Topical Encyclopedia Carshena is one of the seven princes of Persia and Media mentioned in the Book of Esther, specifically in Esther 1:14. These princes were close advisors to King Ahasuerus (commonly identified with Xerxes I), and they held significant influence in the Persian Empire. The Berean Standard Bible states: "the seven nobles of Persia and Media who had access to the king and ranked highest in the kingdom—Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan."Historical Context The Book of Esther is set during the reign of King Ahasuerus, who ruled over a vast empire stretching from India to Cush (Esther 1:1). The narrative begins with a grand banquet hosted by the king in the third year of his reign, during which Queen Vashti is deposed for her refusal to appear before the king and his guests. This event sets the stage for Esther's rise to queenship and the subsequent deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's plot. Role and Significance Carshena, as one of the seven princes, was part of the king's inner circle, a group that had direct access to the king and was involved in the highest levels of decision-making. The mention of these princes highlights the structured hierarchy and governance within the Persian Empire, where such advisors played crucial roles in the administration and execution of royal decrees. The inclusion of Carshena and his fellow princes in the narrative underscores the importance of counsel and wisdom in leadership, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical text. The decision to remove Queen Vashti, for instance, was made after consulting these advisors, illustrating the weight their opinions carried in the royal court. Linguistic and Cultural Insights The name Carshena is of Persian origin, though its exact meaning is not definitively known. Some scholars suggest it may be related to Persian words or names, reflecting the multicultural and multiethnic composition of the Persian Empire. The presence of such names in the biblical text provides insight into the historical and cultural milieu of the time, where Jewish exiles lived under Persian rule and interacted with various peoples and customs. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the account of Esther, including the mention of Carshena and the other princes, demonstrates God's providence and sovereignty. Despite the absence of explicit references to God in the Book of Esther, His hand is seen in the preservation and protection of His people. The narrative encourages believers to trust in God's unseen guidance and to recognize His control over the affairs of nations and rulers. Carshena's role, though minor in the grand narrative, contributes to the unfolding of God's plan for the Jewish people. The decisions made by the Persian court, influenced by advisors like Carshena, ultimately lead to the elevation of Esther and the deliverance of her people, showcasing the intricate ways in which God orchestrates events for His purposes. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary CarshenaSmith's Bible Dictionary Carshena(illustrious), one of the seven princes of Persia and Media. (Esther 1:14) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia CARSHENAkar'-she-na, kar-she'-na (karshena'): The first named among the "seven princes of Persia and Media" under Ahasuerus (Esther 1:14). Strong's Hebrew 3771. Karshena -- a Pers. prince... a Pers. prince. Transliteration: Karshena Phonetic Spelling: (kar-shen-aw') Short Definition: Carshena. ... prince NASB Word Usage Carshena (1). Carshena. ... /hebrew/3771.htm - 5k Thesaurus Carshena (1 Occurrence)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia CARSHENA. kar'-she ... 14). See PRINCES, THE SEVEN. Multi-Version Concordance Carshena (1 Occurrence). Esther ... /c/carshena.htm - 7k Carshe'na (1 Occurrence) Tarshish (24 Occurrences) Memu'can (3 Occurrences) Marse'na (1 Occurrence) Meres (1 Occurrence) Marsena (1 Occurrence) Memucan (3 Occurrences) Carshemish (1 Occurrence) Adma'tha (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Carshena (1 Occurrence)Esther 1:14 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |