Esther 5:2
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 5:2 · King James Version
Meaning
Esther, a Jewish orphan who had become the queen of Persia, bravely risked her life by entering the presence of King Xerxes without being summoned. In ancient Persia, appearing before the king without an invitation was punishable by death unless he extended his golden scepter as a sign of acceptance. As Esther stood in the court, nervous but determined, the king saw her and was so impressed by her beauty and courage that he graciously held out his golden scepter to her. This symbolic act showed that he welcomed her presence and granted her favor in his sight. Esther, relieved and grateful for the king's merciful gesture, approached him and gently touched the top of the scepter, signifying her acceptance of his offer of protection. This pivotal moment in the story of Esther highlights how her bravery, wisdom, and faith ultimately enabled her to save her people from destruction.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Esther, we see a powerful demonstration of divine favor and providence at work. The theological interpretation of this passage highlights how Esther, through her courage and wisdom, was able to find favor in the eyes of the king. The act of the king extending the golden sceptre to Esther symbolizes his acceptance and approval of her presence. This gesture not only signifies Esther's importance in the court but also speaks to the overarching theme of God's protection and guidance throughout the story. A deeper word study of the term "sceptre" reveals its significance as a symbol of authority and sovereignty, emphasizing the king's power to grant mercy and pardon. Overall, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of God's hand at work in the lives of His people, orchestrating events for their ultimate good and His divine purpose.
Esther 5:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it was so, when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favor 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.
World English Bible
When the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, she obtained favor in his sight; and the king held out to Esther the golden scepter that was in his hand. So Esther came near, and touched the top of the scepter.
Douay-Rheims
And when he saw Esther the queen standing, she pleased his eyes, and he held out toward her the golden sceptre, which he held in his hand and she drew near, and kissed the top of his sceptre.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when the King saw Ester the Queene standing in the court, shee founde fauour in his sight: and the King held out the golden scepter that was in his hand: so Ester drewe neere, and touched the toppe of the scepter.