Carkas is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Esther, specifically in Esther 1:10. He is identified as one of the seven eunuchs who served in the court of King Ahasuerus, the Persian monarch traditionally identified with Xerxes I, who reigned from 486 to 465 BC. The role of Carkas, along with his fellow eunuchs, was to attend to the king and carry out his commands, particularly in matters of the royal household and court.

Biblical Reference:
In Esther 1:10 , the text states: "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 attended King Ahasuerus." This passage highlights the occasion of a grand banquet hosted by King Ahasuerus, during which he ordered these eunuchs to bring Queen Vashti before him to display her beauty to the assembled guests.

Historical and Cultural Context:
The mention of Carkas and the other eunuchs provides insight into the Persian court's structure and the significant roles eunuchs played in ancient Near Eastern royal administrations. Eunuchs were often entrusted with confidential and sensitive tasks due to their perceived loyalty and inability to establish competing dynasties. Their presence in the narrative underscores the opulence and complexity of the Persian court, as well as the absolute authority wielded by the king.

Theological Significance:
While Carkas himself does not play a central role in the unfolding events of the Book of Esther, his inclusion in the narrative serves to set the stage for the dramatic developments that follow, including Queen Vashti's refusal to appear before the king and the subsequent rise of Esther. The mention of Carkas and his fellow eunuchs illustrates the providential orchestration of events that lead to the deliverance of the Jewish people, a central theme in the Book of Esther.

Literary Role:
In the literary structure of Esther, the eunuchs, including Carkas, function as minor characters who facilitate the actions of the main protagonists. Their obedience to the king's commands contrasts with Vashti's defiance, which becomes a pivotal moment in the narrative. This contrast highlights themes of authority, obedience, and the consequences of defying royal decrees.

Conclusion:
Carkas, though a minor figure in the biblical text, is part of the intricate tapestry of characters and events that contribute to the overarching account of divine providence and deliverance in the Book of Esther. His role as a eunuch in the Persian court exemplifies the historical and cultural setting of the narrative, providing a backdrop for the unfolding of God's plan for His people.3752. Karkas -- a eunuch of Ahasuerus
... 3751, 3752. Karkas. 3753 . a eunuch of Ahasuerus. Transliteration: Karkas
Phonetic Spelling: (kar-kas') Short Definition: Carkas. ...
/hebrew/3752.htm - 5kCarkas (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Carkas (1 Occurrence). Esther 1:10 On the seventh
day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he ...
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Carmanians
Carmanians. Carkas, Carmanians. Carme . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ...
kar-ma'-ni-anz. See CARMONIANS. Carkas, Carmanians. Carme . Reference Bible.
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Carites (2 Occurrences)

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