Esther 2:15

KJV

Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her for his daughter, was come to go in unto the king, she required nothing but what Hegai the king's chamberlain, the keeper of the women, appointed. And Esther obtained favour in the sight of all them that looked upon her.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now when the turn {H8447} of Esther {H635}, the daughter {H1323} of Abihail {H32} the uncle {H1730} of Mordecai {H4782}, who had taken {H3947} her for his daughter {H1323}, was come {H5060} to go in {H935} unto the king {H4428}, she required {H1245} nothing {H1697} but what Hegai {H1896} the king's {H4428} chamberlain {H5631}, the keeper {H8104} of the women {H802}, appointed {H559}. And Esther {H635} obtained {H5375} favour {H2580} in the sight {H5869} of all them that looked {H7200} upon her.

Complete Jewish Bible

When the turn came for Ester the daughter of Avichayil, whom Mordekhai had adopted as his own daughter, to appear before the king, she didn't ask for anything other than what Hegai the king's officer in charge of the harem advised. Yet Ester was admired by all who saw her.

Berean Standard Bible

Now Esther was the daughter of Abihail, the uncle from whom Mordecai had adopted her as his own daughter. And when it was her turn to go to the king, she did not ask for anything except what Hegai, the king’s trusted official in charge of the harem, had advised. And Esther found favor in the eyes of everyone who saw her.

American Standard Version

Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her for his daughter, was come to go in unto the king, she required nothing but what Hegai the king’s chamberlain, the keeper of the women, appointed. And Esther obtained favor in the sight of all them that looked upon her.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Esther 2:15 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, detailing Esther's presentation to King Ahasuerus. Unlike the other contestants vying for the queen's position, Esther demonstrated remarkable humility and wisdom by requesting nothing beyond what Hegai, the king's eunuch in charge of the women, deemed appropriate. This unassuming approach, coupled with an inherent grace, resulted in her obtaining widespread favor from all who observed her, setting the stage for her elevation to queen and her crucial role in the salvation of her people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of King Ahasuerus's search for a new queen, following Queen Vashti's deposition for her refusal to appear before him [Esther 1:12](/esther/1-12 "Esther 1:12 - Vashti's Disobedience"). The preceding verses describe the gathering of beautiful young virgins from across the Persian Empire to the palace in Susa, where they underwent a rigorous twelve-month purification and beautification regimen under the care of Hegai [Esther 2:3-14](/esther/2-3 "Esther 2:3-14 - The Selection Process"). Esther, an orphaned Jewess adopted by her cousin Mordecai [Esther 2:7](/esther/2-7 "Esther 2:7 - Esther's Background"), has been introduced as one of these contestants. Verse 15 specifically highlights her turn to go in to the king, emphasizing her unique conduct and the immediate positive reception she received, which directly precedes her being chosen as queen in [Esther 2:17](/esther/2-17 "Esther 2:17 - Esther Becomes Queen").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Persian Empire, at its height under Ahasuerus (often identified with Xerxes I, 486-465 BC), was a vast and powerful dominion. The practice of maintaining a royal harem, with numerous concubines and potential queens, was common in ancient Near Eastern monarchies. The selection process described in Esther was a lengthy and elaborate affair, reflecting the king's absolute authority and the importance placed on royal beauty and protocol. The "twelve months" of purification (six months with oil of myrrh and six months with sweet odours, [Esther 2:12](/esther/2-12 "Esther 2:12 - The Purification Regimen")) served both cosmetic and ritualistic purposes, preparing the women for presentation to the king. Hegai, as "the king's chamberlain" and "keeper of the women," held a position of significant trust and authority, being intimately familiar with the king's preferences and palace etiquette. Esther's reliance on his counsel was not merely an act of humility but also a culturally astute decision, as Hegai was the expert in what would please the monarch.

* **Key Themes:** Esther 2:15 powerfully contributes to several key themes within the book of Esther. The theme of **Divine Providence** is subtly yet profoundly underscored by Esther's widespread favor, which is presented as something beyond mere human charm or beauty. Though God is never explicitly mentioned in the book, His unseen hand is evident in how circumstances align to elevate Esther. This verse also highlights the theme of **Humility and Wisdom**, as Esther's unassuming nature and willingness to trust expert counsel stand in stark contrast to potential self-promotion, ultimately leading to her exaltation. Her actions demonstrate that true influence and success may stem from quiet discernment rather than ostentatious display. Furthermore, the verse introduces the theme of **Preparation for Purpose**, showing how Esther's period of purification and her humble conduct were integral steps in God's sovereign plan to position her for her future role in saving the Jewish people, a role foreshadowed by the remarkable favor she received from "all them that looked upon her." This preparation is a recurring motif in biblical narratives, where individuals are equipped for their divine assignments, as seen in the training of Joseph [Genesis 39](/genesis/39 "Genesis 39 - Joseph in Potiphar's House") or Moses [Exodus 2](/exodus/2 "Exodus 2 - Moses' Early Life").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Required (Hebrew, _biqsheh'_):** This verb, derived from the root _baqash_, means "to seek," "to ask," or "to demand." In this context, it signifies Esther's choice not to "seek" or "demand" anything extra for her presentation. Other contestants were free to choose elaborate garments and jewels to enhance their appearance, but Esther "required nothing" beyond what Hegai, the expert in the king's preferences, deemed necessary. This deliberate restraint highlights her humility, lack of self-promotion, and trust in the guidance provided, setting her apart from the other women and underscoring her unique character.
* **Favour (Hebrew, _chen_'):** This crucial term denotes "grace," "charm," "favor," or "kindness." It implies a pleasing quality that elicits a positive response from others. In biblical usage, _chen_ often carries a connotation of divine blessing or special approval, as seen in Noah finding _chen_ in the eyes of the Lord [Genesis 6:8](/genesis/6-8 "Genesis 6:8 - Noah Finds Favor"). Here, Esther's obtaining _chen_ "in the sight of all them that looked upon her" suggests more than just physical attractiveness; it indicates a widespread, almost supernatural, approval and acceptance that transcends mere human judgment, pointing to a providential hand at work.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her for his daughter, was come to go in unto the king,"**: This opening clause precisely identifies Esther and her familial background, reiterating her relationship with Mordecai, who had adopted her. It establishes the specific moment—her appointed turn—within the ongoing selection process, emphasizing the culmination of her year-long preparation and the gravity of her impending encounter with the king.
* **"she required nothing but what Hegai the king's chamberlain, the keeper of the women, appointed."**: This is the core of Esther's distinctive behavior. Unlike other women who might have used this opportunity to demand lavish adornments or special privileges to impress the king, Esther chose a path of humility and submission to authority. Hegai, as the expert, knew the king's tastes and the palace protocols best. Esther's willingness to rely solely on his professional judgment demonstrates remarkable wisdom and a lack of self-aggrandizement, trusting the process and the counsel provided rather than her own preferences or perceived needs.
* **"And Esther obtained favour in the sight of all them that looked upon her."**: This final clause reveals the immediate and profound consequence of Esther's approach. The "favour" (Hebrew: _chen_) she received was not limited to Hegai or the king but extended to "all" who saw her. This widespread approval suggests an inherent grace or a divinely orchestrated acceptance that went beyond physical beauty, marking her as uniquely special and setting her apart for the king's ultimate choice. This favor is a key indicator of God's providential hand, subtly guiding events towards His ultimate purpose for Esther and her people.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices. **Contrast** is evident in Esther's actions compared to what might be expected of other contestants. While others likely sought to enhance their appearance with personal choices, Esther's humility in requiring "nothing but what Hegai... appointed" sets her apart, highlighting her unique character. This also subtly employs **Irony**, as her lack of self-promotion and desire for external show paradoxically leads to greater favor and eventual exaltation. The phrase "obtained favour in the sight of all them that looked upon her" functions as a form of **Foreshadowing**, hinting at Esther's future success and her ability to gain influence, which will be crucial for her role in saving her people. The widespread nature of this favor also suggests an element of **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of her appeal and the divine hand at work in her elevation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Esther 2:15 profoundly illustrates the principle that God often works through humble means and unseen hands to achieve His grand purposes. Esther's quiet submission and reliance on wise counsel, rather than outward display or self-assertion, positioned her to receive widespread favor. This "favor" (Hebrew: _chen_) is a recurring biblical motif, often signifying divine grace and approval that opens doors and elevates individuals for specific tasks. It reminds us that true success and influence in God's economy are not always achieved through human striving or outward show, but often through a spirit of humility, obedience, and trust. God's providence, though unmentioned explicitly in Esther, is unmistakably present, orchestrating events to bring about His will through the seemingly ordinary choices of individuals.

* [Genesis 6:8](/genesis/6-8 "Genesis 6:8 - Noah Finds Favor with God")
* [Genesis 39:4](/genesis/39-4 "Genesis 39:4 - Joseph Finds Favor with Potiphar")
* [Proverbs 3:4](/proverbs/3-4 "Proverbs 3:4 - Finding Favor with God and Man")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Esther 2:15 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. In a world that often values self-promotion, outward appearances, and aggressive ambition, Esther's example of quiet humility and trust in wise counsel stands as a powerful counter-narrative. Her willingness to yield her personal preferences to Hegai's expert guidance demonstrates a maturity and discernment that ultimately led to her elevation. This verse encourages us to consider where we place our trust and how we seek to gain influence. Is it through striving for external validation, or through cultivating inner character, seeking wise counsel, and trusting that God can open doors in unexpected ways? It reminds us that divine favor often accompanies a humble spirit and a readiness to be guided, preparing us for roles and responsibilities we may not have anticipated, all for God's sovereign purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to rely on outward show or personal ambition rather than quiet humility and trust?**
* **Who are the "Hegais" in your life—wise counselors or authorities whose guidance you should trust more fully?**
* **How might cultivating a spirit of humility and seeking wise counsel open doors of favor or opportunity for you, even in unexpected ways?**
* **How does Esther's story encourage you to trust in God's unseen providence, even when circumstances seem ordinary or uncertain?**

### FAQ
**Why did Esther "require nothing" for her presentation to the king?**

Answer: Esther's decision to "require nothing" beyond what Hegai appointed was a demonstration of profound humility, wisdom, and trust. Unlike other contestants who might have sought to impress the king with elaborate personal adornments, Esther understood that Hegai, as the keeper of the women, knew the king's preferences and palace protocols best. Her reliance on his expert guidance, rather than her own preferences or perceived needs, showcased a lack of self-aggrandizement and a willingness to submit to the process. This unassuming approach ultimately set her apart and positioned her for the king's favor.

**What does "favour" mean in this context, and why was it significant?**

Answer: The "favour" (Hebrew: _chen_) Esther obtained signifies a widespread, positive reception and approval from all who observed her, not just the king. While it certainly included her physical beauty, _chen_ in biblical usage often implies a deeper, almost divinely bestowed grace or charm that elicits kindness and acceptance. Its significance lies in the fact that this favor was universal among those who saw her, indicating that she possessed an extraordinary quality that transcended mere human judgment. This widespread favor was crucial for her eventual elevation to queen and foreshadowed her future influence, which would be instrumental in saving her people, even though God is not explicitly mentioned as the source of this favor in the text.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Esther's story, particularly her humble demeanor and the favor she received, serves as a powerful prefigurement of Christ. Just as Esther "required nothing" of her own, relying on the guidance of Hegai, so too did Jesus, the ultimate Son, empty Himself, taking the form of a servant and humbling Himself, even to the point of death on a cross [Philippians 2:7-8](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7-8 - Christ's Humiliation"). He did not seek His own glory or demand earthly adornments, but perfectly submitted to the will of His Father [John 5:30](/john/5-30 "John 5:30 - Jesus' Obedience to the Father"). The "favor" Esther received, which elevated her to queenship, points to the ultimate exaltation of Christ. Because of His perfect obedience and humility, God "highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name" [Philippians 2:9](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9 - Christ's Exaltation"). Christ is the one upon whom all divine favor rests, the beloved Son in whom God is well pleased [Matthew 3:17](/matthew/3-17 "Matthew 3:17 - The Baptism of Jesus"). Furthermore, through Christ, believers are invited into this divine favor, receiving grace upon grace [John 1:16](/john/1-16 "John 1:16 - Grace for Grace"), becoming co-heirs with Him and partakers of His royal priesthood [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood"). Esther's preparation and favor ultimately served to save her people, just as Christ's perfect life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection secured eternal salvation for all who believe, demonstrating the ultimate divine plan of rescue through humility and grace.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Esther 2:3

And let the king appoint officers in all the provinces of his kingdom, that they may gather together all the fair young virgins unto Shushan the palace, to the house of the women, unto the custody of Hege the king's chamberlain, keeper of the women; and let their things for purification be given [them]:

Song Of Solomon 6:9

My dove, my undefiled is [but] one; she [is] the [only] one of her mother, she [is] the choice [one] of her that bare her. The daughters saw her, and blessed her; [yea], the queens and the concubines, and they praised her.

Esther 9:29

Then Esther the queen, the daughter of Abihail, and Mordecai the Jew, wrote with all authority, to confirm this second letter of Purim.

Acts 7:10

And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.

Song Of Solomon 8:10

I [am] a wall, and my breasts like towers: then was I in his eyes as one that found favour.

Esther 2:7

And he brought up Hadassah, that [is], Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid [was] fair and beautiful; whom Mordecai, when her father and mother were dead, took for his own daughter.

Esther 2:8

So it came to pass, when the king's commandment and his decree was heard, and when many maidens were gathered together unto Shushan the palace, to the custody of Hegai, that Esther was brought also unto the king's house, to the custody of Hegai, keeper of the women.