And it was so, when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favour in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the sceptre.
Esther's approach: 'And it was so, when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favour in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the sceptre'. Esther's unbidden approach to the king risked death (Esther 4:11), yet she found favor and the king extended his scepter, granting audience. This demonstrates God's providence governing even pagan king's responses to position Esther for intercession. Her touching the scepter accepted his grace and petition right. This scene foreshadows believers' bold approach to God's throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16), finding mercy when seeking help.
Historical Context
Persian court protocol made unsummoned approach to the king capital offense unless he extended the golden scepter showing mercy and granting audience. This protocol protected kings from assassination while demonstrating absolute power—even queens couldn't approach without risk. Esther's three-day fast (Esther 4:16) prepared spiritually, but outcome depended on king's response. Archaeological evidence from Persepolis shows elaborate court ceremonies and throne room settings where such protocols governed access. That Ahasuerus extended the scepter immediately shows both his affection for Esther and God's providential governance of his heart. Proverbs 21:1 teaches that 'the king's heart is in the hand of the LORD'—here demonstrated practically.
Questions for Reflection
How does the king's extension of the scepter illustrate God's sovereignty over human hearts and decisions?
What does Esther's risky approach teach about bold faith action when God's purposes require it?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Esther's approach: 'And it was so, when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favour in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the sceptre'. Esther's unbidden approach to the king risked death (Esther 4:11), yet she found favor and the king extended his scepter, granting audience. This demonstrates God's providence governing even pagan king's responses to position Esther for intercession. Her touching the scepter accepted his grace and petition right. This scene foreshadows believers' bold approach to God's throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16), finding mercy when seeking help.