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;)

ESTHER 2:12KJV
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Esther 2:12 (KJV)

What does Esther 2:12 mean?

Esther 2:12 explains that before each young woman could meet King Ahasuerus, she had to complete a year-long period of beauty treatments—six months with oil of myrrh and six months with perfumes and other preparations. This was the standard process for women brought to the king’s palace as potential queens.

This verse describes the careful and lengthy preparation required for the women in the Persian royal court. The writer is narrating the customs of the time, showing how much emphasis was placed on ritual purification and appearance before anyone could approach the king. It sets the scene for Esther’s own introduction to the king and highlights the elaborate traditions of the Persian empire.

The Hebrew behind Esther 2:12

  • "Purifications" (טַהֲרוּת, taharut): This word means cleansing or purification, emphasizing that the process was not just about beauty but also ritual cleanliness according to Persian custom.
  • "Oil of myrrh" (שֶׁמֶן מֹר, shemen mor): Myrrh oil was used for its fragrance and possibly for its preservative and skin-softening qualities, showing the luxury and care involved.
  • "Odours" (בְּשָׂמִים, besamim): This refers to aromatic spices or perfumes, underlining that the treatments were both practical and symbolic, preparing the women for royal presence.
  • "Manner" (דַּת, dat): This word means law or custom, indicating that this process was not optional but a required tradition for all women brought before the king.

Why Esther 2:12 matters

  • Esther 2:12 clears up the misconception that Esther’s selection was quick or casual; it shows the process was formal, lengthy, and involved strict customs.
  • The verse highlights the power and wealth of the Persian empire, where even the preparation of potential queens was a year-long affair.
  • Understanding this background helps the reader appreciate the significance of Esther’s later favor with the king, as she went through the same process as all the other women.