Esther 7:2

and as they drank their wine on that second day, the king asked once more, "Queen Esther, what is your petition? It will be given to you. What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be fulfilled."

Study Bible

and as they drank their wine on that second day
This phrase indicates the continuation of a banquet, a common setting for royal decisions in the Persian Empire. Banquets were significant in Persian culture, often used for political and social purposes. The "second day" suggests a period of deliberation and anticipation, highlighting the gravity of Esther's request. This setting is reminiscent of other biblical feasts where significant events unfold, such as the Last Supper in the New Testament.

the king asked once more
The repetition of the king's question underscores his genuine interest and willingness to grant Esther's request. It reflects the king's favor towards Esther, which is crucial given the hierarchical and patriarchal nature of Persian society. This persistence also mirrors the biblical theme of persistence in prayer and petition, as seen in the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18:1-8.

“Queen Esther, what is your petition?
Addressing her as "Queen Esther" acknowledges her royal status and the respect she commands. Esther's position as queen is pivotal, as it provides her the platform to intercede for her people. This mirrors the intercessory role of Christ, who advocates on behalf of humanity before God, as seen in Hebrews 7:25.

It will be given to you.
The king's assurance reflects the absolute power he holds and his readiness to exercise it in Esther's favor. This promise of fulfillment echoes God's promises to His people throughout Scripture, where faith and obedience lead to divine provision and intervention, as seen in Philippians 4:19.

What is your request?
The king's inquiry invites Esther to speak boldly, highlighting the importance of timing and wisdom in making requests. This moment parallels the biblical principle of approaching God with confidence, as encouraged in Hebrews 4:16, where believers are urged to come boldly to the throne of grace.

Even up to half the kingdom, it will be fulfilled.”
This hyperbolic expression was a common royal idiom, indicating generosity and willingness to grant significant requests. It underscores the king's favor and the potential impact of Esther's petition. This phrase can be seen as a type of Christ's kingdom, where believers are co-heirs with Christ, as stated in Romans 8:17, sharing in the riches of His grace and glory.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who is hosting the banquet. He is known for his wealth and power, and his willingness to grant Esther's request shows his favor towards her.

2. Queen Esther
A Jewish queen of Persia, who is strategically using her position to save her people. Her courage and wisdom are central to the account.

3. The Banquet
This is the second banquet Esther has prepared for the king and Haman. It is a setting of both celebration and tension, as Esther plans to reveal Haman's plot.

4. Haman
Although not mentioned in this specific verse, he is present at the banquet. He is the antagonist who has plotted against the Jews, and his fate is about to be sealed.

5. The Persian Empire
The setting of the account, representing a vast and diverse kingdom where the events unfold.

Teaching Points

The Power of Influence
Esther's position as queen gives her a unique opportunity to influence the king. We should recognize and use our own positions and opportunities to advocate for justice and righteousness.

Courage in the Face of Danger
Esther's willingness to risk her life for her people is a powerful example of courage. We are called to stand up for what is right, even when it is risky.

God's Sovereignty and Timing
The timing of Esther's request is crucial. We should trust in God's perfect timing and be patient as we wait for His plans to unfold.

The Importance of Preparation
Esther's careful preparation of the banquets shows the importance of planning and wisdom in achieving our goals. We should seek God's guidance in our preparations.

The Role of Prayer and Fasting
Although not mentioned in this verse, Esther's earlier call for prayer and fasting (Esther 4:16) underscores the importance of seeking God's help in times of need.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Esther's approach to the king demonstrate wisdom and patience, and how can we apply these qualities in our own lives when facing difficult situations?

2. In what ways does Esther's account illustrate the concept of divine providence, and how can this encourage us in our personal challenges?

3. How can we use our positions and influence, like Esther, to advocate for justice and righteousness in our communities?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to wait for the right moment to act. How did you see God's timing at work in that situation?

5. How can the practice of prayer and fasting, as seen in Esther's preparation, be incorporated into our spiritual disciplines today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Esther 5:3
This earlier verse shows the king's initial willingness to grant Esther's request, setting the stage for the events of chapter 7.

Proverbs 21:1
This verse speaks to the sovereignty of God over the hearts of kings, which is evident in how God orchestrates events in Esther's favor.

Matthew 7:7-8
Jesus' teaching on asking and receiving can be related to Esther's boldness in making her request known to the king.