Old Testament

Esther 2:21

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In the story of Esther, we find Mordecai sitting at the king's gate, a place of authority and decision-making.

Author: Author unknown
Written: Around 460-330 BC
Genre: Historical narrative
Original Audience: Jews of the Persian diaspora

CBTClear Bible Translation

In those days, while Mordecai sat in the king's gate, two of the king's eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, of those who kept the door, were angry and sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus.

KJVKing James Version

In those days, while Mordecai sat in the king’s gate, two of the king’s chamberlains, Bigthan and Teresh, of those which kept the door, were wroth, and sought to lay hand on the king Ahasuerus.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In the story of Esther, we find Mordecai sitting at the king's gate, a place of authority and decision-making. While there, he overhears a plot against King Ahasuerus by two of the king's eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh. These men are filled with anger and are planning to harm the king. Mordecai's position allows him to hear this dangerous secret, which could change the course of events in the kingdom. This moment highlights the importance of being alert and aware of our surroundings. It also shows how seemingly small actions, like sitting at a gate, can lead to significant outcomes. Mordecai's discovery of the plot sets the stage for future events that will impact not just him, but the entire Jewish people. His courage to report the conspiracy demonstrates the value of standing up for what is right, even when it involves risk. This story reminds us that we can make a difference, no matter our position or situation in life, by being vigilant and taking action when necessary.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Esther 2:21 to your life

We can learn from Mordecai's example to stay alert in our daily lives. Pay attention to the situations around you, as you may be in a position to help others. Small actions can lead to significant changes, so don't underestimate your role in the world. Speak up when you see something wrong, just like Mordecai did. Your voice matters and can create a ripple effect of positive change in your community.

Curated for this public verse page. Esther Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Esther 2:21 mean?

Esther 2:21 describes a moment when Mordecai overhears a plot by two eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, to assassinate King Ahasuerus. This event is significant as it sets the stage for Mordecai's later role in saving the king and the Jewish people.

Who are Bigthan and Teresh in Esther 2:21?

Bigthan and Teresh are two of King Ahasuerus's eunuchs who are angry and plot to harm the king. Their actions highlight the dangers present in the royal court and lead to a pivotal moment in the story.

What lesson can we learn from Esther 2:21?

Esther 2:21 teaches us the importance of vigilance and being aware of our surroundings. It shows that even small actions, like listening carefully, can lead to significant outcomes and that standing up for what is right can make a difference.

What does the plot against King Ahasuerus reveal in Esther 2:21?

The plot against King Ahasuerus reveals the underlying tensions and dangers within the royal court. It emphasizes the need for loyalty and the potential for betrayal, setting the stage for the unfolding drama in the Book of Esther.

Book Summary

The Book of Esther

Esther 1: King Ahasuerus and Queen Vashti

In the third year of his reign, King Ahasuerus of Persia, who rules from India to Ethiopia over 127 provinces, holds a grand feast in the palace at Shushan. For 180 days, he displays the vast wealth of his kingdom and the splendor of his majesty to all his nobles and officials. Afterward, he hosts a seven-day feast for all the people in Shushan, from the greatest to the least, in the enclosed garden of the king's palace. The setting is lavish, with white, green, and blue hangings, gold and silver couches, and a mosaic pavement. Royal wine is served in abundance in golden vessels.

On the seventh day, when the king is merry with wine, he commands his seven chamberlains to bring Queen Vashti before him, wearing her royal crown, in order to display her beauty to the people and the nobles. However, Queen Vashti refuses to come at the king's command. The king becomes furious, and his anger burns within him. He consults his wise men, who know the law and judgment. Memucan, one of the seven princes of Persia and Media, advises the king that Vashti has wronged not only the king but also all the nobles and people in the provinces. He warns that her disobedience will become known to all women, causing them to despise their husbands. Memucan proposes that the king issue a royal decree, to be written into the laws of the Persians and the Medes so that it cannot be altered, that Vashti is never again to enter the presence of King Ahasuerus. Her royal position is to be given to someone else who is better than she. The king and his princes are pleased with this advice, and the king sends letters to all parts of his kingdom, declaring that every man should be ruler over his own household. Esther 2: Esther Becomes Queen After King Ahasuerus's anger has subsided, his attendants suggest that a search be made for beautiful young virgins for the king. They propose that officers be appointed in all the provinces to bring all the beautiful young virgins to the harem in the citadel of Shushan, under the care of Hegai, the king's eunuch in charge of the women. The young woman who pleases the king the most will become queen instead of Vashti. The king approves of this plan and puts it into effect. In the citadel of Shushan, there is a Jew from the tribe of Benjamin named Mordecai son of Jair, who had been carried into exile from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. Mordecai has a cousin named Hadassah, whom he had brought up because she had no father or mother. She is also known as Esther, and she is lovely in form and features. When the king's order is proclaimed, Esther is taken to the king's palace and entrusted to Hegai. She wins his favor and he provides her with beauty treatments, special food, and seven female attendants from the king's palace. At Mordecai's instruction, Esther does not reveal her nationality and family background. Mordecai walks back and forth near the courtyard of the harem every day to find out how she is and what is happening to her.

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