Esther 1:21
And the saying pleased the king and the princes; and the king did according to the word of Memucan:
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern kings typically followed counsel from highest advisors, particularly when it aligned with their inclinations. Ahasuerus's approval transformed Memucan's suggestion into imperial decree with force of immutable law. Once approved and sealed, this decree couldn't be reversed (v. 19), making Vashti's banishment permanent and replacement mandatory. The counselors' approval ('pleased...the princes') shows unanimous support, suggesting they all shared concern about maintaining male authority and saw opportunity to make empire-wide statement. This human consensus, though motivated by pride and misogyny, served God's purposes.
Questions for Reflection
- How does unanimous human agreement on unjust action demonstrate that majority approval doesn't validate morality?
- What does God's use of this sinful decree teach about His sovereignty transcending human morality?
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Analysis & Commentary
Decree approved: 'And the saying pleased the king and the princes; and the king did according to the word of Memucan'. Ahasuerus and his counselors approved Memucan's proposal, sealing Vashti's fate and creating vacancy for Esther. The swift approval shows the counselors' reasoning aligned with the king's wounded pride and desire to reassert authority. This decision, made from anger and insecurity, became the providential mechanism positioning Esther to save the Jews. God's sovereignty works through even sinful human decisions—anger, pride, misogyny—to accomplish His redemptive purposes.