King James Version

What Does Esther 1:11 Mean?

“To bring Vashti the queen before the king with the crown royal, to shew the people and the princes her beauty: for she was fair to look on. fair: Heb. good of countenance”

Context

Also Vashti the queen made a feast for the women in the royal house which belonged to king Ahasuerus.

On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, and Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcas, the seven chamberlains that served in the presence of Ahasuerus the king, chamberlains: or, eunuchs

To bring Vashti the queen before the king with the crown royal, to shew the people and the princes her beauty: for she was fair to look on. fair: Heb. good of countenance

But the queen Vashti refused to come at the king's commandment by his chamberlains: therefore was the king very wroth, and his anger burned in him. by his: Heb. which was by the hand of his eunuchs

Then the king said to the wise men, which knew the times, (for so was the king's manner toward all that knew law and judgment:

Read full chapter →

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(11) **To bring Vashti.**—It is evident from the way in which the incident is introduced that had Ahasuerus been sober he would not have asked such a thing. Vashti naturally sends a refusal. **Crown royal.**—If this were like that worn by a king, it would be a tall cap decked with gems, and with a linen fillet of blue and white; this last was the *diadem.* (See Trench, *New Testament Synonyms,* § 23.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Esther. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Esther 1:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.