Bigthan, also referred to as Bigthana, is a figure mentioned in the Book of Esther in the Old Testament. He is identified as one of the eunuchs serving in the court of King Ahasuerus, who is traditionally understood to be Xerxes I of Persia. The narrative of Bigthan is primarily found in Esther 2:21-23 and Esther 6:1-2.

Role in the Book of Esther:

Bigthan, along with another eunuch named Teresh, is noted for his involvement in a conspiracy against King Ahasuerus. The plot is discovered by Mordecai, a Jew who is the cousin and guardian of Esther, the queen. The Berean Standard Bible recounts this event as follows:

"In those days, while Mordecai was sitting at the king’s gate, Bigthan and Teresh, two of the king’s eunuchs who guarded the entrance, became angry and conspired to assassinate King Ahasuerus. When Mordecai learned of the plot, he reported it to Queen Esther, who informed the king in Mordecai’s name. After the report had been investigated and verified, both officials were hanged on the gallows. This incident was recorded in the book of the chronicles in the presence of the king." (Esther 2:21-23)

Significance:

The exposure of Bigthan and Teresh's conspiracy is a pivotal moment in the Book of Esther. Mordecai's loyalty and his subsequent report to Esther not only save the king's life but also set the stage for future events that lead to the deliverance of the Jewish people from a genocidal plot orchestrated by Haman, an antagonist in the narrative. The incident is later recounted in Esther 6:1-2, when the king, unable to sleep, orders the book of the chronicles to be read to him. It is during this reading that the king is reminded of Mordecai's service, which ultimately leads to Mordecai's honor and Haman's downfall.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The role of eunuchs in the Persian court was significant, as they often held positions of influence and responsibility. Bigthan and Teresh's positions as guards of the entrance suggest a level of trust and authority within the royal household. The plot against the king highlights the political intrigue and dangers present in the royal court, as well as the precarious nature of serving in such a high-stakes environment.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the account of Bigthan and Teresh underscores themes of divine providence and justice. Mordecai's discovery of the plot and his subsequent actions are seen as part of God's sovereign plan to protect His people. The narrative demonstrates how God can use seemingly ordinary events and individuals to accomplish His purposes, ensuring the safety and preservation of the Jewish nation during a time of great peril.

In summary, Bigthan's role in the Book of Esther, though brief, is integral to the unfolding of the story's larger themes of loyalty, justice, and divine intervention. His conspiracy and its exposure serve as a catalyst for the events that lead to the deliverance of the Jewish people, highlighting the intricate workings of God's providence in the lives of His people.Bigthan or Bigthana

(gift of God), a eunuch (chamberlain, Authorized Version) in the court of Ahasuerus, one of those "who kept the door," and conspired with Teresh against the king's life. (Esther 2:21) (B.C. 479.)

904. Bigthan -- a eunuch of Ahasuerus
Bigthan or Bigthana. 903, 904. Bigthan or Bigthana. 905 . a eunuch
of Ahasuerus. Transliteration: Bigthan or Bigthana Phonetic ...
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