Bigthan, also referred to as Bigthana in some translations, is a figure mentioned in the Book of Esther, a historical narrative found in the Old Testament. He is identified as one of the eunuchs serving in the court of King Ahasuerus, the Persian monarch traditionally understood to be Xerxes I, who reigned from 486 to 465 BC. Bigthan's role in the biblical account is primarily associated with a conspiracy against the king, which ultimately plays a pivotal part in the narrative of Esther and the deliverance of the Jewish people.

Biblical Account

The primary reference to Bigthan is found in Esther 2:21-23. The Berean Standard Bible states: "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."

Role and Significance

Bigthan's conspiracy against King Ahasuerus is a critical event in the Book of Esther. The plot's discovery by Mordecai, a Jew residing in Susa, and his subsequent reporting of it to Queen Esther, his cousin, underscores the providential care and protection of God over His people. Mordecai's loyalty to the king, despite being part of a minority group in exile, highlights the biblical theme of faithfulness and integrity.

The thwarting of Bigthan's plot is instrumental in the unfolding of the narrative. Although Mordecai's act of loyalty initially goes unrewarded, it is later brought to the king's attention at a crucial moment (Esther 6:1-3). This leads to Mordecai's elevation and the eventual downfall of Haman, the antagonist who sought to annihilate the Jewish people. Thus, Bigthan's conspiracy, though seemingly a minor detail, sets the stage for the dramatic reversal of fortunes that characterizes the account of Esther.

Historical and Cultural Context

In the Persian court, eunuchs like Bigthan held significant positions of influence and responsibility. They were often entrusted with sensitive duties, such as guarding the king's private quarters, due to their perceived loyalty and inability to establish rival dynasties. The presence of eunuchs in royal courts is well-documented in ancient Near Eastern cultures, reflecting the historical accuracy of the biblical account.

The plot against Ahasuerus also reflects the political intrigue and instability that could exist within royal courts. Such conspiracies were not uncommon in ancient empires, where power struggles and personal vendettas often led to plots against reigning monarchs.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the account of Bigthan and the foiled assassination plot illustrates the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations and individuals. It demonstrates how God can use seemingly insignificant events and people to accomplish His purposes and protect His covenant people. The narrative encourages believers to trust in God's providence, even when His hand is not immediately visible.

Bigthan's account, though brief, serves as a reminder of the moral and spiritual lessons embedded in the historical narratives of the Bible. It underscores the importance of vigilance, the consequences of treachery, and the ultimate triumph of righteousness over evil.Esther 2:21-23
In those days, while Mordecai sat in the king's gate, two of the king's chamberlains, Bigthan and Teresh, of those which kept the door, were wroth, and sought to lay hands on the king Ahasuerus.
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Esther 6:2
And it was found written, that Mordecai had told of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king's chamberlains, the keepers of the door, who sought to lay hand on the king Ahasuerus.
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