The book of Esther begins with a vivid description of the setting that starts the exciting story. King Ahasuerus put his riches on display for a party that lasted 180 days. Thing of it as a museum display for six months wrapped up with a lavish seven day banquet (but one that got out of hand.)

I've been struck with the detailed description of how the banquet area was decorated and I wonder why, when this banquet was the start of something we would consider to be a negative event, would God have inspired the writer to go into such detail?

Perhaps God wanted to point out the materialism of the king and the extravagance that contributed toward self-indulgence. You could make a case for that.

But I prefer to think instead that God has an eye for beauty. I don't think the setting itself is condemned. I think instead the writer is pointing out the wonderful elements used to create a celebratory atmosphere. In other parts of Scripture, which include instructions for the tabernacle and our heavenly home, we see some displays of extravagance. Not too long ago, much of the world witnessed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, marveling at the celebration and some of the costs. The human heart seems to be drawn toward beauty and plenty.

Sometimes this can lead to our downfall. The king and his cohorts in this situation certainly were self-centered. Sometimes in our day, we are condemned for being more interested in an extravagent wedding while there is so much pain in the world (severe tornadoes had just devastated people days before.) There are times the Bible seems to advocate simplicity (Jesus had no set home to lay his head.) But I don't think that God condemns this all the time. I think that He allows, and even advocates, occasional "over-the-top" worship and enjoyment of plentiful supply. The key, I think, is not to aim to live there 24/7. We serve a majestic king who is also a humble shepherd. It is appropriate to worship in occasional splendor and in occasional simplicity.