Esther 2:9

And the young woman pleased him and obtained his favor, so he quickly provided her with beauty treatments and the special diet. He assigned to her seven select maidservants from the palace and transferred her with them to the best place in the harem.

Study Bible

And the girl pleased him
The phrase "pleased him" indicates a favorable impression that Esther made on Hegai, the custodian of the women. The Hebrew root word here is "yatab," which means to be good, pleasing, or well. This suggests that Esther's demeanor, character, or perhaps even divine favor, made her stand out. In a historical context, this favor is significant as it sets the stage for Esther's rise in a foreign court, highlighting God's providence and the unfolding of His plan through seemingly ordinary events.

and gained his favor
"Gained his favor" is a critical phrase that underscores the divine orchestration in Esther's life. The Hebrew word "chesed" often translated as "favor" or "loving-kindness," implies a deeper, covenantal love and mercy. This favor is not merely human preference but suggests a divine intervention where God inclines the hearts of others towards His chosen instruments. In the broader scriptural context, this reflects the theme of God's sovereignty and grace working through human affairs.

So he quickly provided her
The word "quickly" indicates urgency and eagerness in Hegai's actions. The Hebrew root "mahar" conveys a sense of haste, suggesting that Hegai was not only impressed but also motivated to act swiftly on Esther's behalf. This rapid provision can be seen as a reflection of God's timely intervention, ensuring that Esther is prepared for her future role in saving her people.

with beauty treatments and special food
"Beauty treatments" and "special food" refer to the preparations necessary for a woman to be presented to the king. The Hebrew term for "beauty treatments" is "tamruq," which involves purification and adornment processes. This preparation is symbolic of the spiritual and physical readiness required for a significant calling. The "special food" indicates nourishment that sets Esther apart, possibly reflecting the favor and provision of God in her life, ensuring she is equipped for her destiny.

He assigned to her seven chosen maidens
The number "seven" in biblical terms often symbolizes completeness or perfection. The assignment of "seven chosen maidens" suggests a fullness of support and resources provided to Esther. This provision can be seen as God's perfect arrangement, ensuring Esther is surrounded by the necessary support system. Historically, this also reflects the opulence and structure of the Persian court, where such arrangements were a sign of honor and status.

from the king’s palace
The phrase "from the king’s palace" indicates the origin of the maidens, emphasizing their quality and the honor bestowed upon Esther. Being from the palace suggests that these maidens were well-trained and accustomed to royal protocols, further highlighting the special favor Esther received. This detail underscores the theme of divine elevation from humble beginnings to a place of influence and authority.

and moved her and her maids to the best place in the harem
"Moved her and her maids to the best place" signifies a strategic positioning within the harem. The "best place" implies a place of prominence and favor, setting Esther apart from the other women. This relocation is a physical manifestation of the favor she has found, both with Hegai and ultimately with God. In a broader theological context, it reflects the biblical theme of God positioning His people for His purposes, often in ways that are beyond human understanding or expectation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Esther
- A Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, who becomes queen of Persia. Her Hebrew name is Hadassah.

2. Hegai
- The king's eunuch in charge of the harem, who shows favor to Esther.

3. The Harem
- The royal residence where the king's concubines and potential queens were kept.

4. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
- The Persian king during Esther's time.

5. Maidens
- The young women chosen to serve Esther, indicating her favored status.

Teaching Points

Divine Favor
Esther's account illustrates how God can grant favor in the eyes of others to fulfill His purposes. Believers should seek to live in a way that honors God, trusting Him to open doors and provide opportunities.

Preparation and Provision
Just as Esther was given beauty treatments and special food, God equips His people with what they need for the tasks He sets before them. We should be diligent in preparing ourselves spiritually and practically for God's calling.

Position and Influence
Esther's elevation to a place of influence reminds us that God places us in specific positions for His purposes. We should be mindful of how we can use our influence to serve His kingdom.

Community and Support
The assignment of maidens to Esther highlights the importance of community and support in fulfilling God's plans. Believers should seek and provide support within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Esther's experience of finding favor with Hegai encourage you in your current circumstances?

2. In what ways can you prepare yourself for the opportunities God may present to you, as Esther was prepared with beauty treatments and special food?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's favor in a situation. How did it impact your faith and actions?

4. How can you use your current position or influence to serve God's purposes, as Esther did?

5. What role does community play in your spiritual journey, and how can you cultivate supportive relationships like those between Esther and her maidens?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 39:4
- Joseph found favor in the eyes of Potiphar, similar to how Esther found favor with Hegai. Both instances show God's providence in elevating His people.

Daniel 1:9
- Daniel was shown favor and compassion by the chief official, paralleling Esther's experience with Hegai.

Proverbs 3:3-4
- The importance of finding favor and good repute in the sight of God and man, as demonstrated by Esther's account.