Zethar זֵתַר
One of the seven eunuchs of King Ahasuerus
Who is Zethar in the Bible?
Zethar was one of seven eunuchs who served King Ahasuerus of Persia in the royal court, as recorded in Esther 1:10. He is named alongside the other six eunuchs, Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, and Carcas, when the king commanded them to bring Queen Vashti before him during a royal banquet to display her beauty to his guests. Though Zethar himself played a minor role, this command set in motion the events that led to Vashti's refusal and removal as queen, ultimately paving the way for Esther to become the new queen of Persia. As a trusted member of the royal household, Zethar's mention reflects the importance of eunuchs as reliable servants in ancient Persian royal courts.
Biography
Zethar was one of the seven eunuchs who served in the court of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia, as recorded in the Book of Esther. He is mentioned by name along with the other eunuchs: Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, and Carcas. In the story, King Ahasuerus commanded these seven eunuchs to bring Queen Vashti before him during a royal feast, so that he could display her beauty to the guests. This incident led to Vashti's refusal and subsequent removal as queen, setting the stage for Esther to become the new queen. As a eunuch, Zethar would have been a trusted servant in the royal court, with responsibilities related to the king's personal affairs and harem.
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 | זֵתַר |
Zethar
us (Zeus, the Revised Version margin; the Revised Version (British and American) and the King James Version Jupiter): The supreme god of Hellenic theology, "king of gods and of men." In 168 BC Antiochus Epiphanes, "who