“On the
seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded
Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, Zethar and Carkas, the seven eunuchs
who served in the presence of King Ahasuerus, to bring Queen Vashti before the
king with her royal crown in
order to display her beauty to the people and the princes, for she was
beautiful. But Queen Vashti refused to come at the king’s command” (vv.10-12).
The
first chapter of Esther shows us the pride of King Ahasuerus, head of the
mighty Persian Empire. He hosted an elaborate festival designed to display his
riches and splendor. After 7 days of feasting and drinking, the king gave
orders to his servants to bring Vashti, his queen, before his guests so
they could see her great beauty. But Queen Vashti refused to come, humiliating
the great king of Persia (vv.12-18).
The Queen was caught between a rock and a hard place. If she
obeyed, she would have allowed the king to degrade and disrespect her, for at
the very least she was to unveil her face, which was taboo. If she refused, she
risked losing her life. She refused. What courage! Vashti didn’t want to
compromise her character by being reduced to a piece of property.
Her desire for respect led to her banishment. We have no record
that Vashti feared the Lord. But her courage shows that she understood the
God-given dignity accorded to every human being. God created us in His image
and crowned us with glory and honor. Out of love and reverence for Him, let us treat
ourselves and others with honor, dignity, and respect.
The Truth
“You
husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as
you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal
partner in God’s gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will
not be hindered.” (1 Peter 3:7)
