Esther 2:14
Japanese 1988 (Seisho Shinkyoudoyaku 聖書 新共同訳)
この聖句の意味
This verse describes the routine of the women in the king's harem. After spending the night with the king, a woman would return to a second house where the concubines were kept. She would only see the king again if he specifically requested her.
子どもにもわかる説明
Imagine a big house where the king has lots of ladies. Each night, one lady gets to spend time with the king. The next day, she goes back to her room. She only sees the king again if he really likes her and asks for her by name.
歴史的背景
The book of Esther was likely written in the 5th century BC, possibly by Mordecai or Esther herself, to record the events leading to the Jewish holiday of Purim. The setting is the Persian Empire under King Ahasuerus, where Persian customs dictated the king's harem management.
今日への適用
In modern terms, this verse can remind us about the importance of being valued for our individuality. Just as the king had to specifically request a woman to see her again, in relationships, we should strive to see and appreciate the unique qualities in each person we interact with.