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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Esther 2:12 In the twelve months before her turn to go to King Xerxes, the harem regulation required each young woman to receive beauty treatments with oil of myrrh for six months, and then with perfumes and cosmetics for another six months.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/esther/2-12.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/12/17_Est_02_12.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Esther 2:12 - Esther Finds Favor" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="In the twelve months before her turn to go to King 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cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad12.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/esther/2-11.htm" title="Esther 2:11">◄</a> Esther 2:12 <a href="/esther/2-13.htm" title="Esther 2:13">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/esther/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/esther/2.htm">New International Version</a> Before a young woman&#8217s turn came to go in to King Xerxes, she had to complete twelve months of beauty treatments prescribed for the women, six months with oil of myrrh and six with perfumes and cosmetics. <a href="/nlt/esther/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> Before each young woman was taken to the king’s bed, she was given the prescribed twelve months of beauty treatments—six months with oil of myrrh, followed by six months with special perfumes and ointments. <a href="/esv/esther/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> Now when the turn came for each young woman to go in to King Ahasuerus, after being twelve months under the regulations for the women, since this was the regular period of their beautifying, six months with oil of myrrh and six months with spices and ointments for women— <a href="/bsb/esther/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> In the twelve months before her turn to go to King Xerxes, the harem regulation required each young woman to receive beauty treatments with oil of myrrh for six months, and then with perfumes and cosmetics for another six months. <a href="/kjv/esther/2.htm">King James Bible</a> Now when every maid's turn was come to go in to king Ahasuerus, after that she had been twelve months, according to the manner of the women, (for so were the days of their purifications accomplished, to wit, six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with sweet odours, and with other things for the purifying of the women;) <a href="/nkjv/esther/2.htm">New King James Version</a> Each young woman’s turn came to go in to King Ahasuerus after she had completed twelve months’ preparation, according to the regulations for the women, for thus were the days of their preparation apportioned: six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with perfumes and preparations for beautifying women. <a href="/nasb_/esther/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Now when the turn came for each young woman to go in to King Ahasuerus, after the end of her twelve months under the regulations for the women—for the days of their beauty treatment were completed as follows: six months with oil of myrrh and six months with balsam oil and the cosmetics for women— <a href="/nasb/esther/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> Now when the turn of each young lady came to go in to King Ahasuerus, after the end of her twelve months under the regulations for the women— for the days of their beautification were completed as follows: six months with oil of myrrh and six months with spices and the cosmetics for women— <a href="/nasb77/esther/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Now when the turn of each young lady came to go in to King Ahasuerus, after the end of her twelve months under the regulations for the women—for the days of their beautification were completed as follows: six months with oil of myrrh and six months with spices and the cosmetics for women— <a href="/lsb/esther/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Now when it reached the turn of each young lady to go in to King Ahasuerus, after the end of her twelve months under the regulations for the women—for the days of their cosmetic treatment were fulfilled as follows: six months with oil of myrrh and six months with spices and the cosmetics for women— <a href="/amp/esther/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Now when it was each young woman’s turn to go before King Ahasuerus, after the end of her twelve months under the regulations for the women—for the days of their beautification were completed as follows: six months with oil of myrrh and six months with [sweet] spices and perfumes and the beauty preparations for women— <a href="/csb/esther/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> During the year before each young woman’s turn to go to King Ahasuerus, the harem regulation required her to receive beauty treatments with oil of myrrh for six months and then with perfumes and cosmetics for another six months. <a href="/hcsb/esther/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> During the year before each young woman&#8217s turn to go to King Ahasuerus, the harem regulation required her to receive beauty treatments with oil of myrrh for six months and then with perfumes and cosmetics for another six months. <a href="/asv/esther/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> Now when the turn of every maiden was come to go in to king Ahasuerus, after that it had been done to her according to the law for the women twelve months (for so were the days of their purifications accomplished, to wit, six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with sweet odors and with the things for the purifying of the women), <a href="/cev/esther/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> The young women were given beauty treatments for one whole year. The first six months their skin was rubbed with olive oil and myrrh, and the last six months it was treated with perfumes and cosmetics. Then each of them spent the night alone with King Xerxes. <a href="/erv/esther/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> Now when the turn of every maiden was come to go in to king Ahasuerus, after that it had been done to her according to the law for the women, twelve months, (for so were the days of their purifications accomplished, to wit, six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with sweet odours, and with the things for the purifying of the women,) <a href="/gwt/esther/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Each young woman had her turn to go to King Xerxes after she had completed the required 12-month treatment for women. The time of beauty treatment was spent as follows: six months using oil of myrrh and six months using perfumes and other treatments for women. <a href="/gnt/esther/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> The regular beauty treatment for the women lasted a year--massages with oil of myrrh for six months and with oil of balsam for six more. After that, each woman would be taken in turn to King Xerxes. <a href="/isv/esther/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> Each young woman's turn came to go in to King Ahasuerus at the end of the twelve month period, at which time she was treated according to the regulations for women. This process completed the period of her beauty treatments—six months with oil of myrrh and six months with spices and cosmetics for women. <a href="/msb/esther/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> In the twelve months before her turn to go to King Xerxes, the harem regulation required each young woman to receive beauty treatments with oil of myrrh for six months, and then with perfumes and cosmetics for another six months. <a href="/net/esther/2.htm">NET Bible</a> At the end of the twelve months that were required for the women, when the turn of each young woman arrived to go to King Ahasuerus--for in this way they had to fulfill their time of cosmetic treatment: six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with perfume and various ointments used by women-- <a href="/nheb/esther/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Each young woman's turn came to go in to King Achshayarsh after her purification for twelve months (for so were the days of their purification accomplished, six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with sweet fragrances and with preparations for beautifying women). <a href="/wbt/esther/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Now when every maid's turn had come to go in to king Ahasuerus, after that she had been twelve months, according to the manner of the women, (for so were the days of their purifications accomplished, to wit, six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with sweet odors, and with other things for the purifying of the women;) <a href="/web/esther/2.htm">World English Bible</a> Each young woman’s turn came to go in to King Ahasuerus after her purification for twelve months (for so were the days of their purification accomplished, six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with sweet fragrances and with preparations for beautifying women). <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/esther/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And in the drawing near of the turn of each young woman to come in to King Ahasuerus, at the end of there being to her—according to the law of the women—twelve months, for so they fulfill the days of their purifications; six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with perfumes, and with the purifications of women, <a href="/ylt/esther/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And in the drawing nigh of the turn of each young woman to come in unto the king Ahasuerus, at the end of there being to her -- according to the law of the women -- twelve months, for so they fulfil the days of their purifications; six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with spices, and with the purifications of women, <a href="/slt/esther/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And in the coming of the order of maiden and maiden to come in to the king Ahasuerus, from the end of there being to her, according to edict; of women twelve months (for so shall be completed the days of their purifications, six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with spices, and with the purifications of the women;)<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/esther/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Now when every virgin's turn came to go in to the king, after all had been done for setting them off to advantage, it was the twelfth month: so that for six months they were anointed with oil of myrrh, and for other six months they used certain perfumes and sweet spices. <a href="/cpdv/esther/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> <V 4:12>But, when the time came for each in the line of young women to go in to the king, after everything had been completed concerning feminine grooming, the twelfth month had been reached, to the extent that for six months they were anointed with oil of myrrh, and for another six months they used certain types of makeup and perfumes. <a href="/nabre/esther/2.htm">New American Bible</a> After the twelve months’ preparation decreed for the women, each one went in turn to visit King Ahasuerus. During this period of beautifying treatment, six months were spent with oil of myrrh, and the other six months with perfumes and cosmetics. <a href="/nrsvce/esther/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> The turn came for each girl to go in to King Ahasuerus, after being twelve months under the regulations for the women, since this was the regular period of their cosmetic treatment, six months with oil of myrrh and six months with perfumes and cosmetics for women.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/esther/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Now when the turn of each maiden was come to go in before King Akhshirash, after she had been twelve months, according to the manner of the women (for so were the days of their purification accomplished, every six days with oil of myrrh and every six days with spices and with other things for the purifying of the women); <a href="/hpbt/esther/2.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And whenever the time had arrived that one of the girls was to enter before King Akhashiresh, when twelve days were done for her according to the law of women, because thus were finished the days of their adornments, six days of oil of myrrh, and six days of ointment and in the adorning of the women<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/esther/2.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> Now when the turn of every maiden was come to go in to king Ahasuerus, after that it had been done to her according to the law for the women, twelve months--for so were the days of their anointing accomplished, to wit, six months with oil of myrrh, and six month with sweet odours, and with other ointments of the women-- <a href="/sep/esther/2.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> Now this was the time for a virgin to go into the king, when she should have fulfilled twelve months; for so are the days of purification fulfilled, six months while they are anointing themselves with oil of myrrh, and six months with spices and women's purifications. <a href="/parallel/esther/2-12.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TRosJDhNG-8?start=411" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/esther/2.htm">Esther Finds Favor</a> …11And every day Mordecai would walk back and forth in front of the court of the harem to learn about Esther’s welfare and what was happening to her. 12<a href="/hebrew/8147.htm" title="8147: šə·nêm (Number-md) -- Two (a card. number). Dual of sheniy; feminine shttayim; two; also twofold.">In the twelve</a> <a href="/hebrew/6240.htm" title="6240: ‘ā·śār (Number-msc) -- Ten. For eser; ten, i.e. -teen; also -teenth."></a> <a href="/hebrew/2320.htm" title="2320: ḥō·ḏeš (N-ms) -- New moon, a month. From chadash; the new moon; by implication, a month.">months</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî (Conj) -- That, for, when. "></a> <a href="/hebrew/3651.htm" title="3651: kên (Adv) -- So, thus. From kuwn; properly, set upright; hence just; but usually rightly or so."></a> <a href="/hebrew/4390.htm" title="4390: yim·lə·’ū (V-Qal-Imperf-3mp) -- To be full, to fill. Or malae; a primitive root, to fill or be full of, in a wide application."></a> <a href="/hebrew/3117.htm" title="3117: yə·mê (N-mpc) -- Day. From an unused root meaning to be hot; a day, whether literal, or figurative."></a> <a href="/hebrew/5291.htm" title="5291: na·‘ă·rāh (N-fs) -- A girl, maiden. Feminine of na'ar; a girl.">before her</a> <a href="/hebrew/5291.htm" title="5291: wə·na·‘ă·rāh (Conj-w:: N-fs) -- A girl, maiden. Feminine of na'ar; a girl."></a> <a href="/hebrew/8447.htm" title="8447: tōr (N-msc) -- A plait, turn. Or tor; from tuwr; a succession, i.e. A string or order.">turn</a> <a href="/hebrew/5060.htm" title="5060: ū·ḇə·hag·gî·a‘ (Conj-w, Prep:: V-Hifil-Inf) -- A primitive root; properly, to touch, i.e. Lay the hand upon; by implication, to reach; violently, to strike."></a> <a href="/hebrew/935.htm" title="935: lā·ḇō·w (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To come in, come, go in, go. A primitive root; to go or come.">to go</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/4428.htm" title="4428: ham·me·leḵ (Art:: N-ms) -- King. From malak; a king.">King</a> <a href="/hebrew/325.htm" title="325: ’ă·ḥaš·wê·rō·wōš (N-proper-ms) -- King of Persia. Or pachashrosh; of Persian origin; Achashverosh, the title of a Persian king.">Xerxes,</a> <a href="/hebrew/7093.htm" title="7093: miq·qêṣ (Prep-m:: N-ms) -- End. Contracted from qatsats; an extremity; adverbially after."></a> <a href="/hebrew/1961.htm" title="1961: hĕ·yō·wṯ (V-Qal-Inf) -- To fall out, come to pass, become, be. A primitive root; to exist, i.e. Be or become, come to pass."></a> <a href="/hebrew/lāh (Prep:: 3fs) -- "></a> <a href="/hebrew/802.htm" title="802: han·nā·šîm (Art:: N-fp) -- Woman, wife, female. Feminine of 'iysh or 'enowsh; irregular plural, nashiym; a woman.">the harem</a> <a href="/hebrew/1881.htm" title="1881: kə·ḏāṯ (Prep-k:: N-fsc) -- Decree, law. Of uncertain derivation: a royal edict or statute.">regulation required</a> <a href="/hebrew/802.htm" title="802: han·nā·šîm (Art:: N-fp) -- Woman, wife, female. Feminine of 'iysh or 'enowsh; irregular plural, nashiym; a woman.">each young woman</a> <a href="/hebrew/4795.htm" title="4795: mə·rū·qê·hen (N-mpc:: 3fp) -- A scraping, rubbing. From maraq; properly, rubbed; but used abstractly, a rubbing.">to receive beauty treatments</a> <a href="/hebrew/8081.htm" title="8081: bə·še·men (Prep-b:: N-msc) -- Fat, oil. From shaman; grease, especially liquid; figuratively, richness.">with oil</a> <a href="/hebrew/4753.htm" title="4753: ham·mōr (Art:: N-ms) -- Myrrh. Or mowr; from marar; myrrh.">of myrrh</a> <a href="/hebrew/8337.htm" title="8337: šiš·šāh (Number-ms) -- Masculine shishshah; a primitive number; six (see suws) beyond five or the fingers of the hand); as ord. Sixth.">for six</a> <a href="/hebrew/2320.htm" title="2320: ḥo·ḏā·šîm (N-mp) -- New moon, a month. From chadash; the new moon; by implication, a month.">months,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1314.htm" title="1314: bab·bə·śā·mîm (Prep-b, Art:: N-mp) -- Spice, balsam, the balsam tree. Or bosem; from the same as basam; fragrance; by implication, spicery; also the balsam plant.">and then with perfumes</a> <a href="/hebrew/8562.htm" title="8562: ū·ḇə·ṯam·rū·qê (Conj-w, Prep-b:: N-mpc) -- Or tamruq; or tamriyq; from maraq; properly, a scouring, i.e. Soap or perfumery for the bath; figuratively, a detergent.">and cosmetics</a> <a href="/hebrew/8337.htm" title="8337: wə·šiš·šāh (Conj-w:: Number-ms) -- Masculine shishshah; a primitive number; six (see suws) beyond five or the fingers of the hand); as ord. Sixth.">for another six</a> <a href="/hebrew/2320.htm" title="2320: ḥo·ḏā·šîm (N-mp) -- New moon, a month. From chadash; the new moon; by implication, a month.">months.</a> 13When the young woman would go to the king, she was given whatever she requested to take with her from the harem to the king’s palace.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/esther/1-3.htm">Esther 1:3-4</a> In the third year of his reign, Xerxes held a feast for all his officials and servants. The military leaders of Persia and Media were there, along with the nobles and princes of the provinces. / And for a full 180 days he displayed the glorious riches of his kingdom and the magnificent splendor of his greatness. <a href="/esther/4-14.htm">Esther 4:14</a> For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows if perhaps you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” <a href="/esther/5-1.htm">Esther 5:1-2</a> On the third day, Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace across from the king’s quarters. The king was sitting on his royal throne in the royal courtroom, facing the entrance. / As soon as the king saw Queen Esther standing in the court, she found favor in his sight. The king extended the gold scepter in his hand toward Esther, and she approached and touched the tip of the scepter. <a href="/esther/8-15.htm">Esther 8:15</a> Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal garments of blue and white, with a large gold crown and a purple robe of fine linen. And the city of Susa shouted and rejoiced. <a href="/esther/9-20.htm">Esther 9:20-22</a> Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to all the Jews in all the provinces of King Xerxes, both near and far, / to establish among them an annual celebration on the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar / as the days on which the Jews gained rest from their enemies and the month in which their sorrow turned to joy and their mourning into a holiday. He wrote that these were to be days of feasting and joy, of sending gifts to one another and to the poor. <a href="/1_kings/10-1.htm">1 Kings 10:1-2</a> Now when the queen of Sheba heard about the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the LORD, she came to test him with difficult questions. / She arrived in Jerusalem with a very large caravan—with camels bearing spices, gold in great abundance, and precious stones. And she came to Solomon and spoke to him all that was on her mind. <a href="/1_kings/2-12.htm">1 Kings 2:12-14</a> So Solomon sat on the throne of his father David, and his kingdom was firmly established. / Now Adonijah son of Haggith went to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon, and she asked, “Do you come in peace?” “Yes, in peace,” he replied. / Then he said, “I have something to tell you.” “Say it,” she answered. <a href="/2_chronicles/9-1.htm">2 Chronicles 9:1-2</a> Now when the queen of Sheba heard about the fame of Solomon, she came to test him with difficult questions. She arrived in Jerusalem with a very large caravan—with camels bearing spices, gold in abundance, and precious stones. And she came to Solomon and spoke with him about all that was on her mind. / And Solomon answered all her questions; nothing was too difficult for him to explain. <a href="/proverbs/31-10.htm">Proverbs 31:10-12</a> A wife of noble character, who can find? She is far more precious than rubies. / The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he lacks nothing of value. / She brings him good and not harm all the days of her life. <a href="/songs/1-3.htm">Song of Solomon 1:3</a> The fragrance of your perfume is pleasing; your name is like perfume poured out. No wonder the maidens adore you. <a href="/songs/4-10.htm">Song of Solomon 4:10-11</a> How delightful is your love, my sister, my bride! Your love is much better than wine, and the fragrance of your perfume than all spices. / Your lips, my bride, drip sweetness like the honeycomb; honey and milk are under your tongue, and the fragrance of your garments is like the aroma of Lebanon. <a href="/isaiah/3-16.htm">Isaiah 3:16-24</a> The LORD also says: “Because the daughters of Zion are haughty—walking with heads held high and wanton eyes, prancing and skipping as they go, jingling the bracelets on their ankles— / the Lord will bring sores on the heads of the daughters of Zion, and the LORD will make their foreheads bare.” / In that day the Lord will take away their finery: their anklets and headbands and crescents; ... <a href="/ezekiel/23-40.htm">Ezekiel 23:40</a> Furthermore, you sisters sent messengers for men who came from afar; and behold, when they arrived, you bathed for them, painted your eyes, and adorned yourself with jewelry. <a href="/daniel/1-5.htm">Daniel 1:5</a> The king assigned them daily provisions of the royal food and wine. They were to be trained for three years, after which they were to enter the king’s service. <a href="/matthew/6-17.htm">Matthew 6:17</a> But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face,</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Now when every maid's turn was come to go in to king Ahasuerus, after that she had been twelve months, according to the manner of the women, (for so were the days of their purifications accomplished, to wit, six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with sweet odors, and with other things for the purifying of the women;)A.<a href="/1_thessalonians/4-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 4:4,5</a> That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour; … six months.<a href="/proverbs/7-17.htm">Proverbs 7:17</a> I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.<a href="/songs/3-6.htm">Song of Solomon 3:6</a> Who is this that cometh out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all powders of the merchant?<a href="/isaiah/57-9.htm">Isaiah 57:9</a> And thou wentest to the king with ointment, and didst increase thy perfumes, and didst send thy messengers far off, and didst debase thyself even unto hell.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/nehemiah/6-16.htm">Accomplished</a> <a href="/esther/2-1.htm">Ahasuerus</a> <a href="/judges/9-15.htm">Anointing</a> <a href="/leviticus/26-31.htm">Fragrances</a> <a href="/esther/2-9.htm">Maiden</a> <a href="/exodus/21-26.htm">Maid's</a> <a href="/esther/1-13.htm">Manner</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/36-9.htm">Months</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/9-24.htm">Myrrh</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/16-14.htm">Odors</a> <a href="/ezra/6-10.htm">Odours</a> <a href="/nehemiah/13-12.htm">Oil</a> <a href="/2_chronicles/35-14.htm">Preparations</a> <a href="/esther/2-9.htm">Purification</a> <a href="/nehemiah/7-69.htm">Six</a> <a href="/nehemiah/8-10.htm">Sweet</a> <a href="/nehemiah/9-35.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/nehemiah/7-24.htm">Twelve</a> <a href="/nehemiah/11-3.htm">Wit</a> <a href="/2_kings/6-30.htm">Woman's</a> <a href="/esther/2-11.htm">Women</a> <a href="/esther/2-9.htm">Young</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/job/15-32.htm">Accomplished</a> <a href="/esther/2-16.htm">Ahasuerus</a> <a href="/psalms/45-7.htm">Anointing</a> <a href="/leviticus/26-31.htm">Fragrances</a> <a href="/esther/2-13.htm">Maiden</a> <a href="/exodus/21-26.htm">Maid's</a> <a href="/job/31-33.htm">Manner</a> <a href="/job/3-6.htm">Months</a> <a href="/psalms/45-8.htm">Myrrh</a> <a href="/jeremiah/34-5.htm">Odors</a> <a href="/jeremiah/34-5.htm">Odours</a> <a href="/job/20-17.htm">Oil</a> <a href="/proverbs/16-1.htm">Preparations</a> <a href="/zechariah/13-1.htm">Purification</a> <a href="/job/5-19.htm">Six</a> <a href="/job/20-12.htm">Sweet</a> <a href="/esther/2-15.htm">Turn</a> <a href="/psalms/59-17.htm">Twelve</a> <a href="/jeremiah/25-18.htm">Wit</a> <a href="/ezekiel/36-17.htm">Woman's</a> <a href="/esther/2-13.htm">Women</a> <a href="/esther/2-13.htm">Young</a><div class="vheading2">Esther 2</div>1. <a href="/esther/2-1.htm">Out of the choice of virgins a queen is to be chosen.</a> 5. <a href="/esther/2-5.htm">Mordecai the nursing father of Esther.</a> 8. <a href="/esther/2-8.htm">Esther preferred before the rest.</a> 12. <a href="/esther/2-12.htm">The manner of purification, and going in to the king.</a> 15. <a href="/esther/2-15.htm">Esther, best pleasing the king, is made queen.</a> 21. <a href="/esther/2-21.htm">Mordecai, discovering a treason, is recorded in the chronicles.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/esther/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/esther/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/esther/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>In the twelve months before her turn to go to King Xerxes This phrase sets the stage for the preparation period required for the young women before they could meet King Xerxes. The twelve-month period reflects the Persian custom of extensive preparation, emphasizing the importance placed on physical beauty and presentation in the royal court. This time frame also indicates the level of competition and the high stakes involved in being chosen as queen. The mention of King Xerxes connects to the historical figure known as Xerxes I, who reigned from 486-465 BC, providing a historical anchor for the events in the Book of Esther.the harem regulation required each young woman to receive beauty treatments The harem was a secluded part of the royal household where the king's wives and concubines lived. The regulation of beauty treatments underscores the structured and controlled environment of the Persian court. This practice highlights the cultural emphasis on external beauty and the lengths to which the empire went to ensure that the women presented to the king were of the highest standard. The concept of beauty treatments can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual preparation, drawing a parallel to the Christian idea of sanctification and being made ready for the presence of the King of Kings.with oil of myrrh for six months Myrrh, a resin used for its fragrance and medicinal properties, was highly valued in ancient times. Its use in beauty treatments signifies purification and anointing, which can be seen as a type of Christ, who was anointed with myrrh (<a href="/mark/15-23.htm">Mark 15:23</a>, <a href="/john/19-39.htm">John 19:39</a>). The six-month period of treatment with myrrh suggests a thorough process of purification and preparation, symbolizing the need for spiritual cleansing and readiness in the presence of God.and then with perfumes and cosmetics for another six months The additional six months of treatment with perfumes and cosmetics further emphasizes the importance of beauty and presentation in the Persian court. Perfumes and cosmetics were used to enhance attractiveness and appeal, reflecting the cultural values of the time. This extended period of beautification can be seen as a parallel to the Christian life, where believers are continually being transformed and prepared for their ultimate meeting with Christ. The use of perfumes and cosmetics also connects to the biblical theme of fragrance as a symbol of worship and devotion (<a href="/2_corinthians/2-15.htm">2 Corinthians 2:15</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/e/esther.htm">Esther</a> A Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia. Her account is central to the Book of Esther, highlighting her courage and faith. 2. <a href="/topical/k/king_xerxes.htm">King Xerxes</a> The Persian king who seeks a new queen, leading to Esther's rise to prominence. 3. <a href="/topical/s/susa.htm">Susa</a> The capital of the Persian Empire, where the events of the Book of Esther take place. 4. <a href="/topical/b/beauty_treatments.htm">Beauty Treatments</a> A year-long regimen of beautification for women, involving oil of myrrh and perfumes, as part of the preparation to meet the king. 5. <a href="/topical/p/persian_empire.htm">Persian Empire</a> The vast empire ruled by King Xerxes, setting the backdrop for the events in Esther.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/p/preparation_and_purpose.htm">Preparation and Purpose</a> Just as Esther underwent a period of preparation, God often prepares us for His purposes in ways we may not immediately understand. <a href="/topical/i/inner_vs._outer_beauty.htm">Inner vs. Outer Beauty</a> While Esther's account involves physical beauty treatments, Scripture consistently emphasizes the importance of inner beauty and character. <a href="/topical/d/divine_timing.htm">Divine Timing</a> Esther's preparation period reminds us that God's timing is perfect, and we must trust His process in our lives. <a href="/topical/c/cultural_context.htm">Cultural Context</a> Understanding the cultural practices of the time helps us appreciate the challenges Esther faced and the courage she displayed. <a href="/topical/f/faith_in_action.htm">Faith in Action</a> Esther's account encourages us to act in faith, trusting that God can use us in significant ways, even in challenging circumstances.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_esther_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Esther 2</a> <a href="/q/why_don't_records_verify_esther_2_12.htm">Why do historical records outside the Bible not verify the extensive beauty regimen described in Esther 2:12? </a> <a href="/q/does_esther_2_9_contradict_persian_customs.htm">Does Esther 2:9’s mention of special favor contradict known Persian customs for selecting a royal consort? </a> <a href="/q/who_was_queen_vashti_in_the_bible.htm">Who was Queen Vashti in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/what_challenges_did_esther_face.htm">What challenges did Esther face in her life?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/esther/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(12) Manner.--Translate, law or ordinance, as in <a href="/esther/1-8.htm" title="And the drinking was according to the law; none did compel: for so the king had appointed to all the officers of his house, that they should do according to every man's pleasure.">Esther 1:8</a>; <a href="/esther/1-15.htm" title="What shall we do to the queen Vashti according to law, because she has not performed the commandment of the king Ahasuerus by the chamberlains?">Esther 1:15</a>.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/esther/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 12. - After she had been twelve months, according to the manner of the women. Rather, "After she had been (in the palace), according to the law prescribed to the women, twelve months." A year's purification was considered necessary before any maiden could approach the king (see the comment on ver. 3). Six months with oil of myrrh. Myrrh was highly esteemed, both for its scent and for its purifying power, by the ancients. In Egypt it was employed largely in the preparation of mummies (Herod., 2:86). The Jews were directed to make it one of the chief ingredients in their "holy anointing oil" (<a href="/exodus/30-23.htm">Exodus 30:23-25</a>). Dresses and beds were scented with it (<a href="/psalms/45-8.htm">Psalm 45:8</a>; <a href="/proverbs/7-17.htm">Proverbs 7:17</a>). And six months with sweet odours. The word translated "sweet odours" seems to mean "spices" generally (comp. <a href="/songs/4-16.htm">Song of Solomon 4:16</a>). <a href="/commentaries/esther/2-12.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>In the twelve שְׁנֵ֣ים (šə·nêm) Number - md <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8147.htm">Strong's 8147: </a> Two (a cardinal number) months חֹ֔דֶשׁ (ḥō·ḏeš) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2320.htm">Strong's 2320: </a> The new moon, a month before [her] נַעֲרָ֨ה (na·‘ă·rāh) Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5291.htm">Strong's 5291: </a> A girl, maiden turn תֹּר֩ (tōr) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8447.htm">Strong's 8447: </a> A succession, a string, order to go לָב֣וֹא ׀ (lā·ḇō·w) Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_935.htm">Strong's 935: </a> To come in, come, go in, go to אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to King הַמֶּ֣לֶךְ (ham·me·leḵ) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4428.htm">Strong's 4428: </a> A king Xerxes, אֲחַשְׁוֵר֗וֹשׁ (’ă·ḥaš·wê·rō·wōš) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_325.htm">Strong's 325: </a> Ahasuerus -- king of Persia the harem הַנָּשִׁים֙ (han·nā·šîm) Article | Noun - feminine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_802.htm">Strong's 802: </a> Woman, wife, female regulation required כְּדָ֤ת (kə·ḏāṯ) Preposition-k | Noun - feminine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1881.htm">Strong's 1881: </a> A royal edict, statute [each young woman] הַנָּשִֽׁים׃ (han·nā·šîm) Article | Noun - feminine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_802.htm">Strong's 802: </a> Woman, wife, female to receive beauty treatments מְרוּקֵיהֶ֑ן (mə·rū·qê·hen) Noun - masculine plural construct | third person feminine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4795.htm">Strong's 4795: </a> A scraping, rubbing with oil בְּשֶׁ֣מֶן (bə·še·men) Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8081.htm">Strong's 8081: </a> Grease, liquid, richness of myrrh הַמֹּ֔ר (ham·mōr) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4753.htm">Strong's 4753: </a> Myrrh for six שִׁשָּׁ֤ה (šiš·šāh) Number - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8337.htm">Strong's 8337: </a> Six (a cardinal number) months, חֳדָשִׁים֙ (ḥo·ḏā·šîm) Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2320.htm">Strong's 2320: </a> The new moon, a month and then with perfumes בַּבְּשָׂמִ֔ים (bab·bə·śā·mîm) Preposition-b, Article | Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1314.htm">Strong's 1314: </a> Fragrance, spicery, the balsam plant and cosmetics וּבְתַמְרוּקֵ֖י (ū·ḇə·ṯam·rū·qê) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8562.htm">Strong's 8562: </a> A scouring, soap, perfumery for, the bath, a detergent for another six וְשִׁשָּׁ֤ה (wə·šiš·šāh) Conjunctive waw | Number - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8337.htm">Strong's 8337: </a> Six (a cardinal number) months. חֳדָשִׁים֙ (ḥo·ḏā·šîm) Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2320.htm">Strong's 2320: </a> The new moon, a month <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/esther/2-12.htm">Esther 2:12 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/esther/2-12.htm">Esther 2:12 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/esther/2-12.htm">Esther 2:12 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/esther/2-12.htm">Esther 2:12 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/esther/2-12.htm">Esther 2:12 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/esther/2-12.htm">Esther 2:12 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/esther/2-12.htm">Esther 2:12 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/esther/2-12.htm">Esther 2:12 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/esther/2-12.htm">Esther 2:12 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/esther/2-12.htm">Esther 2:12 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/esther/2-12.htm">OT History: Esther 2:12 Each young woman's turn came to go (Est Esth. Es) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/esther/2-11.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Esther 2:11"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Esther 2:11" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/esther/2-13.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Esther 2:13"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Esther 2:13" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>