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Book of Esther - Chapter 2 - Verse 17

2:17
And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favour in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti.

Meaning

Esther was a Jewish orphan who became Queen of Persia after winning the favor of King Xerxes. This verse highlights the special relationship between Esther and the King, showcasing the depth of his love for her and the favor she found in his eyes. Despite being surrounded by many other beautiful virgins in the palace, Esther stood out and gained a unique place in the King's heart. The act of crowning her with the royal crown symbolized her position of power and authority as the Queen of Persia. This verse is significant in demonstrating how Esther's courage, beauty, and grace enabled her to rise from humble beginnings to become a powerful and influential figure in ancient Persia, ultimately playing a crucial role in saving her people from destruction.

Theological Overview

Within this verse from the book of Esther, we see a clear picture of God's providential hand at work in the lives of His people. The king's love for Esther above all the other women is a demonstration of God's favor upon her, as she obtained grace and favor in his sight. This elevation to royalty was not merely by chance, but a carefully orchestrated plan by God to use Esther for the deliverance of His people. The word "grace" here highlights the unmerited favor and kindness bestowed upon Esther by the king, which mirrors God's undeserved blessings upon His people. Additionally, the word "favour" emphasizes the preferential treatment Esther received, signifying God's divine intervention in exalting her to a position of authority and influence. This verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to elevate individuals for His divine purposes, even in seemingly ordinary circumstances.

American Standard Version

And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained favor and kindness in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti.
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