Esther 2:9
And the maiden pleased him, and she obtained kindness of him; and he speedily gave her her things for purification, with such things as belonged to her, and seven maidens, which were meet to be given her, out of the king's house: and he preferred her and her maids unto the best place of the house of the women.
Esther 2:9 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse illustrates the favor that a young woman, Esther, found in the eyes of King Ahasuerus. Esther pleased the king and as a result, he quickly provided her with everything she needed for purification. This act of kindness from the king not only showed his favor towards Esther but also highlighted her worthiness to be considered as a potential queen. The provision of seven maidens to attend to her needs, along with being placed in the best part of the women's quarters, further demonstrated the king's special treatment of Esther. This verse sets the stage for Esther's eventual rise to becoming the queen of Persia, showcasing how divine favor and human kindness can play a role in one's destiny.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Esther reveals a significant moment in the story of Esther, where she finds favor in the eyes of the king. The theological interpretation of this passage highlights how Esther's humility and grace played a crucial role in gaining the king's favor. The word "kindness" in this verse signifies a divine favor or grace bestowed upon Esther by the king. The mention of the "things for purification" symbolizes Esther's readiness to meet the king and her desire to follow customs and traditions. The inclusion of "seven maidens" signifies completeness and perfection in fulfilling Esther's needs. The phrase "preferred her and her maids unto the best place of the house of the women" reflects Esther's elevation to a position of honor and privilege. This passage showcases Esther's courage and willingness to trust in God's providence, ultimately leading to her eventual role in saving the Jewish people. It serves as a reminder of how God's favor can work through even the most unexpected circumstances.
Esther 2:9 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the maiden pleased him, and she obtained kindness of him; and he speedily gave her her things for purification, with her portions, and the seven maidens who were meet to be given her out of the king's house: and he removed her and her maidens to the best place of the house of the women.
World English Bible
The maiden pleased him, and she obtained kindness from him. He quickly gave her cosmetics and her portions of food, and the seven choice maidens who were to be given her out of the king’s house. He moved her and her maidens to the best place in the women’s house.
Douay-Rheims
And she pleased him, and found favour in his sight. And he commanded the eunuch to hasten the women's ornaments, and to deliver to her her part, and seven of the most beautiful maidens of the king's house, and to adorn and deck out both her and her waiting maids.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the mayde pleased him, and she founde fauour in his sight: therefore he caused her things for purification to be giuen her speedily, and her state, and seuen comely maides to be giuer her out of the Kings house, and he gaue change to her and to her maydes of the best in the house of the women.