Mehu'man
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Mehu'man is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Esther. He is one of the seven eunuchs who served King Ahasuerus, the Persian monarch who reigned from India to Cush, over 127 provinces. The role of Mehu'man and his fellow eunuchs was significant in the royal court, as they were entrusted with carrying out the king's commands and managing various aspects of palace life.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to Mehu'man is found in Esther 1:10-11 : "On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcas, the seven eunuchs who attended him, to bring Queen Vashti before him, wearing her royal crown, to display her beauty to the people and officials, for she was lovely to look at."

Role and Significance:

Mehu'man's role, along with the other eunuchs, highlights the structured hierarchy and the importance of eunuchs in the Persian court. Eunuchs were often chosen for their loyalty and inability to establish a dynasty, making them ideal servants for the king. Their duties included managing the king's harem, delivering messages, and executing royal orders.

In the context of the Book of Esther, Mehu'man's involvement in the command to bring Queen Vashti before the king underscores the pivotal moment that leads to Vashti's refusal and subsequent removal as queen. This event sets the stage for Esther's rise to queenship, which is central to the narrative of the book.

Cultural and Historical Context:

The mention of Mehu'man and the other eunuchs provides insight into the Persian Empire's courtly life and governance. The Persian Empire, known for its vastness and diversity, relied on a complex administrative system to maintain control over its territories. Eunuchs like Mehu'man were integral to this system, serving as trusted officials who could be relied upon to carry out the king's wishes without personal ambition.

The Book of Esther, while set in a historical context, also serves a theological purpose, illustrating God's providence and the deliverance of the Jewish people from potential annihilation. Mehu'man's brief mention is part of the larger narrative that demonstrates how God uses various individuals and circumstances to fulfill His divine plan.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the account of Mehu'man and the events in the Book of Esther highlight themes of obedience, authority, and divine intervention. While Mehu'man himself is a minor character, his role in the unfolding events serves as a reminder of the intricate ways in which God orchestrates history to achieve His purposes. The narrative encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty, even when His presence is not overtly mentioned, as is the case in the Book of Esther.
Concordance
Mehu'man (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)

Thesaurus
Mehu'man (1 Occurrence)
Mehu'man. Mehuman, Mehu'man. Mehunim . Multi-Version Concordance
Mehu'man (1 Occurrence). Esther 1:10 On the seventh day, when the ...
/m/mehu'man.htm - 6k

Mehuman (1 Occurrence)

/m/mehuman.htm - 7k

Mehunim (2 Occurrences)

/m/mehunim.htm - 7k

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