### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Hêgêʼ**, represented by `{{H1896}}`, refers to a specific individual, **Hege or Hegai**. This name, likely of Persian origin, identifies a eunuch of King Xerxes. It appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Esther.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1896}}` is the name of the man tasked with a crucial role in the king's court. He is identified as the king's **chamberlain** `{{H5631}}` and the **keeper** `{{H8104}}` of the **women** `{{H802}}` [[Esther 2:3]]. When young virgins were gathered from all provinces of the kingdom, they were placed "to the **custody** `{{H3027}}` of Hegai" [[Esther 2:8]]. His duties included overseeing the house of the women and providing for their needs, such as their "things for purification" [[Esther 2:3]]. Esther herself was brought into the king's house and committed to Hegai's care [[Esther 2:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify Hegai's position and responsibilities within the royal court:
* `{{H5631}}` **çârîyç**: This word for a **chamberlain, eunuch, officer** is used as Hegai's official title, establishing his status as a minister of state within the king's service [[Esther 2:3]].
* `{{H8104}}` **shâmar**: Meaning to **guard** or **keep**, this term defines Hegai's primary function as the **keeper** of the women, entrusted with their protection and oversight [[Esther 2:8]].
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd**: While its primary meaning is **hand**, this word is used here to signify **custody** or authority. The women were delivered into the **custody** of Hegai, placing them under his direct charge [[Esther 2:8]].
* `{{H802}}` **ʼishshâh**: This general term for **woman** is used to identify the group of individuals placed under Hegai's guardianship [[Esther 2:15]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H1896}}` is found in Hegai's specific role in the ascent of Esther. He was not merely a guard but an influential administrator in a critical state affair.
* **Administrative Authority:** Hegai was the central figure responsible for all the women gathered for the king. Officers `{{H6496}}` were `appointed` `{{H6485}}` to find the maidens, but they were all ultimately placed under his management [[Esther 2:3]].
* **Guardian of the Harem:** His title as "keeper of the women" `{{H8104}}` underscores a position of immense trust, as he was responsible for the well-being and preparation of potential queens.
* **Instrument in Esther's Rise:** Hegai's guidance was directly sought by Esther. When her turn came to go to the king, she "required nothing but what Hegai...appointed," a decision that was followed by her obtaining favor in the sight of all [[Esther 2:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1896}}` is not a theological concept but the proper name of a key official in the book of Esther. As Hegai, the king's **chamberlain** `{{H5631}}` and **keeper** `{{H8104}}` of the women, he held a significant position of trust and administrative power. He was an important figure in the palace proceedings, and his counsel appears to have been instrumental in the events that led to Esther becoming queen.
TRV