Jump to: Hitchcock's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Bigthan, also referred to as Bigthana in some translations, is a minor yet significant figure in the biblical narrative found in the Book of Esther. His role, though brief, plays a crucial part in the unfolding of events that lead to the deliverance of the Jewish people during the Persian Empire. Biblical Account: Bigthan is mentioned in the Book of Esther, specifically in Esther 2:21-23. He is identified as one of the king's eunuchs who served in the court of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I). The Berean Standard Bible describes the incident involving Bigthan as follows: "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 men were hanged on the gallows. This event was recorded in the Book of the Chronicles in the presence of the king." (Esther 2:21-23) Role and Significance: Bigthan's role, though limited to a few verses, is pivotal in the narrative of Esther. His conspiracy against King Ahasuerus, along with Teresh, sets the stage for Mordecai's rise in favor and the eventual salvation of the Jewish people. The exposure of the plot by Mordecai, and its subsequent recording in the royal chronicles, becomes a crucial turning point later in the account when King Ahasuerus seeks to honor Mordecai for his loyalty (Esther 6:1-3). Historical and Cultural Context: The presence of eunuchs like Bigthan in the Persian court was a common practice. Eunuchs often held positions of influence and responsibility, serving as guards, advisors, or attendants to the king. Their loyalty was highly valued, but as seen in the case of Bigthan and Teresh, discontent could lead to treachery. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the account of Bigthan underscores the providence of God in the affairs of His people. Despite the seemingly random and dangerous plots against the king, God orchestrates events to protect His chosen people. Mordecai's discovery of the plot and his subsequent actions demonstrate the importance of vigilance and faithfulness in the service of God and country. Conclusion: While Bigthan's conspiracy ultimately fails, his actions inadvertently contribute to the larger narrative of deliverance for the Jewish people. His account serves as a reminder of the hidden workings of divine providence and the importance of integrity and loyalty in the face of adversity. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary BigthanATS Bible Dictionary BigthanA eunuch at the court of Ahasuerus, whose conspiracy against that king was frustrated by the vigilance of Mordecai, Esther 2:21. Easton's Bible Dictionary One of the eunuchs who "kept the door" in the court of Ahasuerus. With Teresh he conspired against the king's life. Mordecai detected the conspiracy, and the culprits were hanged (Esther 2:21-23; 6:1-3). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BIGTHAN; BIGTHANAbig'-than big-tha'-na (bighethan, bighethana'; Septuagint omits name): One of the two chamberlains or eunuchs of Xerxes on ("Ahasuerus") who conspired against the king's life, the conspiracy being detected by Mordecai and the culprits hanged (Esther 2:21). Possibly these men had been partially superseded by the degradation of Vashti and were thus prompted to take revenge Xerxes. Strong's Hebrew 904. Bigthan -- a eunuch of AhasuerusBigthan or Bigthana. 903, 904. Bigthan or Bigthana. 905 . a eunuch of Ahasuerus. Transliteration: Bigthan or Bigthana Phonetic ... /hebrew/904.htm - 6k Library Synagogues in the City; and Schools. Concerning Esther and Mordecai and Haman; and How in the Reign of ... Thesaurus Bigthan (1 Occurrence)... 3). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. BIGTHAN; BIGTHANA. big'-than ... Xerxes. Multi-Version Concordance Bigthan (1 Occurrence). Esther 2 ... /b/bigthan.htm - 7k Bigthana (2 Occurrences) Xerxes (24 Occurrences) Tharra Teresh (2 Occurrences) Eunuchs (33 Occurrences) Mor'decai (51 Occurrences) Bigtha (1 Occurrence) Threshold (28 Occurrences) Chamberlains (17 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Bigthan (1 Occurrence)Esther 2:21 Subtopics Bigthan: A Conspiring Persian Courtier Related Terms |