### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Marçᵉnâʼ**, represented by `{{H4826}}`, is a proper name identifying a **Persian** nobleman. It is of foreign derivation and appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. The name serves to identify a specific individual within the highest echelons of the Persian government during the time of the book of Esther.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of **Marçᵉnâʼ** is in the list of the king's most trusted advisors in [[Esther 1:14]]. He is named as one of the **seven** `{{H7651}}` **princes** `{{H8269}}` of **Persia** `{{H6539}}` and **Media** `{{H4074}}`. This elite group had special privileges, described as those who "saw the king's face" `{{H7200}}`, indicating they had direct access to the monarch. Their status was unparalleled, as they "sat the first in the kingdom" (`{{H3427}}`, `{{H7223}}`), holding the most prominent positions of authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words and names provide context for Marsena's position and the world he inhabited:
* `{{H3771}}` **Karshᵉnâʼ** (Carshena, a courtier of Xerxes): One of the other six princes listed alongside Marsena, part of the same council [[Esther 1:14]].
* `{{H4462}}` **Mᵉmûwkân** (Memucan, a Persian satrap): The final prince named in the council, who speaks on behalf of the group to address the issue with Queen Vashti [[Esther 1:16]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (prince): This title, applied to Marsena and his colleagues, denotes a head person, ruler, or chief captain within the empire's hierarchy [[Esther 1:14]].
* `{{H6539}}` **Pâraç** (Persia): The name of the vast Eastern country and empire where Marsena served as a high-ranking official [[Esther 1:14]].
### Theological Significance
While the name **Marçᵉnâʼ** itself does not carry theological weight, its context reveals the structure of power central to the narrative of Esther.
* **Proximity to Power:** Marsena was part of an exclusive council that "saw the king's face" (`{{H7200}}`, `{{H6440}}`), a Hebrew idiom signifying the highest level of trust and access to a sovereign ruler [[Esther 1:14]].
* **Supreme Counsel:** The group of seven princes, including Marsena, held the primary seats `{{H3427}}` of honor and influence, sitting **first** `{{H7223}}` in the **kingdom** `{{H4438}}`, establishing them as the chief advisors in the Persian government.
* **Imperial Authority:** As a **prince** `{{H8269}}` of **Persia** `{{H6539}}` and **Media** `{{H4074}}`, Marsena represents the human authority and political system within which God's purposes for His people would unfold.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4826}}` **Marçᵉnâʼ** is the name of a Persian official whose sole mention in scripture places him within the innermost circle of a powerful gentile kingdom. Though a minor character, his inclusion helps paint a detailed picture of the Persian court, establishing the political landscape for the dramatic events that follow in the book of Esther. He stands as a representative of the highest rank and influence in the empire.
TRV