Overview
Shethar is mentioned as one of seven princes of the Persian empire who had access to the king and held the highest positions of authority. These princes advised King Ahasuerus and were instrumental in implementing royal decrees. Shethar's inclusion among these elite officials demonstrates the complex political structure of the ancient Persian kingdom during the time of Esther.
Key Scriptures
"And the king loved Esther more than all the women, and she won grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins, so that he set the royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti. And the king gave a great banquet to all his officials and servants; it was Esther's banquet. He proclaimed a holiday throughout the provinces and gave gifts with royal liberality." (Esther 2:17-18, ESV)
"And the next to him were Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media, who saw the king's face, and sat the first in the kingdom" (Esther 1:14, NASB)
Application
Shethar's role reminds us that God works through all levels of human government and authority to accomplish His purposes, even when earthly rulers are unaware of His hand.