Topical Encyclopedia Carcas is one of the seven eunuchs who served in the court of King Ahasuerus, as mentioned in the Book of Esther. The name Carcas appears in Esther 1:10, where he is listed among the officials who attended to the king during a significant event in the Persian Empire.Biblical Reference: Esther 1:10 : "On the seventh day, when King Ahasuerus was in high spirits from wine, he commanded the seven eunuchs who served him—Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcas—" Historical and Cultural Context: The Book of Esther is set during the reign of King Ahasuerus, commonly identified with Xerxes I, who ruled the Persian Empire from 486 to 465 BC. The narrative unfolds in the royal palace at Susa, one of the empire's capitals. Eunuchs like Carcas played crucial roles in the administration of the royal court, often entrusted with significant responsibilities due to their perceived loyalty and inability to establish competing dynasties. In the context of Esther 1, Carcas and his fellow eunuchs are tasked with carrying out the king's orders during a lavish banquet. This event marks the beginning of the narrative that leads to Queen Vashti's dismissal and the eventual rise of Esther as queen. The eunuchs' role underscores the opulence and hierarchical structure of the Persian court, where the king's commands were executed with precision and authority. Role and Significance: While Carcas himself is not a central figure in the narrative, his inclusion in the list of eunuchs highlights the importance of these officials in the Persian court. The eunuchs were responsible for various duties, including managing the king's harem, delivering messages, and ensuring the smooth operation of courtly functions. Their presence in the account of Esther illustrates the complex social and political dynamics at play within the empire. The mention of Carcas, along with the other eunuchs, serves to set the stage for the unfolding drama in the Book of Esther. It provides insight into the grandeur and intricacies of the Persian royal court, where decisions made by the king and his advisors could have far-reaching consequences for the Jewish people and the broader empire. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the Book of Esther, including the mention of figures like Carcas, demonstrates God's providence and sovereignty, even in a foreign and seemingly secular environment. Although God is not explicitly mentioned in the text, His hand is seen in the preservation and deliverance of the Jewish people through the actions of individuals within the Persian court. The narrative encourages believers to trust in God's unseen guidance and protection, regardless of their circumstances. Carcas, as part of the royal court, represents the broader context in which God's plans unfold, reminding readers of the divine orchestration behind historical events and the fulfillment of His purposes through both prominent and seemingly minor characters. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary CarcasSmith's Bible Dictionary Carcas(severe), the seventh of the seven "chamberlains," i.e. eunuchs, of King Ahasuerus. (Esther 1:10) (B.C. 483.). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CARCASkar'-kas (karkac): One of seven chamberlains, ordered to summon Queen Vashti before King Ahasuerus (Esther 1:10). The Targum allegorizes the first five of the names. Thesaurus Carcas (1 Occurrence)...CARCAS. kar'-kas (karkac): One of seven chamberlains, ordered to summon Queen Vashti before King Ahasuerus (Esther 1:10). ...Carcas (1 Occurrence). ... /c/carcas.htm - 7k Carcase (38 Occurrences) Unsexed (26 Occurrences) Mehu'man (1 Occurrence) Bizzetha (1 Occurrence) Carbuncles (2 Occurrences) Carkas (1 Occurrence) Chamberlains (17 Occurrences) Abag'tha (1 Occurrence) Ahasu-e'rus (30 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Carcas (1 Occurrence)Esther 1:10 Subtopics Related Terms |
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