These four books of the Bible continue the story of the people of Israel, from their return out of exile through the reign of Esther, when the king of Media and Persia makes all his lands safe for the Jews. Although they are still slaves, the people have earned the respect of their Persian rulers: under the protection and mandate of King Artaxerxes, the priest and scribe Ezra undertakes a renewal of ordained religious practices. Discovering that the walls of Jerusalem have crumbled and that fire has destroyed the gates, Nehemiah, cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, obtains letters from the king, assuring the help of nearby governors in the rebuilding of the city. Under the leadership of Nehemiah as governor and Ezra as priest and scribe, the people gather to give thanks to their God, who sustained them throughout their decades of wandering and enslavement. After the ruler Ahasuerus makes Esther, foster daughter of Mordecai, his queen, Mordecai helps the king avert an insurrection. Under the influence of Mordecai and Esther, Ahasuerus places Mordecai above his enemies, the house of Haman and grants permission to the Jews of all cities to unite and defend themselves against their adversaries throughout all his provinces. In one of the best-known Biblical stories, Job, a man of blameless and upright life endures great misfortune at the hands of God, yet remains steadfast in his faith until at last God rewards him with new prosperity and long life.