of Persian origin; Karkas, a eunuch of Xerxes; Carcas.
Transliteration:Karkaç
Pronunciation:kar-kas'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma `{{H3752}}`, כַּרְכַּס (Karkaç), is a proper noun of Persian origin. Its base definition explicitly identifies it as "Karkas, a eunuch of Xerxes." As a proper noun, its semantic range is exceptionally narrow, referring exclusively to a specific individual within the historical context of the Persian Empire. It does not carry broader conceptual, theological, or metaphorical meanings beyond its function as a personal identifier. The foreign origin of the name highlights the multi-ethnic composition of the Persian court.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Karkas appears only once in the biblical text, in the book of Esther.
* **[[Esther 1:10]]**: "On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, Zethar, and Karkas, the seven eunuchs who served in the presence of King Ahasuerus, to bring Queen Vashti before the king with her royal crown, in order to show the peoples and the princes her beauty, for she was lovely to behold."
In this sole occurrence, Karkas is listed among the seven eunuchs (or chamberlains) who attended King Ahasuerus (Xerxes). Their role was to serve the king directly and execute his commands, particularly concerning the royal household and the women of the harem. This specific command, to bring Queen Vashti before the king, is pivotal, as Vashti's refusal sets in motion the chain of events that ultimately leads to her dethronement and Esther's eventual rise to queen. Karkas's mention is purely descriptive, identifying him as a part of the king's immediate retinue, a historical detail that grounds the narrative in the realities of the Persian court. He is not a character with agency or a developed role beyond his function as a royal servant.
### Related Words & Concepts
As a proper noun, Karkas does not have direct synonyms or antonyms. However, his identity is intrinsically linked to several key concepts and categories within the biblical narrative:
* **Eunuch (סָרִיס - `{{H5631}}`):** Karkas is identified as a eunuch, a term that in ancient Near Eastern courts often referred to high-ranking officials who were trusted attendants of the monarch, not necessarily implying castration but a position of close proximity and service, particularly within the royal palace and harem. These officials frequently wielded significant influence.
* **Persian Court:** Karkas's existence is entirely situated within the opulent and complex environment of the Persian Empire under King Ahasuerus (`{{H325}}`). His presence underscores the historical and geographical setting of the Book of Esther, highlighting the diverse personnel serving the king.
* **Royal Service:** His role exemplifies the concept of service to an earthly monarch, particularly in a context of absolute power. His obedience, along with that of the other eunuchs, is essential for the king's commands to be carried out.
### Theological Significance
Karkas, as a minor character and a proper noun, holds no direct theological significance in himself. He is not a figure of faith, a prophet, or a representative of divine principles. His importance lies in his contribution to the broader narrative of the Book of Esther. While the book uniquely does not explicitly mention God, it is widely understood to illustrate divine providence and God's sovereign hand at work in history, even through secular events and the actions of pagan rulers and their servants. Karkas's role, however small, as one of the king's obedient servants, contributes to the unfolding of events that ultimately lead to the preservation of the Jewish people. His inclusion, along with the other eunuchs, lends historical verisimilitude to the narrative, grounding the subtle portrayal of God's overarching plan within concrete historical and cultural details. The very precision of naming such minor figures reinforces the historical authenticity of the account, thereby subtly underscoring the reliability of the narrative through which God's purposes are revealed.
### Summary
Karkas (`{{H3752}}`, כַּרְכַּס) is a proper noun of Persian origin, referring specifically to one of the seven eunuchs who served King Ahasuerus (Xerxes) in the book of Esther. He is mentioned solely in [[Esther 1:10]], where he is commanded, along with six other eunuchs, to bring Queen Vashti before the king. His significance is purely contextual, serving as a minor character who facilitates the narrative's progression, particularly the events leading to Vashti's dethronement and Esther's subsequent elevation. While Karkas himself carries no inherent theological meaning, his presence contributes to the historical authenticity of the Book of Esther, which subtly portrays God's providential working through human agents and political circumstances to protect His chosen people. His role underscores the detailed and historically grounded nature of the biblical narrative, even in its depiction of foreign courts and their officials.
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