Esther 2:13

When the young woman would go to the king, she was given whatever she requested to take with her from the harem to the king's palace.

Study Bible

Then the young woman
This phrase refers to the virgins selected for King Xerxes' consideration. In the Hebrew text, the word for "young woman" is "na'arah," which denotes a young, unmarried woman. This highlights the innocence and purity expected of those brought before the king. Historically, these women were chosen from across the Persian Empire, emphasizing the vastness of Xerxes' rule and the diverse backgrounds of the women.

would go to the king
The phrase indicates the culmination of a year-long preparation process. The Hebrew verb "bo" (to go) suggests a formal and significant event. This was not a casual meeting but a moment of great importance, as each woman had the opportunity to become queen. The king's chamber was a place of power and decision, reflecting the gravity of this encounter.

and she was given whatever she requested
This phrase underscores the generosity and freedom granted to each woman before meeting the king. The Hebrew word "nathan" (to give) implies a bestowal of favor. This provision allowed the women to present themselves in the best possible light, symbolizing the king's wealth and the importance of the occasion. It also reflects the cultural practices of the time, where appearance and presentation were highly valued.

to take with her from the harem
The harem, or "beit hanashim" in Hebrew, was a secluded part of the palace where the women lived. This phrase indicates that the women could choose items that would enhance their appeal to the king. The harem was a place of both privilege and confinement, reflecting the dual nature of their situation—honored yet restricted.

to the palace
The palace, or "beit hamelech" in Hebrew, was the center of royal authority and power. This phrase signifies the transition from the harem to the king's presence, a journey from preparation to potential elevation. The palace was not just a physical location but a symbol of the king's dominion and the possibility of becoming part of the royal household. This journey represents a pivotal moment in each woman's life, filled with hope and uncertainty.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Esther
A Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia. Her account is central to the book of Esther, highlighting her courage and faith.

2. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who seeks a new queen, leading to Esther's rise to royalty.

3. Harem
The royal residence where the king's wives and concubines lived. It was a place of preparation for the women before meeting the king.

4. Palace
The royal residence of King Ahasuerus, where significant decisions and events unfold.

5. Young Women
Refers to the virgins gathered from the empire to potentially become the new queen, including Esther.

Teaching Points

Divine Preparation
God prepares His people for His purposes, often in ways that are not immediately visible. Esther's preparation in the harem was part of God's larger plan for her life and the salvation of her people.

God's Sovereignty
Even in a pagan environment, God's hand is at work. Esther's rise to queen was not by chance but by divine orchestration.

Inner Beauty and Character
While the young women were adorned with physical beauty, Esther's account reminds us that true beauty comes from character and faithfulness to God.

Courage and Faith
Esther's journey to the palace required courage and trust in God. Believers are called to step out in faith, trusting God's plan even when the path is uncertain.

Influence and Responsibility
With position and influence comes responsibility. Esther's role as queen was not just for her benefit but for the deliverance of her people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Esther's preparation in the harem reflect God's preparation in our own lives for His purposes?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in situations that seem secular or outside of our control?

3. How can we cultivate inner beauty and character in a world that often emphasizes outward appearance?

4. What steps can we take to demonstrate courage and faith in challenging circumstances, as Esther did?

5. How can we use our positions and influence to serve God's purposes and help others, following Esther's example?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24
The account of Rebekah being prepared to meet Isaac parallels the preparation of the young women in Esther, emphasizing divine providence in marriage.

Proverbs 31
The description of a virtuous woman can be seen in Esther's character, as she embodies wisdom and strength.

1 Peter 3:3-4
The emphasis on inner beauty over outward adornment connects to Esther's account, where her character and faith are more significant than her physical beauty.