Meres is mentioned in the Book of Esther as one of the seven princes of Persia and Media who served in the court of King Ahasuerus, also known as Xerxes I. The narrative of Esther provides a glimpse into the Persian Empire's royal court during the 5th century BC, a time when the Jewish people were living in exile under Persian rule.

Biblical Reference:
Meres is specifically mentioned in Esther 1:14, which lists the seven princes who had special access to the king and held high positions in the kingdom. The Berean Standard Bible states: "and the closest to him were Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media who had access to the king and ranked highest in the kingdom."

Role and Significance:
The role of Meres, along with the other six princes, was significant in the administration of the vast Persian Empire. These princes were not only advisors but also wielded considerable influence and power. Their proximity to the king allowed them to partake in critical decisions affecting the empire's governance and policies.

In the context of the Book of Esther, the mention of these princes underscores the hierarchical structure and the political dynamics of the Persian court. The narrative highlights the importance of these officials in the decision-making process, as seen when King Ahasuerus consults them regarding Queen Vashti's refusal to appear before him (Esther 1:13-15).

Cultural and Historical Context:
The Persian Empire, under the rule of Ahasuerus, was one of the largest empires in ancient history, stretching from India to Ethiopia. The inclusion of Meres and the other princes in the biblical account reflects the historical reality of a centralized and bureaucratic administration that characterized Persian governance. The empire was known for its tolerance of different cultures and religions, which is evident in the account of Esther, where a Jewish woman becomes queen and plays a pivotal role in saving her people.

Theological Implications:
From a theological perspective, the mention of Meres and the other princes serves to set the stage for the unfolding of God's providential plan for the Jewish people. The Book of Esther, while not explicitly mentioning God, demonstrates His sovereignty and care for His covenant people, even in a foreign land. The political and social structures of the Persian Empire, including the roles of figures like Meres, are depicted as instruments through which divine purposes are accomplished.

Conclusion:
While Meres himself is not a central figure in the narrative, his inclusion in the list of Persian princes provides insight into the workings of the Persian court and the broader historical and theological themes present in the Book of Esther.Esther 1:14
And the next to him was Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media, which saw the king's face, and which sat the first in the kingdom;)
Nave's Topical Index

The Reaction against Egypt
... The others flow into the lowlands, forming meres, marshes, and ... flagrant exactions
made upon them by princes who called ... owing no allegiance to any one, and who ...
/.../chapter iithe reaction against egypt.htm

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