Etymology and Meaning:
The name "Abag'tha" is of Persian origin, though its exact meaning is not definitively known. It is one of the names listed among the seven eunuchs who served King Ahasuerus in the Book of Esther.

Biblical References:
Abag'tha is mentioned in the Book of Esther, specifically in Esther 1:10. The Berean Standard Bible states: "On the seventh day, when King Ahasuerus was in high spirits from wine, he commanded the seven eunuchs who served him—Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abag'tha, Zethar, and Carkas—"

Role and Context:
Abag'tha is identified as one of the seven eunuchs serving King Ahasuerus, also known as Xerxes I, during his reign over the Persian Empire. The eunuchs were high-ranking officials in the royal court, often entrusted with significant responsibilities, including the care of the king's harem and the execution of royal commands.

In the context of Esther 1:10, Abag'tha, along with the other eunuchs, is summoned by King Ahasuerus during a lavish banquet. The king, in a state of inebriation, instructs these eunuchs to bring Queen Vashti before him to display her beauty to the assembled guests. This event sets the stage for the subsequent narrative in the Book of Esther, where Queen Vashti's refusal to appear leads to her removal and the eventual rise of Esther as queen.

Historical and Cultural Background:
The Book of Esther is set in the Persian Empire during the reign of Ahasuerus, traditionally identified with Xerxes I (486–465 BC). The role of eunuchs in the Persian court was significant, as they were often seen as trustworthy servants who could not establish dynasties of their own, thus posing no threat to the king's lineage. Their presence in the narrative highlights the opulence and complexity of the Persian royal court.

Significance in the Book of Esther:
While Abag'tha himself does not play a major role beyond his mention in Esther 1:10, his inclusion in the list of eunuchs underscores the hierarchical and administrative structure of the Persian court. The actions of the eunuchs, including Abag'tha, serve as a catalyst for the events that follow, leading to the introduction of Esther and the unfolding of the story's central themes of providence, courage, and deliverance.

Related Topics:
· Eunuchs in the Ancient Near East
· The Persian Empire and its Administration
· The Role of Banquets in the Book of Esther
· The Story of Queen Vashti and its ImplicationsAbag'tha (1 Occurrence)

Esther 1:10
On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Bizzetha, Harbona, Bigtha, and Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcas, the seven chamberlains that ministered in the presence of Ahasuerus the king,
(See RSV)

Abag'tha (1 Occurrence)
Abag'tha. Abagtha, Abag'tha. Abana . Multi-Version Concordance
Abag'tha (1 Occurrence). Esther 1:10 On the seventh day, when the ...
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Abagtha (1 Occurrence)

/a/abagtha.htm - 7k

Abana (1 Occurrence)

/a/abana.htm - 7k

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