Topical Encyclopedia Marsena is one of the seven princes of Persia and Media mentioned in the Book of Esther, specifically in Esther 1:14. These princes were close advisors to King Ahasuerus (commonly identified with Xerxes I), and they held significant influence in the Persian Empire. The Berean Standard Bible refers to these individuals as "the seven nobles of Persia and Media who had access to the king and ranked highest in the kingdom."Biblical Context In the narrative of Esther, Marsena is listed among the seven princes who were consulted by King Ahasuerus during a critical moment in the early part of the book. The context of this consultation arises from Queen Vashti's refusal to appear before the king during a royal banquet, an act that was perceived as a challenge to the king's authority and potentially disruptive to the social order of the empire. Esther 1:14 states: "and were closest to him—Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan—the seven nobles of Persia and Media who had access to the king and ranked highest in the kingdom." Role and Significance Marsena, along with the other six princes, played a crucial role in advising King Ahasuerus on matters of state and governance. Their counsel was sought in determining the appropriate response to Queen Vashti's defiance. The advice given by these princes, particularly Memucan, who is noted for suggesting the deposition of Vashti, set the stage for the subsequent events in the Book of Esther, including the rise of Esther as queen and the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's plot. While Marsena's specific contributions to the king's decision-making process are not detailed individually, his inclusion in this esteemed group underscores his importance and influence within the Persian court. The collective wisdom and authority of these princes were instrumental in shaping the policies and actions of the king. Historical and Cultural Background The Persian Empire, during the time of Ahasuerus, was a vast and diverse realm, encompassing many different peoples and cultures. The role of the seven princes, including Marsena, was to provide counsel that would maintain the stability and prosperity of the empire. Their proximity to the king and their high rank suggest that they were men of considerable experience and insight, trusted by the king to offer sound advice on complex issues. In the broader biblical narrative, the account of Esther highlights themes of providence, courage, and the reversal of fortunes. The actions and decisions of the Persian court, including those involving Marsena and his fellow princes, serve as a backdrop to the unfolding of God's plan for His people, demonstrating His sovereignty even in foreign lands. Linguistic Notes The name "Marsena" is of uncertain origin and meaning. Like many names in the Book of Esther, it reflects the Persian context of the narrative. The presence of such names in the text underscores the historical setting of the events described, providing a glimpse into the multicultural environment of the Persian Empire. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the inclusion of Marsena and the other princes in the narrative of Esther serves to illustrate the workings of divine providence through human agents. Although the Book of Esther does not explicitly mention God, the unfolding events reveal His hidden hand guiding the destiny of His people. The decisions made by the Persian court, influenced by advisors like Marsena, ultimately contribute to the preservation and deliverance of the Jewish people, aligning with God's covenantal promises. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary MarsenaSmith's Bible Dictionary Marsena(worthy), one of the seven of Persia, "wise men which knew the times," which saw the king's face and sat first in the kingdom. (Esther 1:14) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MARSENAmar-se'-na, mar'-se-na (marcena'; derivation unknown but probably of Persian origin (Esther 1:14)): One of "the seven princes of Persia and Media, who saw the king's face, and sat first in the kingdom." Strong's Hebrew 4826. Marsena -- a Persian noble... 4825, 4826. Marsena. 4827 . a Persian noble. Transliteration: Marsena Phonetic Spelling: (mar-sen-aw') Short Definition: Marsena. ... /hebrew/4826.htm - 5k Thesaurus Marsena (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MARSENA. mar-se'-na, mar'-se ... the kingdom.". Multi-Version Concordance Marsena (1 Occurrence). Esther 1:14 ... /m/marsena.htm - 7k Marse'na (1 Occurrence) Tarshish (24 Occurrences) Memu'can (3 Occurrences) Meres (1 Occurrence) Mars' Memucan (3 Occurrences) Carshena (1 Occurrence) Carshe'na (1 Occurrence) Adma'tha (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Marsena (1 Occurrence)Esther 1:14 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |