Esther mention God, and how does Beth Moore address this?

    One of the unique aspects of the Book of Esther is its total absence of any reference to God, a fact that distinguishes it within the Hebrew Bible. Beth Moore addresses this curiosity by emphasizing that while God’s name may not be explicitly mentioned, His presence and guiding hand are implicitly woven throughout the story. Moore encourages readers to see God's providence—in His power to sustain and guide human destiny—even in events and actions not directly attributed to Him.

  3. What themes are explored in the Beth Moore Esther study?

    The study delves into several key themes, including the tough challenges women face, the importance of human responsibility in divine-human interactions, and the concept of providence. It explores how God 'works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will' (Ephesians 1:11) and 'works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose' (Philippians 2:13). These themes are unpacked through various scenarios that Beth Moore presents, encouraging participants to reflect on their own lives in light of Esther's story.

  4. Can the study materials for "Esther: It’s Tough Being a Woman" be distributed freely?

    Yes, but with specific conditions. According to the copyright information provided by LifeWay Press, permission is granted to store, print, and distribute the document for its intended use, as long as distribution is not for sale. Any requests for additional permissions need to be addressed in writing to Leadership and Adult Publishing at LifeWay Plaza in Nashville, TN.

  5. Are there any additional resources available for those studying Esther with Beth Moore's guide?

    Indeed, for those wishing to further immerse themselves in the study, video sessions accompanying each lesson of the Beth Moore Esther study are available for download. These sessions aim to enrich participants' understanding by providing Beth Moore's engaging and in-depth commentary on the text and its application to modern life. They serve as a valuable tool for both individual and group study settings.

  6. What makes the Book of Esther—and by extension, Beth Moore's study—relevant to contemporary readers?

    The Book of Esther holds timeless appeal due to its powerful narrative of resilience, courage, and the undercurrents of God's unseen guidance in our lives. Beth Moore’s study on Esther brings these elements to the forefront, offering contemporary readers vital perspectives on faith, providence, and personal responsibility. It highlights the ways in which seemingly ordinary people can play pivotal roles in God’s plans, making it a compelling study for those navigating the complexities of modern faith.

Common mistakes

When individuals embark on filling out the Beth Moore Esther form, several common mistakes can occur. These errors can range from overlooking essential details to misunderstanding the purpose of the form itself. Addressing these issues not only ensures that the information is accurately conveyed but also enhances the study experience for participants.

  1. Missing the Form's Purpose: Some might start filling out the form without grasping its aim – to delve deeper into the study of Esther and its teachings. Understanding this primary goal is crucial as it influences how one approaches the questions and activities within the form.

  2. Overlooking Questions or Sections: It's easy to skip over questions or entire sections accidentally. This typically happens because of distraction or the false belief that certain parts are not applicable. However, each section is designed to aid in the comprehension and application of Esther's story, making it important to complete the form in its entirety.

  3. Not Using the Suggested Scriptures: The form often refers to specific Scriptures for guidance or reflection. Ignoring these references can lead to missed insights and diminished understanding of the material. These Scriptures serve as a foundation for the themes and lessons within the Esther study.

  4. Failure to Share Personal Reflections: Some participants might hesitate to share personal reflections due to a variety of reasons, including privacy concerns or the belief that their insights are not valuable. However, personal reflections are vital, as they reveal the material's impact on the individual and encourage a deeper personal connection with the text.

In conclusion, actively engaging with every aspect of the Beth Moore Esther form, from understanding its purpose, thoroughly answering each question, utilizing Scripture references, to sharing personal reflections, greatly enriches the study experience. This comprehensive approach ensures a fuller appreciation and grasp of the lessons from Esther's story.

Documents used along the form

The Beth Moore Esther study, focusing on the themes and lessons from the Book of Esther, often serves as a foundation for deepening one's faith and understanding of biblical narratives. Accompanying this form, there are various documents and forms that can enrich the study experience, foster further reflection, and encourage the integration of these teachings into daily life. These documents range from personal reflection guides to more formal church documents, all aiming to complement the educational and spiritual journey initiated by the Esther study.

  • Study Group Registration Form: Utilized for organizing participants into study groups, capturing basic information such as name, contact details, and preferred meeting times.
  • Session Feedback Form: Helps gather participants' feedback after each study session to enhance the learning experience and facilitate group discussion.
  • Personal Reflection Diary: A structured diary designed for participants to jot down their daily reflections, insights, and personal revelations inspired by the Esther study.
  • Weekly Discussion Guide: Provides a set of questions and topics for each week, encouraging meaningful conversation within the study groups.
  • Volunteer Sign-up Sheet: Used for organizing volunteering opportunities related to the study, such as community service or church events, allowing participants to engage actively beyond the study.
  • Event Planning Checklist: A comprehensive guide for organizing events, workshops, or gatherings that are inspired by themes from the Esther study, ensuring a smooth execution of such events.
  • Prayer Request Form: Gives participants a structured way to share prayer requests with their study group, fostering a supportive and prayerful community.
  • Reading Schedule: A detailed schedule that outlines the chapters or sections to be read before each study session, ensuring that all participants are prepared for discussions.

Integrating these documents with the Beth Moore Esther study not only enhances the organizational aspects of conducting study groups but also deepens the individual and collective engagement with the material. By providing structured ways to reflect, discuss, and act upon the teachings, these forms help translate the timeless lessons from Esther into actionable insights for contemporary life.

Similar forms

The Beth Moore Esther form is a unique document designed for a specific educational and spiritual purpose. However, it shares similarities with other documents in terms of structure, content, and intention. Below are 10 documents that share similarities with the Beth Moore Esther form:

  1. Study Guides: Similar to the Beth Moore Esther form, study guides provide a structured approach to learning about a specific subject, featuring questions, summaries, and key points to consider.
  2. Religious Text Commentaries: These documents offer interpretations and insights into religious texts, similar to how the Beth Moore Esther form explores the Book of Esther in the Bible, providing context and analysis.
  3. Workbooks: Workbooks, used in both educational and self-help contexts, share similarities with the document by offering exercises and activities that facilitate understanding and personal growth.
  4. Lesson Plans: Teachers use lesson plans to outline the objectives and methods of instruction, similar to how the Beth Moore Esther form serves as a guide for both learning and teaching the material it covers.
  5. Personal Development Plans: These plans, designed to help individuals achieve personal growth, resemble the Beth Moore Esther form in their structured approach to exploring and applying concepts for personal improvement.
  6. Readers' Guides: Often accompanying novels or complex texts, readers' guides offer summaries, discussion questions, and themes, akin to the comprehensive exploration found in the Beth Moore Esther form.
  7. Spiritual Reflection Journals: These journals invite users to reflect on their spiritual journey, similar to how the document encourages reflection on the themes and lessons of the Book of Esther.
  8. Instruction Manuals: While typically more technical, instruction manuals provide step-by-step guidance to accomplish specific tasks, paralleling the structured approach to learning and application found in the Beth Moore Esther form.
  9. Conference Proceeding: These documents compile presentations and discussions from conferences, similar to how the document might be used in a group study setting to guide discussion and exploration of the material.
  10. Self-Help Guides: Focused on personal improvement, self-help guides share the intention of the Beth Moore Esther form to encourage readers towards growth and insights in their personal lives or faith.

In summary, despite the unique focus on the Book of Esther and its implications for faith and personal growth, the Beth Moore Esther form shares commonalities with a variety of documents aimed at guiding learning, reflection, and personal development.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out the Beth Moore Esther study form requires mindfulness and attention to detail. Here’s a guide on what to do and what not to do:

Things You Should Do:

  1. Ensure that you have the correct and current form. Beth Moore’s "Esther: It’s Tough Being a Woman" is a specific study, and using the right materials is crucial.

  2. Read through the entire form first to understand the expectations and the nature of the questions or prompts provided.

  3. Answer each question thoughtfully, reflecting on the material and how it applies to your life or understanding of the scripture.

  4. Use a clear and legible handwriting if filling out the form by hand or ensure typed responses are free from typographical errors.

  5. Feel free to reference your Bible or any additional commentaries to enrich your answers, making sure to note these references where appropriate.

  6. Approach the study with an open heart and mind, allowing personal insights and revelations to come forth.

  7. Respect the confidentiality of personal reflections if sharing the form with a study group or leader.

  8. Contact the publisher or study leader if you have questions about the form or need clarification on specific sections.

  9. Use the study as an opportunity for spiritual growth, engaging deeply with the material.

  10. Submit or share your completed form according to the guidelines provided by your study group or church.

Things You Shouldn't Do:

  1. Do not rush through the questions without giving them proper thought and consideration.

  2. Do not skip sections or questions, even if they seem challenging; each part of the study is designed for comprehensive understanding.

  3. Do not use another person’s insights or answers without giving them credit, to maintain academic and spiritual integrity.

  4. Do not view the study merely as an academic exercise; be open to how God might be speaking to you through Esther’s story.

  5. Do not distribute the study material for sale or other unauthorized uses as this violates copyright laws and the conditions set by the publisher.

  6. Do not forget to save a copy of your answers if you are working digitally, to prevent loss of work.

  7. Do not dismiss the historical and cultural context within which the Book of Esther was written, as this understanding deepens the study.

  8. Do not overlook the importance of prayer and meditation alongside your study to seek wisdom and understanding.

  9. Do not ignore guidelines or instructions provided on the form, as these are designed to guide your engagement with the material.

  10. Do not share sensitive or personal revelations from others participating in the study without their express consent.

Misconceptions

When diving into Beth Moore's "Esther: It's Tough Being a Woman," it's important to navigate through the waves of misconceptions that often accompany discussions about this study. This work, deeply entrenched in the tradition of the Hebrew Bible, provides an in-depth look at the Book of Esther, offering lessons on divine providence, human responsibility, and the strength found within. Let's clear the air on some common misunderstandings regarding this formative text.

  • Misconception #1: The study marginalizes the role of God due to the apparent absence of His name.

    Contrary to this belief, the study underscores a profound presence of God’s providence throughout the Book of Esther, despite His name not being explicitly mentioned. It highlights how divine will operates within the tapestry of human events, emphasizing that nothing occurs by mere chance.

  • Misconception #2: It's only relevant to women.

    While the title and certain themes suggest a particular resonance with women, its exploration of faith, courage, and moral integrity speaks to all audiences. The study delves into human character and God's sovereignty in ways that are universal.

  • Misconception #3: The Book of Esther and Moore’s study lack depth because they are rooted in a story about a beauty contest.

    This perspective overlooks the complexity and the layers within the narrative. Beyond the surface, the story of Esther is a profound exploration of identity, power, and divine intercession, which Moore adeptly unpacks, showing its depth and relevance.

  • Misconception #4: Beth Moore's interpretation is purely historical without practical application.

    Moore's study bridges the ancient text with contemporary life, making it highly applicable to modern issues. She illuminates how themes of courage, faith, and providence in Esther's story can inspire and guide us in today's world.

  • Misconception #5: The focus on a woman's beauty makes the study superficial.

    This misses the broader narratives of inner strength, character, and divine orchestration that the study emphasizes. Moore acknowledges the role of Esther’s beauty according to the narrative, yet she delves deeper into how Esther's character and faith were pivotal in her actions and God's plan.

  • Misconception #6: The study suggests passive acceptance of one’s circumstances.

    Far from advocating passivity, Moore's interpretation of Esther encourages active, faith-driven engagement with one’s circumstances. It highlights the importance of human responsibility in cooperating with God's providence, challenging readers to consider their own roles in God's narrative.

In conclusion, Beth Moore's "Esther: It's Tough Being a Woman" extends far beyond the misconceptions that might cloud its reception. It is a rich, compelling study that invites readers into a deeper understanding of biblical principles, human responsibility, and the ever-present providence of God. Whether you are deeply familiar with the Book of Esther or encountering it for the first time, Moore's insights provide valuable lessons in faith, resilience, and divine purpose.

Key takeaways

The Beth Moore Esther study provides in-depth insights into the life and times of Esther, offering valuable lessons and applications for women today. Below are key takeaways when engaging with this study material:

  • The Book of Esther is unique in the Hebrew Bible for its total absence of direct references to God, yet it profoundly demonstrates God's providence and sovereign will at work in human affairs. This aspect encourages believers to see God's hand in every detail of life, even when He seems absent.
  • Esther's story emphasizes the importance of human responsibility in God's divine plan, showing a collaborative energy between the divine and mankind. This stresses the role of individual actions and decisions within the overarching purposes of God.
  • The study is structured to facilitate deep understanding over nine weeks, each week exploring different scenarios that illustrate the main theme: "It's tough being a woman." This approach provides a structured yet flexible framework for both personal reflection and group discussion.
  • Video sessions complement the guide, enriching the study experience with visual and auditory learning elements. These sessions are available for download, offering an accessible way to dive deeper into the study, irrespective of one's location.
  • Permission is explicitly granted for the storage, printing, and distribution of the document for its intended use, ensuring that groups or individuals can share the material easily. However, selling the material is strictly prohibited, maintaining the integrity and accessibility of the study for all.
  • The study includes character sketches of both Esther and Mordecai, providing insights into their backgrounds, personalities, and roles in the narrative. This holistic view aids in understanding their development and the dynamics of their choices throughout the story.
  • The inclusion of specific scenarios, like "It's tough being a woman in another woman's shadow," enables participants to explore relevant issues women face today, bridging ancient scriptural lessons with modern-day challenges.
  • The Beth Moore Esther study not only examines the plot and characters of the Book of Esther but also delves into the historical and cultural contexts of the time. This enriches the understanding of the narrative, giving depth and clarity to the events and decisions made by the characters.

This comprehensive study guide serves not only as a tool for individual growth but also as a catalyst for community learning and support among women seeking to deepen their faith and understanding of biblical truths through the life of Esther.

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