### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The proper name **Zêthar**, represented by `{{H2242}}`, is of Persian origin. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible and identifies **Zethar, a eunuch of Xerxes**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Zethar's sole appearance is in the book of Esther. He is listed as one of the **seven** `{{H7651}}` **chamberlains** `{{H5631}}` who were **commanded** `{{H559}}` by **King** `{{H4428}}` **Ahasuerus** `{{H325}}`. This event occurs on the **seventh** `{{H7637}}` **day** `{{H3117}}` of a royal feast, at a moment when the king's **heart** `{{H3820}}` was **merry** `{{H2896}}` with **wine** `{{H3196}}` [[Esther 1:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of Zethar's role:
* `{{H5631}}` **çârîyç**: This word for **chamberlain** or **eunuch** defines Zethar's official position in the king's court. These individuals were often ministers of state or high-ranking officers, as seen in the courts of both Persia [[Esther 1:10]] and Babylon [[Daniel 1:8]].
* `{{H325}}` **ʼĂchashvêrôwsh**: This is the name **Ahasuerus**, the Persian **king** `{{H4428}}` whom Zethar served. He is the central royal figure in the book of Esther, who promoted Haman after the events initiated by the command given to Zethar [[Esther 3:1]].
* `{{H8334}}` **shârath**: This verb, meaning to **serve** or **minister**, describes the duty performed by Zethar and his colleagues in the **presence** `{{H6440}}` of the king. It highlights their role as royal attendants [[Esther 1:10]] and is the same word used for priests who **minister** to the LORD [[Joel 2:17]].
### Theological Significance
While the person Zethar has limited direct significance, his context provides insight into the narrative's themes:
* **Service in a Foreign Court**: Zethar's role as a **chamberlain** `{{H5631}}` to a Gentile **king** `{{H4428}}` shows how individuals in secular power structures are part of the unfolding biblical story. Their actions, whether willing or unwitting, contribute to the outworking of a greater plan.
* **Human Decision and Divine Providence**: The command given to Zethar and his fellow chamberlains was prompted by the king's **heart** `{{H3820}}` being **merry** `{{H2896}}` with **wine** `{{H3196}}`. This detail illustrates how a pivotal event in the story of Esther was set in motion by a rash human decision made in a moment of indulgence [[Esther 1:10]].
* **The Number Seven**: Zethar was one of **seven** `{{H7651}}` chamberlains. In scripture, the number seven often denotes a sense of fullness or completion, as seen in the **seventh** `{{H7637}}` day of creation [[Genesis 2:3]]. In this context, it signifies the full group of trusted officers assigned to this specific royal task [[Esther 1:10]].
### Summary
In summary, **Zêthar** `{{H2242}}` is a minor figure mentioned by name only once in scripture. His identity as one of seven **chamberlains** `{{H5631}}` serving **King** `{{H4428}}` **Ahasuerus** `{{H325}}` places him at a critical juncture that initiates the main conflict of the book of Esther. Though briefly mentioned, the context of his role highlights the interplay of human authority and divine sovereignty that is central to the biblical narrative.
TRV