Esther 1:22
For he sent letters into all the king's provinces, into every province according to the writing thereof, and to every people after their language, that every man should bear rule in his own house, and that it should be published according to the language of every people.
Esther 1:22 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Esther, we see the decree issued by King Ahasuerus to all the provinces of his kingdom. The king sends letters to each province in the language of its people, instructing that every man should have authority in his own household. This decree reflects the cultural and societal norms of the time, where the king's edict was to be obeyed by all, and each man was to play a leadership role within his family unit. The king's order to have the decree published in the language of every people ensures that the message is understood by all, regardless of their background or mother tongue. This verse highlights the King's power and authority over his realm, and the importance of order and structure within each household. It serves as a reminder of the king's influence over the lives of his subjects, as well as the need for clear communication and understanding in all matters.
Theological Overview
This verse from the Book of Esther reveals a significant aspect of ancient Persian culture and law. The command to honor the patriarchal structure of society and for every man to bear rule in his own house reflects the deeply ingrained societal norms of the time. The word "rule" in this context implies a sense of authority and leadership within the household. The theological interpretation of this verse may lead to discussions on the roles and responsibilities within a family unit, as well as the broader implications for society as a whole. Additionally, the detailed instructions for the dissemination of this decree speaks to the meticulous nature of Persian bureaucracy and the importance of ensuring that every person, regardless of language or location, adheres to the same laws. This verse can spark conversations about cultural relativism, gender roles, and the intersection of religion and politics in the ancient world.
Esther 1:22 in other translations
American Standard Version
for he sent letters into all the king's provinces, into every province according to the writing thereof, and to every people after their language, that every man should bear rule in his own house, and should speak according to the language of his people.
World English Bible
for he sent letters into all the king’s provinces, into every province according to its writing, and to every people in their language, that every man should rule his own house, speaking in the language of his own people.
Douay-Rheims
And he sent letters to all the provinces of his kingdom, as every nation could hear and read, in divers languages and characters, that the husbands should be rulers and masters in their houses: and that this should be published to every people.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For he sent letters into all the prouinces of the King, into euery prouince according to the writing thereof, and to euery people after their language, that euery man should beare rule in his owne house, and that he should publish it in the language of that same people.