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Commentary on Esther 2 verses 1–20
How God put down one that was high and mighty from her seat we read in the chapter before, and are now to be told how he exalted one of low degree, as the virgin Mary observes in her song (Luk 1:52) and Hannah before her, Sa1 2:4-8. Vashti being humbled for her height, Esther is advanced for her humility. Observe,
I. The extravagant course that was taken to please the king with another wife instead of Vashti. Josephus says that when his anger was over he was exceedingly grieved that the matter was carried so far, and would have been reconciled to Vashti but that, by the constitution of the government, the judgment was irrevocable - that therefore, to make him forget her, they contrived how to entertain him first with a great variety of concubines, and then to fix him to the most agreeable of them all for a wife instead of Vashti. The marriages of princes are commonly made by policy and interest, for the enlarging of their dominions and the strengthening of their alliances; but this must be made partly by the agreeableness of the person to the king's fancy, whether she was rich or poor, noble or ignoble. What pains were taken to humour the king! As if his power and wealth were given him for no other end than that he might have all the delights of the sense wound up to the height of pleasurableness, and exquisitely refined, though at the best they are but dross and dregs in comparison with divine and spiritual pleasures. 1. All the provinces of his kingdom must be searched for fair young virgins, and officers appointed to choose them, Est 2:3. 2. A house (a seraglio) was prepared on purpose for them, and a person appointed to have the charge of them, to see that they were well provided for. 3. No less than twelve months was allowed them for their purification, some of them at least who were brought out of the country, that they might be very clean, and perfumed, Est 2:12. Even those who were the masterpieces of nature must yet have all this help from art to recommend them to a vain and carnal mind. 4. After the king had once taken them to his bed, they were made recluses ever after, except the king pleased at any time to send for them (Est 2:14); they were looked upon as secondary wives, were maintained by the king accordingly, and might not marry. We may see, by this instance, to what absurd practices those came who were destitute of divine revelation, and who, as a punishment for their idolatry, were given up to vile affections. Having broken through that law of creation which resulted from God's making man, they broke through another law, which was founded upon his making one man and one woman. See what need there was of the gospel of Christ to purify men from the lusts of the flesh and to reduce them to the original institution. Those that have learned Christ will think it a shame even to speak of such things as these which were done of them, not only in secret, but avowedly, Eph 5:12.
II. The overruling providence of God thus brining Esther to be queen. Had she been recommended to Ahasuerus for a wife, he would have rejected the motion with disdain; but when she came in her turn, after several others, and it was found that though many of them were ingenious and discreet, graceful and agreeable, yet Esther excelled them all, way was made for her, even by her rivals, into the king's affections and the honours consequent thereupon. It is certain, as bishop Patrick says, that those who suggest that she committed a great sin to come at this dignity do not consider the custom of those times and countries. Every one that the king took to his bed was married to him, and was his wife of a lower rank, as Hagar was Abraham's; so that, if Esther had not been made queen, the sons of Jacob need not say that he dealt with their sister as with a harlot. Concerning Esther we must observe,
1.Her original and character. (1.) She was one of the children of the captivity, a Jewess and a sharer with her people in their bondage. Daniel and his fellows were advanced in the land where they were captives; for they were of those whom God sent thither for their good, Jer 24:5. (2.) She was an orphan; her father and mother were both dead (Est 2:7), but, when they had forsaken here, then the Lord took her up, Psa 27:10. When those whose unhappiness it is to be thus deprived of their parents in their childhood yet afterwards come to be eminently pious and prosperous, we ought to take notice of it to the glory of that God, and his grace and providence, who has taken it among the titles of his honour to be a Father of the fatherless. (3.) She was a beauty, fair of form, good of countenance; so it is in the margin, Est 2:7. Her wisdom and virtue were her greatest beauty, but it is an advantage to be a diamond to be well set. (4.) Mordecai, her cousin-german, was her guardian, brought her up, and took her for his own daughter. The Septuagint says that he designed to make her his wife; if that were so, he was to be praised that he opposed not her better preferment. let God be acknowledged in raising up friends for the fatherless and motherless; let it be an encouragement to that pious instance of charity that many who have taken care of the education of orphans have lived to see the good fruit of their care and pains, abundantly to their comfort. Dr. Lightfoot thinks that this Mordecai is the same with that mentioned in Ezr 2:2, who went up to Jerusalem with the first, and helped forward the settlement of his people until the building of the temple was stopped, and then went back to the Persian court, to see what service he could do them there. Mordecai being Esther's guardian or pro-parent, we are told, [1.] How tender he was of her, as if she had been his own child (Est 2:11): he walked before her door every day, to know how she did, and what interest she had. Let those whose relations are thus cast upon them by divine Providence be thus kindly affectioned to them and solicitous for them. [2.] How respectful she was to him. Though in relation she was his equal, yet, being in age and dependence his inferior, she honoured him as her father - did his commandment, Est 2:20. This is an example to orphans; if they fall into the hands of those who love them and take care of them, let them make suitable returns of duty and affection. The less obliged their guardians were in duty to provide for them the more obliged they are in gratitude to honour and obey their guardians. Here is an instance of Esther's obsequiousness t Mordecai, that she did not show her people of her kindred, because Mordecai had charged her that she should not, Est 2:10. he did not bid her deny her country, nor tell a lie to conceal her parentage; if he had told her to do so, she must not have done it. But he only told her not to proclaim her country. All truths are not to be spoken at all times, though an untruth is not to be spoken at any time. She being born in Shushan, and her parents being dead, all took her to be of Persian extraction, and she was not bound to undeceive them.
2.Her preferment. Who would have thought that a Jewess, a captive, and orphan, was born to be a queen, an empress! Yet so it proved. Providence sometimes raiseth up the poor out of the dust, to set them among princes, Sa1 2:8. (1.) The king's chamberlain honoured her (Est 2:9), and was ready to serve her. Wisdom and virtue will gain respect. Those that make sure of God's favour shall find favour with man too as far as it is good for them. All that looked upon Esther admired her (Est 2:15) and concluded that she was the lady that would win the prize, and she did win it. (2.) The king himself fell in love with her. She was not solicitous, as the rest of the maidens were, to set herself off with artificial beauty; she required nothing but just what was appointed for her (Est 2:15) and yet she was most acceptable. The more natural beauty is the more agreeable. The king loved Esther above all the women, v. 17. Now he needed not to make any further trials, or take time to deliberate; he is soon determined to set the royal crown upon her head, and make her queen, v. 17. This was done in his seventh year (v. 16) and Vashti was divorced in his third year (Est 1:3); so that he was four years without a queen. Notice is taken, [1.] Of the honours the king put upon Esther. He graced the solemnity of her coronation with a royal feast (Est 2:18), at which perhaps Esther, in compliance with the king, made a public appearance, which Vashti had refused to do, that she might have the praise of obedience in the same instance in which the other incurred the blot of disobedience. He also granted a release to the provinces, either a remittance of the taxes in arrear or an act of grace for criminals; as Pilate, at the feast, released a prisoner. This was to add t the joy. [2.] Of the deference Esther continued to pay to her former guardian. She still did the commandment of Mordecai, as when she was brought up with him, Est 2:20. Mordecai say in the king's gate; that was the height of his preferment: he was one of the porters or door-keepers of the court. Whether he had this place before, or whether Esther obtained it for him, we are not told; but there he sat contentedly, and aimed no higher; and yet Esther who was advanced to the throne was observant of him. This was an evidence of a humble and grateful disposition, that she had a sense of his former kindnesses and his continued wisdom. It is a great ornament to those that are advanced, and much to their praise, to remember their benefactors, to retain the impressions of their good education, to be diffident of themselves, willing to take advice, and thankful for it.
It says “in the course of time,” i.e. once the five ages of the world—during which the posterity of the Fathers was gaining ground, and the institution of the Law was flourishing among the Jews—had come to an end, and a sixth age was at hand when, with the arrival of the Redeemer, a multitude from among the nations would be brought together through the Gospel. For it was then that Esther in the allegorical sense, i.e. the Church, was being brought from among the nations to Christ the king through the apostles’ preaching, and by means of the belief of robust faith and the sacrament of baptism; she was shapely, and in the incredible beauty of her virtues she appeared gracious and lovely to all who saw her. The apostle Paul mentions this period when he writes to the Galatians, as follows: “After the fullness of time had come, God sent his own Son born from a woman, made under the Law so that he might redeem those who were under the Law, so that we might receive the adoption given to children” (Galatians 4). And to the Ephesians: “God, who is rich in mercy, revived us together with Christ by whose grace you were saved, because of the great charity with which he loved us even though we were dead through our sins; and he revived us with him, and had us sit with him in the heavens in Christ Jesus to show in the ages to come the abundant riches of his grace in his goodness toward us in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2).
It is evident that the magnificent banquet for Esther’s wedding, prepared for both the princes and the people, represents the greatest bliss that is enjoyed by the entire human race, both great and small, for the spiritual union of Christ with the church. In this banquet, in fact, no carnal foods are consumed by those who are worthy to participate in it. Instead they consume a spiritual diet of wisdom and virtue. In this banquet, all the faithful receive the holy mysteries of the body and blood of the Lord as a remedy for their salvation. Here the meal of eternal life resides. And our king gives peace to all the provinces, and bestows abundant gifts in freeing those who believe in him from the weight of sins, and rewarding them with spiritual gifts. Therefore he himself says in the gospel, “Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
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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 requiring nothing beyond what Hegai, the king's chamberlain and keeper 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 strategically 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, as recounted in Esther 1:12. The preceding verses describe the extensive gathering of beautiful young virgins from across the vast Persian Empire to the palace in Susa, where they underwent a rigorous twelve-month purification and beautification regimen under the meticulous care of Hegai, the chief eunuch responsible for the royal harem, as detailed in Esther 2:3-14. Esther, an orphaned Jewess adopted by her cousin Mordecai, whose background is introduced in Esther 2:7, has been presented as one of these contestants. Verse 15 specifically highlights her appointed turn to go in to the king, emphasizing her unique conduct and the immediate, widespread positive reception she received. This distinct behavior and the favor she garnered directly precede her being chosen as queen in Esther 2:17.
Historical & Cultural Context: The Persian Empire, at its zenith under Ahasuerus (commonly identified with Xerxes I, who reigned from 486-465 BC), was an expansive and formidable dominion. The practice of maintaining a royal harem, comprising numerous concubines and potential queens, was a standard feature of ancient Near Eastern monarchies, reflecting the king's power and prestige. The queen selection process described in Esther was a lengthy and elaborate affair, underscoring the king's absolute authority and the paramount importance placed on royal beauty, protocol, and the maintenance of the royal lineage. The "twelve months" of purification, involving six months with oil of myrrh and six months with sweet odours (as mentioned in Esther 2:12), served both cosmetic and ritualistic purposes, preparing the women physically and ceremonially for their 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, palace etiquette, and the intricate customs of the court. Esther's reliance on his counsel was not merely an act of humility but also a culturally astute and pragmatic decision, as Hegai was undoubtedly the expert in what would most effectively please the monarch.
Key Themes: Esther 2:15 powerfully contributes to several key themes woven throughout 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 notably never explicitly mentioned in the book, His unseen hand is unmistakably evident in how circumstances align to elevate Esther to her strategic position. This verse also highlights the theme of Humility and Wisdom, as Esther's unassuming nature and her willingness to trust expert counsel stand in stark contrast to potential self-promotion or ostentatious display, ultimately leading to her exaltation. Her actions demonstrate that true influence and success may often stem from quiet discernment and submission rather than overt striving. Furthermore, the verse introduces and reinforces the theme of Preparation for Purpose, showing how Esther's extensive period of purification and her humble conduct were integral steps in God's sovereign plan to position her for her future, crucial role in saving the Jewish people. This role is powerfully foreshadowed by the remarkable favor she received from "all them that looked upon her," echoing similar narratives of divine preparation for individuals chosen for specific assignments, such as the training of Joseph in Egypt or Moses in Pharaoh's court.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices that enhance its narrative and thematic depth. Contrast is strikingly 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 and extravagant demands, Esther's profound humility in requiring "nothing but what Hegai... appointed" sets her apart, highlighting her unique character and wisdom. 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 powerful form of Foreshadowing, hinting at Esther's future success and her remarkable ability to gain influence, which will prove absolutely crucial for her pivotal role in saving her people. The widespread nature of this favor, extending to "all them that looked upon her," also suggests an element of Hyperbole, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of her appeal and the underlying divine hand at work in her elevation, preparing her for the unseen challenges ahead.
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: chên) is a recurring biblical motif, often signifying divine grace and approval that supernaturally 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 ostentatious outward show, but often through a spirit of humility, obedience, and trust. God's providence, though unmentioned explicitly in the book of Esther, is unmistakably present, orchestrating events to bring about His will through the seemingly ordinary choices of individuals.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Esther 2:15 offers profound and timeless lessons for contemporary believers. In a world that often values self-promotion, outward appearances, and aggressive ambition as pathways to success, 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, discernment, and profound trust that ultimately led to her elevation. This verse encourages us to critically examine where we place our trust and how we seek to gain influence or achieve our goals. Is it primarily through striving for external validation, or through cultivating inner character, diligently seeking wise counsel, and trusting that God can open doors in unexpected ways, even when His hand is not overtly visible? 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 and often unseen purposes.
Questions for Reflection
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 profound demonstration of humility, wisdom, and trust. Unlike other contestants who might have sought to impress the king with elaborate personal adornments or specific demands, Esther understood that Hegai, as the king's chamberlain and 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 remarkable lack of self-aggrandizement and a willingness to submit to the established process. This unassuming approach ultimately set her apart and uniquely positioned her for the king's favor, demonstrating that true influence can arise from quiet discernment.
What does "favour" mean in this context, and why was it significant?
Answer: The "favour" (Hebrew: chên) Esther obtained signifies a widespread, positive reception and approval from all who observed her, extending beyond just the king. While it certainly encompassed her physical beauty, chên in biblical usage often implies a deeper, almost divinely bestowed grace or charm that elicits kindness, acceptance, and goodwill. 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 powerfully foreshadowed her future influence, which would be instrumental in saving her people. It subtly points to God's providential hand at work, even though God is not explicitly mentioned as the source of this favor in the text itself.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Esther's story, particularly her humble demeanor and the widespread favor she received, serves as a profound prefigurement of Christ. Just as Esther "required nothing" of her own, relying on the expert guidance of Hegai, so too did Jesus, the ultimate Son, perfectly empty Himself, taking the form of a servant and humbling Himself, even to the point of death on a cross, as described in Philippians 2:7-8. He did not seek His own glory or demand earthly adornments, but perfectly submitted to the will of His Father, declaring, "I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me" (John 5:30). The "favor" Esther received, which ultimately 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). Christ is the one upon whom all divine favor rests, the beloved Son in whom God is eternally well pleased (Matthew 3:17). Furthermore, through Christ, believers are invited into this divine favor, receiving grace upon grace (John 1:16), becoming co-heirs with Him and partakers of His royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). Esther's preparation and favor ultimately served to save her people from destruction, just as Christ's perfect life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection secured eternal salvation and deliverance for all who believe, demonstrating the ultimate divine plan of rescue through humility, obedience, and sovereign grace.