This verse (Esther 2:15) is packed with information about Esther's character and strategy as she prepared to meet King Ahasuerus. Let's break it down:
"Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her for his daughter, came to go in to the king...": This sets the scene. It's Esther's designated time to meet the King as part of the competition to become the new queen. The verse highlights her lineage (daughter of Abihail, niece of Mordecai) and emphasizes that Mordecai raised her as his own daughter, reinforcing their close bond and his protective role.
"...she required nothing but what Hegai the king’s eunuch, the keeper of the women, advised.": This is a crucial point. Unlike the other women vying for the king's attention, Esther didn't try to embellish herself or request extravagant items. Instead, she humbly and wisely followed the advice of Hegai, the experienced eunuch in charge of the harem. This demonstrates:
Humility and Trust: Esther isn't arrogant or convinced of her own superior judgment. She recognizes Hegai's expertise and trusts his guidance.
Wisdom and Prudence: She understands that Hegai knows the king's preferences and what is likely to appeal to him. She is strategic in seeking and following his advice.
Lack of Materialism: Her focus wasn't on outward adornment or superficial enhancements. This contrasts her with other women who might have been overly concerned with appearances.
"Esther obtained favor in the sight of all those who looked at her.": This highlights the result of Esther's approach. She didn't just find favor with the King; she charmed everyone who saw her. This suggests that her inner qualities (humility, grace, intelligence) shone through, enhancing her natural beauty. Her approach, following Hegai's advice, likely contributed to her presenting herself in a way that was pleasing and captivating.
In Summary:
The verse reveals Esther's character: humble, wise, trusting, and not overly concerned with material possessions. She recognized the value of advice and followed it, leading to her gaining favor with everyone. It sets the stage for her ultimate success in winning the king's favor and becoming queen. The verse is a testament to the power of inner qualities and the wisdom of seeking counsel.
This verse (Esther 2:15) is packed with information about Esther's character and strategy as she prepared to meet King Ahasuerus. Let's break it down:
"Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her for his daughter, came to go in to the king...": This sets the scene. It's Esther's designated time to meet the King as part of the competition to become the new queen. The verse highlights her lineage (daughter of Abihail, niece of Mordecai) and emphasizes that Mordecai raised her as his own daughter, reinforcing their close bond and his protective role.
"...she required nothing but what Hegai the king’s eunuch, the keeper of the women, advised.": This is a crucial point. Unlike the other women vying for the king's attention, Esther didn't try to embellish herself or request extravagant items. Instead, she humbly and wisely followed the advice of Hegai, the experienced eunuch in charge of the harem. This demonstrates:
Humility and Trust: Esther isn't arrogant or convinced of her own superior judgment. She recognizes Hegai's expertise and trusts his guidance.
Wisdom and Prudence: She understands that Hegai knows the king's preferences and what is likely to appeal to him. She is strategic in seeking and following his advice.
Lack of Materialism: Her focus wasn't on outward adornment or superficial enhancements. This contrasts her with other women who might have been overly concerned with appearances.
"Esther obtained favor in the sight of all those who looked at her.": This highlights the result of Esther's approach. She didn't just find favor with the King; she charmed everyone who saw her. This suggests that her inner qualities (humility, grace, intelligence) shone through, enhancing her natural beauty. Her approach, following Hegai's advice, likely contributed to her presenting herself in a way that was pleasing and captivating.
In Summary:
The verse reveals Esther's character: humble, wise, trusting, and not overly concerned with material possessions. She recognized the value of advice and followed it, leading to her gaining favor with everyone. It sets the stage for her ultimate success in winning the king's favor and becoming queen. The verse is a testament to the power of inner qualities and the wisdom of seeking counsel.