The Power of Honor: A Reflection on Esther 1:20
"And when the king's decree which he shall make shall be published throughout all his empire, (for it is great,) all the wives shall give to their husbands honour, both to great and small." - Esther 1:20
The book of Esther is not merely a historical account but a profound narrative that reveals the interplay of power, honor, and divine providence. In Esther 1:20, we find a striking decree that the king commands regarding the honor that wives should give to their husbands: "And when the king's decree which he shall make shall be published throughout all his empire, (for it is great,) all the wives shall give to their husbands honour, both to great and small."
At first glance, it might seem that this verse serves mainly to reinforce societal norms of ancient Persia in which men held authority and wives were expected to honor them publicly. However, to delve deeper into the context of this command is to unearth the complexities of human relationships and the deep call to honor that exists between partners.
A king's decree in ancient times carried immense weight. It held the power to shape behavior across vast territories and instigate societal changes. When King Xerxes issued this decree, it was not just a ruling for the sake of ruling; it came after a public display of his own pride and authority when he sought to control the narrative not just at his table but throughout the realm. The actions of Vashti, who refused to display herself as commanded, caused the king to react in a way that would solidify his standing and the social expectations of his day.
Yet, this decree raises an important question for believers today: What is the essence of honor in our relationships? In a successful marriage or partnership, honor is not simply about submission or following rules—it is about respect, admiration, and a willingness to uplift one another, regardless of status. The honor we extend to each other enriches our relationships and makes them reflective of a Christ-like love.
Honor transcends societal expectations and touches on the spiritual warfare we often face. First Peter 2:17 advises us to "Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king." Here, honor is not only reserved for spouses but is a principle that should govern how we interact with everyone around us, acknowledging the divine image in each person? This teaches us that honor in marriage is deeply rooted in our mutual respect and understanding, extending the grace we receive from God to those we love.
If we look closely at Esther, we see an example of a woman who understood her position and influence. Although her role was primarily to serve as queen in a patriarchal society, she navigated her challenges with wisdom and grace. Esther's honor towards her husband and her people navigated her through perilous situations. When we honor our spouses, we do not lose our identity; instead, we fulfill our divine calling in a way that brings glory to God. A marriage built on mutual honor and respect becomes a sanctuary of grace, reassurance, and love.
The king's decree also serves as a reminder that God is intricately involved in our lives and circumstances. Esther's story reveals how God orchestrated events behind the scenes to align with His divine purpose. When we honor one another, we allow God to work through us, creating a beautiful picture of unity that draws others to Him. This thought is echoed in Ephesians 5:21, which implores us to "Submit yourselves one to another in the fear of God." Honor is not a simple act but a posture of the heart that thrives on love, sacrifice, and a commitment to the well-being of the other person.
As we reflect on Esther 1:20, let us cultivate honor in our homes and relationships. Let us be diligent in proclaiming the worth of our spouses, holding them in high regard not just in words but in actions. Remember, honor is not confined to grand gestures but is found in the daily decisions we make to uplift and cherish one another. In doing so, we demonstrate the love of Christ and fulfill the biblical mandate to reflect His glory in our marriages and beyond.
Want to reflect more on Esther 1:20?
Continue your spiritual journey with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, discover connections, and deepen your understanding.
Get Our Apps
Esther 1:20 Artwork
Esther 1:20 - "And when the king's decree which he shall make shall be published throughout all his empire, (for it is great,) all the wives shall give to their husbands honour, both to great and small."
"And when the king's decree which he shall make shall be published throughout all his empire, (for it is great,) all the wives shall give to their husbands honour, both to great and small." - Esther 1:20
Esther 2:20 - "Esther had not yet shewed her kindred nor her people; as Mordecai had charged her: for Esther did the commandment of Mordecai, like as when she was brought up with him."
Esther 7:1 - "So the king and Haman came to banquet with Esther the queen."
Esther 1:17
Esther 8:1 - "On that day did the king Ahasuerus give the house of Haman the Jews' enemy unto Esther the queen. And Mordecai came before the king; for Esther had told what he was unto her."
Esther 1:6
Esther, the courageous queen
"So the king and Haman came to banquet with Esther the queen." - Esther 7:1
"Esther had not yet shewed her kindred nor her people; as Mordecai had charged her: for Esther did the commandment of Mordecai, like as when she was brought up with him." - Esther 2:20
Esther 9:20 - "¶ And Mordecai wrote these things, and sent letters unto all the Jews that were in all the provinces of the king Ahasuerus, both nigh and far,"
Esther 10:1 - "And the king Ahasuerus laid a tribute upon the land, and upon the isles of the sea."
Esther 1:21 - "And the saying pleased the king and the princes; and the king did according to the word of Memucan:"
"On that day did the king Ahasuerus give the house of Haman the Jews' enemy unto Esther the queen. And Mordecai came before the king; for Esther had told what he was unto her." - Esther 8:1
Esther 5:1 - "Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther put on her royal apparel, and stood in the inner court of the king's house, over against the king's house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal house, over against the gate of the house."
Esther 1:2 - "That in those days, when the king Ahasuerus sat on the throne of his kingdom, which was in Shushan the palace,"
Esther 1:9 - "Also Vashti the queen made a feast for the women in the royal house which belonged to king Ahasuerus."
Esther 1:1 - "Now it came to pass in the days of Ahasuerus, (this is Ahasuerus which reigned, from India even unto Ethiopia, over an hundred and seven and twenty provinces:)"
Esther 6:1 - "On that night could not the king sleep, and he commanded to bring the book of records of the chronicles; and they were read before the king."
Esther 1:11 - "To bring Vashti the queen before the king with the crown royal, to shew the people and the princes her beauty: for she was fair to look on."
Esther 1:13 - "¶ Then the king said to the wise men, which knew the times, (for so was the king's manner toward all that knew law and judgment:"
Esther 1:7 - "And they gave them drink in vessels of gold, (the vessels being diverse one from another,) and royal wine in abundance, according to the state of the king."
Esther 1:4 - "When he shewed the riches of his glorious kingdom and the honour of his excellent majesty many days, even an hundred and fourscore days."
Esther 1:12 - "But the queen Vashti refused to come at the king's commandment by his chamberlains: therefore was the king very wroth, and his anger burned in him."
Esther 2:1 - "After these things, when the wrath of king Ahasuerus was appeased, he remembered Vashti, and what she had done, and what was decreed against her."
Esther 1:15 - "What shall we do unto the queen Vashti according to law, because she hath not performed the commandment of the king Ahasuerus by the chamberlains?"
"¶ And Mordecai wrote these things, and sent letters unto all the Jews that were in all the provinces of the king Ahasuerus, both nigh and far," - Esther 9:20
Esther 1:8 - "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 4:1 - "When Mordecai perceived all that was done, Mordecai rent his clothes, and put on sackcloth with ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and cried with a loud and a bitter cry;"
Esther 3:1 - "After these things did king Ahasuerus promote Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, and advanced him, and set his seat above all the princes that were with him."