King James Version

What Does Esther 1:13 Mean?

“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:”

Context

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:

And the next unto him was Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media, which saw the king's face, and which sat the first in the kingdom;)

What shall we do unto the queen Vashti according to law, because she hath not performed the commandment of the king Ahasuerus by the chamberlains? What: Heb. What to do

Read full chapter →

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(13) **Which knew the times.**—That is, who were skilled in precedents, and could advise accordingly. **For so. . . .**—Translate, *for so was the king’s business laid, before . . .*

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 1:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.