Ester 1

Ester 1

Henry wrote…But, though the name of God be not in it [Esther], the finger of God is directing many minute events for the bringing about of his people’s deliverance.” God Moves In A Mysterious Way by William Cowper God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform; He plants His footsteps in the sea, And rides upon the storm. Deep in unfathomable mines Of never-failing skill He treasures up His bright designs, And works His sovereign will. Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take, The clouds ye so much dread Are big with mercy, and shall break In blessings on your head. Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, But trust Him for His grace; Behind a frowning providence He hides a smiling face. His purposes will ripen fast, Unfolding every hour; The bud may have a bitter taste, But sweet will be the flower. Blind unbelief is sure to err, And scan his work in vain; God is His own interpreter, And He will make it plain. Play Vocal version by Gary Brumley Prayer and Providence - in Johnson was serving his men as chaplain on an inland in the South Pacific. He prepared to go on a bombing rain on Jap-occupied islands several hundred miles away. The mission was a complete success. On the homeward course the plane began to lose altitude and the engines seemed to fade out. But God had provided an island, and a safe landing was made. Later they learned that the enemy was just one –half mile in each direction, yet their landing had not been discovered. The staff sergeant came and said, “Chaplain, you have been telling us for months of the need of praying and believing God to answer in time of trouble, and that He does it right away. Now it is your chance to prove what you have been preaching. We’re out of gas, base several hundred miles away … and almost surrounded by japs.” Johnson began to pray and lay hold of the promises and believed that God would work a miracle. All afternoon he was on his knees. Night came and the crew slept on the ground. Johnson continues to pray. About 2 a.m. the staff sergeant was strangely around and walking to the water’s edge, discovered a metal float, which had drifted up on the beach – a barge on which was fifty barrels of high octane gasoline. In a few hours the crew reached their home base safely. An investigation revealed that the skipper of a U. S. tanker, finding his ship in sub infested waters, had his gasoline cargo removed so as to minimize the danger of a torpedo hit. Barrels were placed on barges and put adrift 600 miles from where Johnson and the plane crew were forced down. God had navigated one of these barges through wind and current and beached it fifty steps from the stranded men. QUESTION - Summary of the Book of Esther - Bible Survey WATCH VIDEO ANSWER - The Book of Esther does not specifically name its author. The most popular traditions are Mordecai (a major character in the Book of Esther), Ezra, and Nehemiah (who would have been familiar with Persian customs). Full article: Who wrote the book of Esther? Who was the author of Esther? Date of Writing: The Book of Esther was likely written between 460 and 350 B.C. Full article: When was Esther written? Purpose of Writing: The purpose of the Book of Esther is to display the providence of God, especially in regard to His chosen people, Israel. The Book of Esther records the institution of the Feast of Purim and the obligation of its perpetual observation. The Book of Esther was read at the Feast of Purim to commemorate the great deliverance of the Jewish nation brought about by God through Esther. Jews today still read Esther during Purim. Key Verses: Esther 2:15 - Now when the time came for Esther to go to the king, she asked for nothing other than what Hegai, the king’s eunuch who was in charge of the harem, suggested. Esther 4:14 - For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to the royal position for such a time as this. Esther 6:13 - Since Mordecai, before whom your downfall has begun, is of Jewish origin, you cannot stand against him - you will surely come to ruin! Esther 7:3 - If I have found favor with you, O king, and if it pleases your majesty, grant me my life - this is my petition, and the life of my people - this is my request. Brief Summary: The Book of Esther can be divided into three main sections. Chapters 1:1-2:18 – Esther replaces Vashti; 2:19-7:10 – Mordecai overcomes Haman; 8:1-10:3 – Israel survives Haman’s attempt to destroy them. The noble Esther risked her own death as she realized what was at stake. She willingly did what could have been a deadly maneuver and took on the second-in-command of her husband‘s kingdom, Haman. She proved a wise and most worthy opponent, all the while remaining humble and respectful of the position of her husband-king. Esther’s story is much like the story of Joseph in Genesis 41. Both stories involve foreign monarchs who control the destiny of the Jews. Both accounts show the heroism of Israelite individuals who provide the means for the salvation of their people and nation. The hand of God is evident, in that what appears to be a bad situation is indeed very much under the control of the Almighty God, who ultimately has the good of the people at heart. At the center of this story is the ongoing division between the Jews and the Amalekites, which was recorded to have begun in the Book of Exodus. Haman’s goal is the final effort recorded in the Old Testament period of the complete eradication of the Jews. His plans eventually end up with his own demise, and the elevation of his enemy Mordecai to his own position, as well as the salvation of the Jews. Feasting is a major theme of this book: there are seven recorded banquets (Esther 1:3, 9; 2:18; 5:4–5; 7:1–2; 8:17; and 9:17–22), and many of the events were planned, plotted, or exposed at these banquets. Although the name of God is never mentioned in this book, it is apparent that the Jews of Susa sought His intervention when they fasted for three days (Esther 4:16). In spite of the fact that the law allowing their destruction was written according to the laws of the Medes and Persians, rendering it unchangeable, the way was cleared for their prayers to be answered. Esther risked her life by going not once uninvited before the king but twice, (Esther 5:1–2; 8:3). She was not content with the destruction of Haman; she was intent on saving her people. The institution of the Feast of Purim is written and preserved for all to see and is still observed today. God’s chosen people, without any direct mention of His name, were granted a stay of execution through the wisdom and humility of Esther. Foreshadowings: In Esther, we are given a behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing struggle of Satan against the purposes of God and especially against His promised Messiah. The entrance of Christ into the human race was predicated upon the existence of the Jewish race. Just as Haman plotted against the Jews in order to destroy them, so has Satan set himself against Christ and God’s people. Just as Haman is defeated on the gallows he built for Mordecai, so does Christ use the very weapon that his enemy devised to destroy Him and His spiritual seed. For the cross, by which Satan planned to destroy the Messiah, was the very means through which Christ “having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross” (Colossians 2:14-15). Just as Haman was hanged on the gallows he built for Mordecai, so the devil was crushed by the cross he erected to destroy Christ. Practical Application: The Book of Esther shows the choice we make between seeing the hand of God in our circumstances in life and seeing things as merely coincidence. God is the sovereign Ruler of the universe and we can be assured that His plans will not be moved by the actions of mere evil men. Although His name is not mentioned in the book, His providential care for His people, both individuals and the nation, is evident throughout. For instance, we cannot fail to see the Almighty exerting influence over King Xerxes’ timely insomnia. Through the example of Mordecai and Esther, the silent love language our Father often uses to communicate directly to our spirits is shown in this book. Esther proved to have a godly and teachable spirit that also showed great strength and willing obedience. Esther’s humility was markedly different from the attitude of those around her, and this caused her to be elevated into the position of queen. She shows us that remaining respectful and humble, even in difficult if not humanly impossible circumstances, often sets us up to be the vessel of untold blessing for both ourselves and others. We would do well to emulate her godly attitudes in all areas of life, but especially in trials. Not once is there a complaint or bad attitude exposed in the writing. Many times we read she won the "favor" of those around her. Such favor is what ultimately saved her people. We can be granted such favor as we accept even unfair persecution and follow Esther’s example of maintaining a positive attitude, coupled with humility and the determination to lean on God. Who knows but that God put us in such a position, for just such a time as this? Related Resources: Why doesn’t the book of Esther mention God? Who was Xerxes in the Bible? Who was Esther in the Bible? What is the Feast of Purim? Who was Vashti in the Bible? What is the longest verse in the Bible? Esther 1:2 in those days as King Ahasuerus sat on his royal throne which was at the citadel in Susa, sat 2Sa 7:1 1Ki 1:46 Da 4:4 Shushan: Es 2:3 3:15 4:16 9:12-15 Ne 1:1 Da 8:2 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Susa (see map) is located in the southwestern region of modern Iran approximately 150 miles north of the head of the Persian Gulf and about 200 miles east of the city of Babylon. Susa was the city in which Nehemiah served as King Artaxeres' cupbearer in Neh 1:1. Susa (or Shushan) was described by Daniel as the site of one of his visions… And I looked in the vision, and it came about while I was looking, that I was in the citadel of Susa, which is in the province of Elam; and I looked in the vision, and I myself was beside the Ulai Canal. (Da 8:2) Comment: Note that Daniel was translated in his vision to Susa, the capital of Persia, even before the Persians (ram in Da 8:3-4 = Bear of Da 7:5 = the Silver of Da 2:32, Da 2:39) had conquered Babylon. In addition, Daniel's vision prophesied the eventual defeat of Persia by Greece (Da 8:5-8 prophesied of the Medo-Persian empires defeat by Greece, Da 8:21, led by Alexander the Great who himself quickly rose and fell resulting in 4 divisions of the Grecian empire, Da 8:8), as well as the still more distant break-up of the Grecian empire. It is not surprising that those who deny supernatural divine inspiration must try to assign the book of Daniel to a later period. Davis adds that…Susa itself was considered to be a garden paradise, a capital truly fit for a king. It abounded in fruits and flowers and was particularly famous for a specific kind of lily from which the city received its name. This fortified city was surrounded by streams and mountains that added to its beauty and attraction as a royal citadel during the cooler months of the year (Susa was intolerably hot during the summer). Furthermore, the term bîyrā(h) (often translated “capital”) is best understood to mean “acropolis,” which in the Persian culture indicated an elevated palace complex within a city that was designed both to suggest the majestic grandeur of the king and to provide for his protection. (Ibid) Mattoon writes that…Ahasuerus had great power and control. There was one thing, however, he could not control and that was himself. As we will see, he was proud, greedy, impulsive, prone to temper tantrums, easily flattered and swayed. Traditionally he was considered a weak king controlled by eunuchs. He was noted for his insane attack on European Greece… Persian kings were known to flaunt their wealth as Xerxes does here. Kings would even wear jewels in their beards. Jewels were a sign of rank among Persian men. Soldiers also wore great amounts of gold and jewels into battle. The Immortals were the famous bodyguard troops of the king. Their number was never allowed to go under 10,000. Substitutes were always ready when there was sickness or death. They were clad in gold decked raiment. Esther 1:3 in the third year of his reign he gave a banquet for all his princes and attendants, the army officers of Persia and Media, the nobles and the princes of his provinces being in his presence. A.M. 3542, B.C. 462 he gave a banquet: Es 2:18 Ge 40:20 1Ki 3:15 Da 5:1 Mk 6:21 of Persia: Es 1:14 Ezr 1:2 Isa 21:2 Jer 51:11 Da 5:28 8:20 the nobles: Da 3:2,3 6:1,6,7 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries IT'S PARTY TIME! The third year of his reign - From historical records we can determine that Ashasuerus reigned from 486-464BC, so the third year would be approximately 483BC. Compare this with the date given in Esther 2:7, "the seventh year of his reign." Banquet (04960) (mishteh) is derived from a word referring to drink and refers to a feast. Used 43x in the OT (Note repetition in Esther) - Gen 19:3; 21:8; 26:30; 29:22; 40:20; Jdg 14:10, 12, 17; 1 Sam 25:36; 2 Sam 3:20; 1Kgs 3:15; Ezra 3:7; Esther 1:3, 5, 9; 2:18; 5:4, 5, 6, 5:8, 12, 14; 6:14; 7:2, 7f; 8:17; 9:17, 18, 19, 22; Job 1:4f; Pr 15:15; Eccl 7:2; Isa 5:12; 25:6; Jer 16:8; 51:39; Dan 1:5, 8, 10, 16 Persia and Media (Esther 1:3, 14, 18, 19) - Note the reversal of the the order compared to Daniel (Da 5:28, 6:8, 12, 15, 8:20). During the first years of the Medio-Persian alliance, Media was the dominant force, but when Cyrus rose to power in 559 BC the seat of power shifted to the Persians. It is fascinating how even the word order of God's Word is meant to convey truth! Esther 1:4 And he displayed the riches of his royal glory and the splendor of his great majesty for many days, 180 days. And he displayed Isa 39:2 Eze 28:5 Da 4:30 the riches: Ps 76:1-4 145:5,12,13 Da 2:37-44 7:9-14 Mt 4:8 6:13 Ro 9:23 Eph 1:18 Col 1:27 Rev 4:11 splendor of his great majesty: 1Ch 29:11,12,25 Job 40:10 Ps 21:5 45:3 93:1 Da 4:36 5:18 2Pe 1:16,17 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries HOW TO HAVE A LONG PARTY! Riches of his royal glory… splendor of his great majesty - This is almost redundant but serves to emphasize his wealth and prestige. In short Ashasuerus was incredibly wealthy! This will make his acceptance later of a orphaned Jewish girl to be his queen that much more incredible! 180 days - Why so long? We cannot state with certainty but from history we know that Xerxes would invade Greece in 482BC (it is 483BC at the time of the banquet) and it has been postulated that this was a military planning session or calculated to convince any doubters that he was wealthy enough to carry out a campaign against Greece. Swindoll writes that… Archaeologists excavating at Susa have unearthed inscriptions in which this king refers to himself as, “The great king. The king of kings. The king of the lands occupied by many races. The king of this great earth.” Old Ahaseurus didn’t struggle with an inferiority complex! (SEE Esther: A Woman of Strength and Dignity - Page 24) Esther 1:5 When these days were completed, the king gave a banquet lasting seven days for all the people who were present at the citadel in Susa, from the greatest to the least, in the court of the garden of the king's palace. seven days: 2Ch 7:8,9 30:21-25 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries The Banquet of Ahasuerus PARTYING FOR SEVEN DAYS STRAIGHT! Banquet - This is the same Hebrew word used in Esther 1:3, but different Greek words are used by the Septuagint to translate these two uses. The Greek word in Esther 1:3 is dochē (a feast) and here in Esther 1:5 is potos which signifies a drinking party or a carousing, which fits perfectly with the description in Esther 1:8. All the people - This is almost inconceivable that the entire city would be at this carousing but Davis writes…Lest we worry that a banquet (i.e., drinking bout) that included everyone in the city would be beyond reason and beyond the managerial capacity of even a Persian king, we need only be reminded that “according to Ctesias, the court physician to Artaxerxes Mnemon (405–359 B.C.), no less than 15,000 feasted at the table of the Persian kings … and … Assurnasirpal had a ten-day celebration for 69,574 guests.” (Ibid) A Banquet in Susa When days of feasting reached their close, The king in Susa’s palace chose To spread a table rich and vast, For all his kingdom’s joys to last. From greatest lords to the least of men, The garden welcomed all within. With golden cups and finest wine, They reveled in the royal design. The courts adorned with splendor bright, Columns gleamed in the soft moonlight. White linen curtains, purple thread, Banners of glory overhead. Upon the marble floors so grand, The king’s own bounty filled the land. Each guest, no matter low or high, Shared in the feast beneath the sky. For seven days, the banquet swayed, As music played and servants laid Platters of food in endless streams, Fulfilling all their royal dreams. But beneath the feast, the story turned, The seeds of providence discerned. For in that palace, unseen, unknown, God’s quiet hand prepared His own. Oh, banquet halls may fade away, And feasts of kings will see decay. Yet higher truths are often found When human splendor knows no bound. In Susa’s courts, His plans unfold, A tale of courage, fierce and bold. For in the feasting, grace was sown, A greater story soon made known. Esther 1:6 There were hangings of fine white and violet linen held by cords of fine purple linen on silver rings and marble columns, and couches of gold and silver on a mosaic pavement of porphyry, marble, mother-of-pearl and precious stones. white: Ex 26:1,31,32,36,37 violet, Es 8:15 the beds: Es 7:8 Eze 23:41 Am 2:8 6:4 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Davis comments "There is no mistaking the fact that the author desires his readers to be impressed by the possessions of the king. Yet the author establishes Ahasuerus’ greatness only to show how it pales in comparison to the providence of God. (Ibid) Esther 1:7 Drinks were served in golden vessels of various kinds, and the royal wine was plentiful according to the king's bounty. vessels of gold: 1Ki 10:21 2Ch 9:20 Da 5:2-4 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Royal wine - Not just common wine but as the Septuagint translates it "wine which the king himself used to drink." Plentiful according to the king's bounty - A seemingly endless supply of the best wine! No Bad News - The unwillingness to listen to bad news has been blamed for everything from space shuttle disasters to corporate collapses to the spread of terrorism. Lengthy studies aren’t needed to determine why this happens. Bad news reveals problems; problems require solutions; solutions cost time, money, and energy we would rather spend celebrating past successes. This isn’t new to our century. In the 5th century BC, King Ahasuerus of Persia refused to allow mourners to enter his gates (Esther 4:1-2). One commentator suggests that he preferred to surround himself with people who were awed by his wealth and were eager to attend his lavish parties (1:4). His reluctance to be bothered by bad news nearly resulted in the annihilation of the Jewish people. I walked life's path with worry, Disturbed and quite unblest, Until I trusted Jesus; Now faith has giv'n me rest. —Bosch The Gospel is bad news to those who reject it and good news to those who receive it. Esther 1:8 The drinking was done according to the law, there was no compulsion, for so the king had given orders to each official of his household that he should do according to the desires of each person. Esther 1:8 and no restraint was placed on the drinking. The king had ordered every wine steward in his household to serve as much as each person wanted. (HCSB) Esther 1:8 And drinking was according to this edict: "There is no compulsion." For the king had given orders to all the staff of his palace to do as each man desired. (ESV) Esther 1:8 By the king's command each guest was allowed to drink in his own way, for the king instructed all the wine stewards to serve each man what he wished. (NIV) Esther 1:8 The royal edict did not, however, make drinking obligatory, the king having instructed the officials of his household to treat each guest according to the guest's own wishes. (NJB) Esther 1:8 By edict of the king, no limits were placed on the drinking, for the king had instructed all his palace officials to serve each man as much as he wanted. (NLT) there was no compulsion Jer 35:8 51:7 Hab 2:15,16 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Law - This is not the Hebrew word "torah" but the word dath/dat (01881) which occurs primarily in the book of Esther means decree, edict or law. Dath/dat describes either a permanent law that governed a nation (Esther 1:13, 15) or an edict sent out under the king’s authority (Esther 1:19, 2:8, 3:8, 3:14, 15). Apparently the law in place was that when the king drank, everyone else would follow suit, but this verse suggests this law was temporarily set aside. Esther 1:9 Queen Vashti also gave a banquet for the women in the palace which belonged to King Ahasuerus. the queen: Es 5:4,8 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries QUEEN VASHTI'S BANQUET Queen Vashti ("desired one") - Some (Herodotus 7:61 = "Their commander was Otanes, son of Amestris and father of Xerxes' wife.") identify her with Amestris (Greek name = "friend" or "companion"), daughter of Otanes, who is the only wife of Ahasuerus known to secular sources. The reason for a separate banquet is simply not known and it is best to avoid speculation. Davis gives us good advice in this regard writing that…Going beyond this immediate passage to discover and develop principles for life in relation to the truth may appear to be more profitable than sticking to the passage at hand. Yet we must be careful not to engage in what is called eisegesis, that is, reading truths gained from other sources into this passage where those truths do not exist. (Ibid) Queen Vashti’s Banquet In royal halls where power reigned, A queen’s own grace was unrestrained. Vashti, proud, with beauty rare, Prepared a feast beyond compare. For women gathered in her space, She offered warmth, a queen’s embrace. In Ahasuerus’ grand domain, Her banquet shone, a regal flame. No lesser light, no shadow cast, Her strength and dignity held fast. A crown she bore, but more than gold, Her spirit fierce, her stance was bold. Amid the feasting, wine, and cheer, The king’s command rang loud and clear: “Come forth, O Vashti, show thy face, Display thy beauty, thy regal grace.” But Vashti stood, her voice her own, A quiet strength in court well-known. “I will not bow to fleeting whim, My worth exceeds a passing hymn.” Her choice, though costly, carved her place As one who honored truth with grace. Though history turned, her tale remains, A lesson wrought from courage’s veins. For Vashti’s feast, though now long past, Reminds us still of truths that last: To stand with honor, firm and true, And hold one’s worth in all we do. James Smith - VASHTI, THE SELF-WILLED, REJECTED -- ESTHER 1 “Oh let Thy sacred will All Thy delight in me fulfil! Let not me think an action mine own way; But as Thy love shall sway, Resigning up the rudder to Thy skill.” —Herbert. The book of Esther belongs to the times of Ezra and Nehemiah, and was probably written by Mordecai (chap. 9:20). As has been often noted, the Name of God does not occur, and is never referred to in it. But although His Name is not found, His hand is everywhere visible. It may be fitly called, “The book of the providence of God.” In this brief history we have a striking confirmation and fulfilment of that principle taught in Romans 8:28: “All things work together for good … to them who are the called according to His purpose.” Each of the leading persons in the book presents a separate type of character, under the unconscious but over-ruling providence of God. Men and women are free to act as they may, and while responsible for their actions, there lies behind all the great purpose of God to manifest Himself. The events in the book are thrilling: Vashti, the queen, is deposed; Esther, the orphan, is crowned; Mordecai, the despised, is honoured; and Haman, the boaster, is hanged. We shall consider first the downfall of Queen Vashti. I. Her Name. Vashti means beauty. The king desired to show the princes her beauty, “for she was fair to look upon” (v. 11). Physical as well as moral beauty is always attractive, but mere outward comeliness has frequently proved a temptation and a snare. It is a dangerous gift when there is no corresponding comeliness of spirit. It is no uncommon thing to find the most beautiful spirit in a rough and uncomely body. II. Her Position. She was the queen of Ahasuerus, the greatest king on the earth. His name means “majestic prince.” What an honour to be the sharer of the glory and riches of such a king. Ahasuerus in some respects may represent Him who is the King of kings and Lord of lords. Especially in the greatness of his influence and in the generosity of his character in making a great feast for all his princes and for all his people (vv. 3–5). And like the great Gospel feast there was no compulsion. Every one was to choose for himself as to how much or how little he was to take (v. 8). A greater than Ahasuerus is here and it is our privilege to belong to Him. Queen Vashti was not more beautiful in the eyes of her king than those are in the eyes of the King of kings, in whom the “beauty of the Lord” has been put. Being made partakers of the Divine nature we become children and heirs together with Him. III. Her Opportunity: “The king commanded Vashti to come before him with the royal crown, to show the people and the princes her beauty” (vv. 10, 11). We are not so much concerned just now with the customs of this heathen court, with the seemliness or unseemliness of this command, but with the principles that lie underneath. Vashti held her position as queen by virtue of the king’s choice and favour, just as we, by the grace of God, have been called and exalted. This command to appear before the people with the crown royal—the gift of the king—to show them her beauty, and so please the king, was giving her an opportunity of doing a most acceptable service. It was her duty as well as her privilege to obey. Is there not a similar opportunity offered us, as the royal house of the King of Heaven? Should not that beauty which the Lord our God hath put upon us be shown forth for the honour of His great Name? Let your light—the light of your life—so shine before men. This is an opportunity that we will not always have. IV. Her Rebellion. “But the queen refused to come at the king’s commandment” (v. 12). The call was very urgent, for seven chamberlains had been deputed to carry it out, but she deliberately refused to obey. The reason probably was that as she, too, had “made a feast for the women in the royal house which belonged to the king” (v. 9), she did not wish to break up her present enjoyment for the sake of pleasing the king in such a small matter. How often the acts of our disobedience to God have their roots down in our self-made plans and our determination to carry them out. We have prepared a feast for ourselves and others, and things are going on beautifully when some definite call from the King comes, but we judge it unworthy of our attention meanwhile, and disobey, utterly unconscious of the terrible fruits that will certainly follow. One refusal to obey may cast us out of the fellowship of the King. V. Her Example. “This deed of the queen shall come abroad to all women, so that they shall despise their husbands in their eyes” (v. 17). “Acts speak louder than words.” Vashti, being queen, was compassed about with a great cloud of witnesses, so that her actions had far-reaching results. This is an aspect of the Christian life that cannot be too carefully considered. We, like her, walk in high places, and one false step may be to others a license to sin. “No man liveth unto himself” (Rom. 14:7). This is true, especially of the servant of God. As wives are to be subject to their own husbands, so must we be subject to Christ (Eph. 5:22–24). VI. Her Rejection. “Vashti came no more before king Ahasuerus” (vv. 19–21). He made Esther queen instead of Vashti” (chap. 2:17). Her disobedience led to entire separation from the fellowship of the king. Doubtless she little imagined that this simple refusal would result in such disastrous consequences. A thought, an act, and a crown lost. How long she lived to mourn over her folly we know not, but surely her days would be spent in shame and bitterness of soul. For this same reason (disobedience) many get out of fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ. There is sin in the heart, and the Lord will not hear. There has been failure through preferring our own will to the will of our Lord, and now there is no liberty of access. The failure will be all the more grievous if another has been called of Him to take our place and our crown. Hold that fast which thou hast as a servant, that no man take thy crown (Rev. 3:11). It is possible, through lack of self-subjection, even to preach to others, and yet, as a servant, become a castaway (1 Cor. 9:27). 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 Carkas, the seven eunuchs who served in the presence of King Ahasuerus, the heart: Ge 43:34 Judges 16:25 1Sa 25:36,37 2Sa 13:28 Pr 20:1 Ec 7:2-4 Ec 10:19 Eph 5:18,19 Harbona: Es 7:9 eunuchs, Da 1:3-5,18,19 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE KING'S DRUNK DEMAND Despite the King's great political power and incredible material wealth, we now discover that the King's palace is not a "heaven on earth." This section shows that you can have everything your heart desires and still not be happy! When the heart of the king was merry with wine - In a word the king was "smashed." He was under the control of wine, which prompted his request for Queen Vashti's appearance. As an aside Herodotus tells us that the Persians actually believed that intoxication took them closer to the spiritual world! They would have liked Paul's words in Ephesians which speak of effects of being filled with wine and filled with the Spirit... And do not get drunk (present imperative with a negative) with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled (present imperative) with the Spirit, (Ephesians 5:18+) THOUGHT - What is one of the best ways to discern if a man is drunk? Listen to them speak! The king gave a drunken request. Notice he did not give it on the first day, but on the seventh by which time he was probably maximally dissipated! There is an important principle in Paul's two commands (negative then positive), but you need to read the next word in the Greek text to see it. The first word in Ephesians 5:19+ is speaking (lalountes), indicating that the first member of the body which is under the control of the Holy Spirit is our tongue! How can you tell if a man is drunk or under control of "spirits"? Listen to him speak. How can you tell a man is under the control of the Holy Spirit? Listen to him speak! And notice that speaking is in the present tense which depicts one's continual speech pattern. In context of Ephesians 5:19+ you can see this speech is God honoring ("in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs"). Husbands, listen up! If you want to control your tongue around your wife (e.g., obey Paul's command in Eph 4:29+), give the control of your tongue to the control of the Holy Spirit. He is the only One Who has the supernatural power necessary to truly control our tongues. James makes this very clear writing "So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! 6 And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell. 7 For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. 8 But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. (James 3:5-8+) Could it be stated more clearly? The point is that the only way we can truly control our speech is by daily surrendering to the filling (control) of the Holy Spirit. There is simply no other way to control our tongue! This begs the question - Do you begin each day seeking the filling of the Spirit? If not you are vulnerable to falling into sin, not only with your tongue with with other members of your body as well! Related Resources: See discussion of the Need for the Holy Spirit to obey NT commands or How to Keep All 1642 Commandments in the New Testament! Make Disciples 2 - Begins study of Five Most Important Passages for Believers - and Ephesians 5:18 is at the top of the list! Make Disciples 3 - Chart comparing Filled with the Spirit and the Word Eunuchs - Men who had been castrated, thus made incapable of reproduction. They would have no desire for women. QUESTION - What is a eunuch in the Bible? What does the Bible say about eunuchs? ANSWER - The eunuchs of the Bible were usually castrated males or those incapable of reproduction due to a birth defect. A eunuch could also be someone who performed work typical of eunuchs, although he remained perfectly capable of having sex—i.e., “eunuch” in some cases was simply a title. The purpose of intentional castration was to induce impotence and remove sexuality. It was a common practice in ancient times for rulers to castrate some of their servants and/or advisers in order to subdue and pacify them. It was especially common to castrate men who tended the royal harem. Queen Esther’s eunuchs are mentioned in Esther 4:4. In Matthew 19:12, Jesus mentions eunuchs in the context of whether it is good to marry. He says, “There are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others—and there are those who choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.” Jesus identifies three types of “eunuchs” here: natural eunuchs (“born that way”), forced eunuchs (“made eunuchs by others”), and voluntary eunuchs (“those who choose”). Natural eunuchs include those who are born with a physical defect, but they also comprise those who are born with no real desire for marriage or sex. Forced eunuchs are those who have been castrated for whatever reason. Voluntary eunuchs are those who, in order to better serve the Lord in some capacity, choose to forego marriage. God calls some people to remain single (and therefore celibate). Paul speaks of those who serve the Lord in their unmarried state in 1 Corinthians 7:7—9. Some gay groups argue that Jesus was referring to homosexuals when He mentioned eunuchs who were “born that way.” However, the Bible never uses the words homosexual and eunuch interchangeably. Furthermore, eunuchs are never referred to in Scripture as being in sin, while homosexuality is universally condemned in both the Old and New Testaments. Esther 1:11 to bring Queen Vashti before the king with her royal crown in order to display her beauty to the people and the princes, for she was beautiful. Queen Vashti Pr 16:9 23:29-33 Mk 6:21,22 for she was beautiful., 1Sa 25:3 2Sa 14:25 Pr 31:30 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries BEAUTY ON DISPLAY: A ROYAL COMMAND Display her beauty - Xerxes was a proud man. Instead of protecting his wife Queen Vashti, he sought to proudly promote her. In 1 Corinthians 13:7+ Paul writes that "love bears all things." The verb for "bears" is stego which is derived from stege which describes a thatch or covering of a building. Stego then means to protect by covering or concealing. Love hides the faults of others or covers them. Husbands, how are you doing? Are you more like King Ashasuerus or like Paul's description of love? And remember the only way to truly carry out this genre of love (that bears all things) is by dependence on the enabling power of the Holy Spirit (being filled with the Spirit Eph 5:18, walking by the Spirit Gal 5:16). Esther 1:12 But Queen Vashti refused to come at the king's command delivered by the eunuchs. Then the king became very angry and his wrath burned within him. refused: Ge 3:16 Eph 5:22,24 1Pe 3:1 Then the king Pr 19:12 20:2 Da 2:12 3:13,19 Na 1:6 Rev 6:16,17 his wrath burned within him.: Ex 32:19,22 De 29:20 Ps 74:1 79:5 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Vashti Refuses the King! POSE OR BE DEPOSED! The king controlled 127 provinces but could not coerce his own queen. So in spite of his political prowess and material excesses, he could not control his own heart. He was not just "angry" but was very angry, which is further amplified by the figurative language of burning wrath! Can you picture his face? Beet red, nostrils flaring, breathing deeply. This was certainly not the happy ending one would expect for a ca chapter having three banquets! The world thinks weekend and thinks "p-a-r-t-y" crying let's "party hard!" One could hardly imagine out partying King Ahasuerus and look at the end result. And there was even more to come as the subsequent passages reveal! TSK - This refusal of Vashti's, to expose herself to the view of such a group of drunken Bacchanalians, was highly praiseworthy, and became the dignity of her rank and the modesty of her sex. Ferguson writes… The description of grandeur and power in these verses brings the careful reader to consider who is really in charge in this world? In this incident we are confronted with the shallow nature of man s power and pomp. One woman at a party refused a request and the whole Persian Empire was rocked to the core. Despite the boastings of man, he is such a fragile creature. A tiny virus we cannot even see can destroy the strongest and healthiest in a few hours. Only an involuntary heartbeat or brainwave separates us from eternity. The lust of Ahasuerus provoked by alcohol quickly leads to another unbridled passion of anger. Instead of humility at this demonstration of the limit of his power, his deflated pride leads to his famed fits of anger. Indeed, often a person under the influence of alcohol can go from drunken happiness to intense anger in just a few seconds. All the superficial fun and frivolity of the six-month feast is abruptly brought to a halt by the disobedience of his queen. This is a great humiliation as here is the king seeking to show off his power and he cannot even get his wife to obey him. The reality is that the material benefits and power of such an empire can ultimately never satisfy the heart of man. Only God can bring true contentment and satisfaction in the heart of a man. The ultimate irony of human vanity is that the absolute monarch of the great Persian Empire is not able to govern himself. We may put a man on the moon, split the atom, use the latest gadget technology, but after 6,000 years man still cannot master his passions. The question of whether Vashti was right or wrong to refuse her husband s request is hotly debated over. Some say she was right to protect her modesty and others that she should have submitted to her husband. At this point we can simply conclude that the Bible does not give us enough information to make a definitive judgment on the issue. We should not seek to deduce lessons from Scripture that it does not definitively adjudicate on. The key application from this incident is the providential workings of God amidst the wrong actions and behaviour of sinful men and women. (God in the Shadows - The Life of Esther ) The historian Herodotus had the following story of King Ahasuerus' propensity to uncontrollable anger… They then began to build bridges across the Hellespont from Abydos to that headland between Sestus and Madytus, the Phoenicians building one of ropes made from flax, and the Egyptians building a second one out of papyrus. From Abydos to the opposite shore it is a distance of almost two-thirds of a mile. But no sooner had the strait been bridged than a great storm came on and cut apart and scattered all their work. Xerxes flew into a rage at this, and he commanded that the Hellespont be struck with three hundred strokes of the whip and that a pair of foot-chains be thrown into the sea. It's even been said that he sent off a rank of branders along with the rest to the Hellespont! He also commanded the scourgers to speak outlandish and arrogant words: “You hateful water, our master lays his judgement on you thus, for you have unjustly punished him even though he's done you no wrong! Xerxes the king will pass over you, whether you wish it or not! It is fitting that no man offer you sacrifices, for you're a muddy and salty river!” In these ways he commanded that the sea be punished and also that the heads be severed from all those who directed the bridging of the Hellespont. QUESTION - Why did Queen Vashti refuse to appear before Xerxes? ANSWER - The book of Esther begins with a description of King Xerxes (or Ahasuerus) of Persia celebrating with the leading men of his kingdom. At the conclusion of seven days of feasting, the king called Queen Vashti to appear before him. We are told this was “in order to display her beauty to the people and nobles, for she was lovely to look at” (Esther 1:11). However, Queen Vashti refused to come before the king and his men; “then the king became furious and burned with anger” (verse 12). The text itself does not clearly address why Vashti refused to appear. A variety of theories have emerged. According to Esther 1:11, Queen Vashti was told to appear “wearing her royal crown,” and one rabbinical tradition interprets this as the king’s instruction to wear only her royal crown—in other words, she was told to appear in the nude. According to that tradition, Queen Vashti refused because she did not want to be put on display before a group of salacious, drunken men. This view is not found in the biblical text, nor can it be supported by history. However, it is likely that Vashti refused to appear because she would have been humiliated in some way. The king and his men had been feasting and drinking for seven days. It is almost assured that they did not have noble intentions in calling her to the party. While nothing more specific is noted, the context—especially the reference to her beauty—indicates that her attendance at the feast was sought to entertain the men in some way. Queen Vashti likely knew the potential consequences of refusing the king, but refuse she did. One of the king’s wise men, named Memucan, saw a dangerous precedent being set: “Queen Vashti has done wrong, not only against the king but also against all the nobles and the peoples of all the provinces of King Xerxes. For the queen’s conduct will become known to all the women, and so they will despise their husbands and say, ‘King Xerxes commanded Queen Vashti to be brought before him, but she would not come.’ This very day the Persian and Median women of the nobility who have heard about the queen’s conduct will respond to all the king’s nobles in the same way. There will be no end of disrespect and discord” (Esther 1:16–18). Such a bad example as Queen Vashti had set must be dealt with harshly, according to Memucan. Xerxes agreed with his adviser’s appraisal, and the result was that Vashti was never again to come before the king. Her royal position as queen was to be given to another “who is better than she” (Esther 1:19). Queen Vashti’s removal from the throne opened a vacancy in the Persian kingdom. Chapter 1 thus sets the stage for the introduction of Esther, an unlikely candidate for queen, since she was an orphaned Jewess raised by a cousin. However “unlikely” Esther may have been, God chose her to perform a great work in protecting the Jewish people from genocide. Still today, Jews around the world commemorate Esther and the deliverance she wrought with the Feast of Purim. Many scholars believe this is the same feast that was observed by Jesus in John 5:1. Esther 1:13 Then the king said to the wise men who understood the times--for it was the custom of the king so to speak before all who knew law and justice. the wise: Jer 10:7 Da 2:2,12,27 4:6,7 5:7 Mt 2:1 Understood: 1Ch 12:32 Mt 16:3 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Then - Then is a time sensitive" word (cf expressions of time) - often marks sequence or next in order of time and thus it should arrest our attention to observe what is occurring next (Why?, etc). Here, "then" marks a major paradigm shift in the way the kingdom is to be ordered or run in regard to husbands and wives! Understood the times - This phrase is also a found in a great description of the men of the tribe of Issachar, one of the sons of Jacob… 1 Chr 12:32 And of the sons of Issachar, men who understood the times, with knowledge of what Israel should do, their chiefs were two hundred; and all their kinsmen were at their command. In short, these wise men could have been experienced counselors like the sons of Issachar or they may also have been more "religiously" oriented (occult, eg, astrologers, diviners) as was common in the superstitious ancient orient (See Isa 44:25, Da 5:15). For (Note this is a term of explanation - ask what is being explained!) it was the custom of the king so to speak before all who knew law and justice - In other words the king was expected to consult others before he made a major decision. Esther 1:14 and were close to him: Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena and Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media who had access to the king's presence and sat in the first place in the kingdom-- the seven: Ezr 7:14 who had access to the king's presence: 2Ki 25:19 Mt 18:10 Rev 22:4 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Who had access to the king's presence - Literally in Hebrew " seers of the face of the king" NLT = "They met with the king regularly and held the highest positions in the empire." Esther 1:15 "According to law, what is to be done with Queen Vashti, because she did not obey the command of King Ahasuerus delivered by the eunuchs?" what is to be done - Esther 6:6 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE QUEEN'S DEFIANCE: A ROYAL DILEMMA NLT Esther 1:15 "What must be done to Queen Vashti?" the king demanded. "What penalty does the law provide for a queen who refuses to obey the king's orders, properly sent through his eunuchs?" Esther 1:16 In the presence of the king and the princes, Memucan said, "Queen Vashti has wronged not only the king but also all the princes and all the peoples who are in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus. has wronged: Ac 18:14 25:10 1Co 6:7,8 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries WHEN A QUEEN DEFIES A KINGDOM! Esther 1:17 "For the queen's conduct will become known to all the women causing them to look with contempt on their husbands by saying, 'King Ahasuerus commanded Queen Vashti to be brought in to his presence, but she did not come.' Look with contempt: 2Sa 6:16 Eph 5:33 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE RIPPLE EFFECT OF THE QUEEN'S DEFIANCE For - This term of explanation explains what? Re-read the preceding passage(s). The potential consequences of Vashti's defiance could breed contempt and threaten authority. Look (in their eyes KJV) (05869) ('ayin) - The eye is a good barometer of the inner thoughts of man. It speaks of character, attitude, inclination, opinion, passion, response. The Hebrew word ‘ayin was used figuratively with regard to the outer reflection of an inner attitude (see Ps 18:27; Pr 6:17; Isa 2:11). Contempt (059) (bazah) is a primary root which means to accord little worth, to despise, to disdain, to hold in contempt. To despise means to look down on one with contempt or aversion; regard as negligible, worthless, or distasteful and may suggest an emotional response ranging from strong dislike to loathing. Contempt describes the state of mind of one who despises and shows lack of respect or reverence for something or someone and can include a willful disobedience to or open disrespect. In Ps 51:7 David says God will not "despise" a "broken and contrite heart." (Ps 51:7) It is interesting that in the NT Paul explains that in marriage "the wife (is to) see to it that she respect (Greek = phobeo) her husband." (Eph 5:33-note) Esther 1:18 "This day the ladies of Persia and Media who have heard of the queen's conduct will speak in the same way to all the king's princes, and there will be plenty of contempt and anger. ladies: Judges 5:29 1Ki 11:3 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Behind the Throne - (Daniel 2:21) During my lifetime I have seen evil men rise to political and military power, make colossal blunders, and pass off the scene. Even good leaders leave a record that includes mistakes and weaknesses. The first chapter of Esther shows us the pride of King Ahasuerus, head of the mighty Persian Empire. He hosted an elaborate festival designed to display his riches and splendor. After 7 days of partying, the king gave orders to his servants to bring Vashti, his queen, before the revelers so they could see her great beauty. But Queen Vashti refused to come, humiliating the great king of Persia (vv.12-18). Ahasuerus was furious and sought counsel from the wise men of his kingdom. They advised him to remove Vashti as queen and "give her royal position to another who is better than she" (v.19). God used these unusual events to place a Jewish girl in a strategic position to preserve His people from destruction. We comprehend Him not, Yet earth and heaven tell, God sits as sovereign on the throne, And ruleth all things well. —Gerhardt The most powerful ruler is but a pawn in the hand of the King of kings. Esther 1:19 "If it pleases the king, let a royal edict be issued by him and let it be written in the laws of Persia and Media so that it cannot be repealed, that Vashti may no longer come into the presence of King Ahasuerus, and let the king give her royal position to another who is more worthy than she. it pleases the king: Es 1:21 3:9 8:5 so that it cannot be repealed Heb. it pass not away, Es 8:8 Da 6:8-15,17 to another who is more worthy than she. 1Sa 15:28 1Ki 3:28 Esther 1-2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries If it pleases the king - "If upon the king it is good"; " Deferential language was common in ancient Near Eastern court language addressing a despot; it occurs often in Esther." (NET) Edict (dabar) literally is a word, that which is said. The qualifier royal makes "edict" an excellent translation. In English an edict is a proclamation having the force of law. This word is found 8 times in Esther (Esther 1:19, 1:20, 3:14, 4:8, 8:13, 9:1, 9:13, 9:14). So that - Note this is a term of purpose/result Why here? The result of a law or edict issued by Persian king could not be repealed or overturned or reversed. We see a similar scene in Daniel during the time of the Medo-Persian kingdom… Daniel 6:8+ "Now, O king, establish the injunction and sign the document so that it may not be changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which may not be revoked." 9 Therefore King Darius signed the document, that is, the injunction. Cannot be repealed - This rule was typical of Persian decrees (see Esther 8:8, Da 6:8) and plays an important role in the chain of events in this drama. "Let it be inserted among the permanent laws, and be made a part of the constitution of the empire. The Persians seem to have affected such a degree of wisdom in the construction of their laws, that they never could be amended, and should never be repealed; and this formed the ground of the saying, "The laws of the Medes and Persians that change not."" (TSK) Henry