Carkas כַּרְכַּס
Eunuch in King Ahasuerus' court
Who is Carkas in the Bible?
Carkas was one of seven eunuchs who served King Ahasuerus, also known as Xerxes, the Persian ruler, as described in Esther 1:10. Eunuchs held positions of trust and authority in royal courts, valued for their loyalty and administrative capabilities. During a lavish royal feast, Carkas was among the eunuchs commanded by the intoxicated king to bring Queen Vashti before him so he could display her beauty to his nobles and officials. When Vashti refused to appear, Carkas witnessed the king's subsequent anger and the decision that led to her removal as queen, a pivotal moment that eventually paved the way for Esther's elevation to the throne. Though Carkas is mentioned only briefly, his presence underscores the elaborate hierarchy and power structure of the Persian court and the events that set the book of Esther's narrative in motion.
Biography
Carkas was one of the seven eunuchs who served in the court of King Ahasuerus, also known as Xerxes, the Persian ruler (Est.1.10). Eunuchs were often employed in royal courts as trusted officials and servants due to their loyalty and inability to establish a rival dynasty. During a royal feast, when King Ahasuerus was in high spirits from drinking wine, he commanded the seven eunuchs, including Carkas, to bring Queen Vashti before him wearing her royal crown. The king wanted to display her beauty to the people and nobles, but Queen Vashti refused to come (Est.1.11-12). This refusal led to the king's anger and ultimately to Vashti's removal as queen, setting the stage for the rise of Esther. Carkas' mention as one of the eunuchs highlights the opulence and power dynamics within the Persian court during the time of Esther.
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentEsther 1 verse
- Esther 1:10
"On the seventh day, when the king’s heart was merry with wine, he ordered the seven eunuchs who served him—Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, Zethar, and Carkas—"
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Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | כַּרְכַּס |