Who was Karshena?
Karshena was one of the seven princes of Persia and Media who served under King Xerxes (also known as Ahasuerus) during the events recorded in the Book of Esther. His name appears only once in Scripture—in Esther 1:14—where he is listed among the royal advisors who had access to the king’s presence and held the highest positions in the kingdom. The name Karshena (Hebrew: כַּרְשְׁנָא, Karshĕnā’) is of uncertain origin but is likely of Persian derivation, possibly meaning “illustrious” or “splendid.”
Biblical Reference
Karshena is found in the context of Esther 1:14 (NIV):
“the seven nobles of Persia and Media who had special access to the king and were highest in the kingdom—Karshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena and Memukan.”
These nobles were consulted when Queen Vashti refused to appear before King Xerxes at his banquet, a decision that would trigger a national decree and ultimately set the stage for Esther’s rise to queenship.
Cross-References
- Esther 1:10-22 – The broader passage where Karshena and the other nobles are introduced and consulted.
- Daniel 6:1-3 – Another example of a Persian king surrounding himself with high-ranking officials.
- Esther 2:17 – Esther’s elevation after Vashti’s removal, made possible by the counsel of men like Karshena.
Role in the Biblical Narrative
Karshena’s appearance in the biblical narrative is brief, yet it places him at the heart of a pivotal event in Israel‘s history during the exile. As one of the “seven who saw the king’s face” (Esther 1:14), he occupied a trusted and powerful role in the Persian court. These were not merely advisors but were akin to a royal cabinet—privileged men who shaped imperial policy.
When Queen Vashti disobeyed the king’s summons, Karshena, along with the other six nobles, was consulted regarding the proper response. While Memukan is the one credited with speaking up and suggesting Vashti’s removal (Esther 1:16-20), Karshena’s presence indicates that he was part of this decision-making body that altered the course of Persian and Jewish history.
Though Karshena is not mentioned again, his involvement in this moment reflects the workings of God’s providence behind the scenes. Vashti’s removal made way for Esther—a Jewish woman—to become queen, which later allowed her to intercede for her people and prevent their annihilation (Esther 4:14-16).
Lessons for Today’s Christians
Karshena’s brief role in Scripture underscores an important truth: God uses even those who do not know Him to accomplish His sovereign purposes. Karshena, a pagan official in a foreign empire, was part of a royal circle that made a decision opening the path for Esther’s rise. Though his actions were not motivated by devotion to God, they were used by God for His redemptive plan.
For believers today, this highlights how God‘s providence is always at work—even in political and cultural systems that seem far removed from godliness. The Lord’s hand is never absent, and He can use both the righteous and the unrighteous to bring about His will.
Connection to Jesus and the Gospel
Karshena’s story—though seemingly insignificant—fits into the larger narrative of Scripture that points to Christ. Esther’s eventual elevation and intercession for her people foreshadow the work of Jesus, our ultimate intercessor and advocate (Hebrews 7:25). Just as Esther risked her life to save her people from destruction, Jesus gave His life to deliver us from sin and death.
Moreover, the Book of Esther, with its unseen but active divine hand, reminds us of how God orchestrates redemption, often through surprising means. The political decisions made in the Persian court—by men like Karshena—set in motion the salvation of God‘s people, a pattern that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. God’s Sovereignty Over Nations
Karshena’s inclusion in the story of Esther reveals God‘s sovereignty over world empires. Persia was the dominant power of its time, yet God was guiding its internal affairs for His redemptive purposes.
2. Providence Through Ordinary People
Karshena is not a prophet, priest, or Israelite—he is a Persian noble. Yet his presence in the narrative reinforces that God’s providence extends beyond the boundaries of Israel to all people, using the decisions of rulers and advisors to fulfill His plan.
3. Hidden Yet Present God
The Book of Esther famously never mentions the name of God directly, yet His fingerprints are on every event. Karshena’s part in initiating the sequence that led to Esther becoming queen reminds readers that even anonymous or background figures can play key roles in divine history.
Reflection Questions
- What does Karshena’s brief mention teach us about God’s ability to use anyone for His purposes?
- How should Christians view political and governmental leaders in light of God’s sovereignty?
- In what ways does Esther’s rise to queenship foreshadow the work of Christ?
- Can you think of times when you’ve seen God’s hand at work through unexpected people or decisions?
- How can we trust God’s providence even when He seems hidden in our current circumstances?
Though Karshena’s name is only briefly mentioned, his presence in the court of King Xerxes during a decisive moment reveals how every thread in God’s tapestry matters. Even the advisors of pagan kings play a part in preparing the way for God’s redemptive work through His people—and ultimately, through Jesus Christ.