Esther finds favor with her king

When we understand the significance of the custom shown in this next verse, we can appreciate what a truly glorious and dramatic moment this is. What a reward for Esther’s fasting and prayers in behalf of her people!

The account records, “...when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favour in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden scepter.... So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the scepter” (Esther 5:2)

F. J. Olsen tells us more about this event:


" The scepter in this verse has many different meanings in the original Hebrew text: “a scion, a rod, a staff.” Each had various uses. Two of these uses were the king’s issuing a command for debate and his signaling the execution of a royal order--a ruling of “so be it.” This scepter symbolized the power emanating from his throne. It is interesting and very revealing that Esther was in the inner court only moments when she was made welcome. In essence, she was invited to share the power and authority that only the king could wield. Further, no one, absolutely no one except the king, was permitted to touch this scepter.


The Hebrew word translated “touched” also carries the definitions of “draw near (nigh), join, and acquire.” There is a sense of intimate union in this word. The king is saying, “What is mine is yours.” He wanted Esther to know that all of his resources were hers."


When things look dark, perhaps this example can cheer us. As we exercise our faith and prayers and fasting during these challenging times, surely we will find in our Heavenly father a king whose unending resources are also available to us.