Book of Esther - Chapter 1 - Verse 8

The verse "And the drinking was according to the law; none did compel: for so the king had appointed to all the officers of his house, that they should do according to every man's pleasure," from the Book of Esther, Chapter 1, verse 8, describes a royal banquet hosted by King Xerxes in the first chapter of the book. The verse highlights the fact that the drinking at this banquet was in accordance with the law, with no one being forced to drink against their will. This was a direct order from the king to all the officials in his palace, ensuring that every guest could drink to their own liking without any pressure or coercion.

This verse serves as a reminder of the king's authority and his desire to create an atmosphere of freedom and enjoyment at his feast. It also provides insight into the customs and traditions of the time, where drinking at banquets was a common practice. By specifying that no one was compelled to drink, the verse illustrates the king's respect for his guests' individual preferences and choices. Overall, this verse showcases the opulence and orderliness of the royal court, while also emphasizing the importance of following the king's directives in all matters, even down to the smallest details of a banquet.

This verse from the book of Esther provides insight into the cultural customs of the time, as well as the respect for authority within the Persian empire. The phrase "the drinking was according to the law; none did compel" emphasizes the importance of following the king's decrees and regulations, even in social settings such as banquets. The fact that no one was forced to drink against their will demonstrates a level of autonomy and freedom within the kingdom. It also reflects a sense of order and obedience to the king's commands, as seen in the phrase "for so the king had appointed to all the officers of his house." This verse highlights the meticulous attention to detail and adherence to protocol that was expected among the officials and attendees at the king's gatherings. By studying the cultural context and language of this verse, we gain a deeper understanding of the societal norms and power structures of ancient Persia, as well as the importance of obedience and adherence to established laws and customs.