Esther 2:7 (KJV)

What does Esther 2:7 mean?

Esther 2:7 explains that Mordecai raised his cousin Hadassah, also called Esther, as his own daughter because both her parents had died, and she was known for her beauty. The verse introduces Esther’s background and her close relationship with Mordecai, setting the stage for her role in the story.

In the setting of the Book of Esther, this verse gives important family details: Mordecai, a Jewish man living in exile, takes responsibility for his orphaned relative. The verse highlights Esther’s Hebrew name (Hadassah) and her Persian name (Esther), showing her dual identity in a foreign land. This family connection and her appearance will be important for the events that follow.

The Hebrew behind Esther 2:7

• "Hadassah" (הֲדַסָּה, Hadassah) is Esther’s Hebrew name, meaning "myrtle," a plant often associated with beauty and hope in Jewish tradition. The use of both names shows her Jewish roots and her place in Persian society.
• "Fair" (יָפֶה, yafeh and תֹּאַר, to’ar) and "beautiful" (טוֹב, tov and מַרְאֶה, mar’eh) are two pairs of Hebrew words used to describe Esther’s appearance. The verse uses multiple words to emphasize both her physical beauty and her attractive presence.
• "Took" (לָקַח, laqach) means Mordecai took Esther as his own daughter, not just cared for her. This word often implies a formal or committed action, highlighting Mordecai’s sense of duty and affection.

Why Esther 2:7 matters

• Esther 2:7 clarifies that Esther was an orphan and that Mordecai was not her biological father, but her older cousin who became her guardian. This detail helps explain their close relationship and why Mordecai is so protective of her later in the story.
• The verse emphasizes Esther’s dual identity by naming her both Hadassah and Esther, which becomes important as she navigates life in a foreign court while remaining connected to her Jewish heritage.
• By describing Esther’s beauty with several Hebrew words, the verse sets up why she is chosen to be presented to the king, which is a key turning point in the narrative.