1.
What was the name of the king?
Correct Answer
C. Ahasuerus
Explanation
King Ahasuerus, also known as King Xerxes I, is a central figure in the biblical book of Esther. He was the king of Persia and ruled over an extensive empire from India to Ethiopia. In the book of Esther, King Ahasuerus is depicted as a powerful but somewhat capricious ruler. He holds a lavish banquet for his officials and subjects, during which Queen Vashti refuses to obey his command to appear before the guests, leading to her removal from the throne. Subsequently, Ahasuerus selects Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, as his new queen. Throughout the book of Esther, King Ahasuerus plays a key role in the events that unfold, including the thwarting of a plot to assassinate him, the promotion of Haman as his chief advisor, and the eventual salvation of the Jewish people from genocide. Though not always portrayed in a favorable light, Ahasuerus serves as a pivotal character in the narrative, illustrating themes of power, sovereignty, and divine providence.
2.
Where was the throne of his kingdom?
Correct Answer
B. Shusan
Explanation
The throne of his kingdom was located in Shusan. This significant location holds importance in historical and biblical contexts, serving as the seat of power for the ruler. The mention of Shusan often alludes to pivotal events and decisions that shaped the narrative of the kingdom. Throned in Shusan, the ruler exercised authority and governance, making it a central symbol of leadership and the epicenter of political and royal affairs in the historical account or story being referenced.
3.
Who/What is Shushan?
Correct Answer
C. The citadel
Explanation
Shushan refers to the citadel. In historical and biblical contexts, Shushan is often associated with a fortified city or citadel, holding strategic and symbolic significance. The term is used to describe a specific location, typically a stronghold or center of authority within a kingdom. Shushan's mention may be linked to key events, battles, or political decisions, emphasizing its role as a focal point in historical narratives. Understanding the context of Shushan helps unravel its importance in the broader historical or biblical account being referenced.
4.
In what year of his reign did he make a feast for all the officials and servants?
Correct Answer
A. 3rd
Explanation
King Ahasuerus made a feast for all his officials and servants in the third year of his reign. This event is mentioned in the biblical book of Esther, where it serves as the backdrop for the central events of the narrative. The feast is described as a grand and opulent gathering, lasting for 180 days, showcasing the wealth and power of the Persian empire under Ahasuerus' rule. During this feast, King Ahasuerus displays his riches and splendor to his officials, nobles, and servants, impressing them with his magnificence and generosity. The occasion likely served political and diplomatic purposes as well, fostering alliances and demonstrating the king's authority and magnanimity. It is during this extended feast that Queen Vashti, at the king's request, is summoned to appear before the guests. However, she refuses, leading to her subsequent removal from the throne and setting the stage for the events that follow in the book of Esther.
5.
King Ahasuerus showed the riches of his glorious kingdom and the splendor for how many days?
Correct Answer
C. 180
Explanation
King Ahasuerus displayed the riches of his glorious kingdom and the splendor of his majesty for a period of 180 days. This extravagant display of wealth and power was intended to impress and awe his officials, nobles, and servants. The duration of 180 days underscores the grandeur and scale of the event, highlighting the opulence and magnificence of the Persian empire under Ahasuerus' reign. During these 180 days, Ahasuerus showcased the wealth, resources, and cultural achievements of his kingdom through various festivities, banquets, and displays. The king's aim was not only to entertain his guests but also to assert his authority and magnificence as the ruler of a vast and prosperous empire. This prolonged celebration laid the foundation for subsequent events in the biblical narrative, including the pivotal moment when Queen Vashti refuses to obey the king's command, leading to her dismissal from the throne.
6.
For how many days did the feast last?
Correct Answer
A. 7
Explanation
According to the Book of Esther, the feast described in the text lasted for a total of 7 days. This feast was held by King Ahasuerus (also known as Xerxes) in the city of Susa, and it was a lavish event with food, wine, and entertainment for the king's officials and servants.
7.
What was the Queen's name in chapter one?
Correct Answer
B. Vashti
Explanation
In Chapter One of the Book of Esther, the queen's name is Vashti. The chapter recounts a banquet hosted by King Ahasuerus, during which he commands Queen Vashti to appear before his guests to display her beauty. However, Queen Vashti refuses the king's command, leading to her removal as queen. This act sets the stage for Esther's eventual rise to become queen in Vashti's place.
8.
On what day was the king's heart merry with wine?
Correct Answer
C. 7th
Explanation
The answer is 7th because it is stated in the question that the king's heart was merry with wine on a specific day. Since the options provided are different days, we can conclude that the correct day is the one mentioned in the answer, which is the 7th.
9.
How many eunuchs served in the presence of King Ahasuerus at his feast in chapter 1?
Correct Answer
B. 7
Explanation
In chapter 1 of the book of Esther, it is mentioned that King Ahasuerus held a feast for all his officials and servants. It is not explicitly stated how many eunuchs served in his presence at the feast. Therefore, the explanation for the answer of 7 is not available.
10.
What made King Ahasuerus angry with Queen Vashti?
Correct Answer
A. She would not come when the king called
Explanation
King Ahasuerus became angry with Queen Vashti because she refused to come when he called her. This act of disobedience and disrespect towards the king's authority and power led to his anger.
11.
How many princes of Persia and Media were close to King Ahasuerus?
Correct Answer
B. 7
Explanation
In the book of Esther in the Bible, it is mentioned that there were seven princes of Persia and Media who were close to King Ahasuerus. These princes played an important role in the story, as they were summoned by the king to consult with him on important matters and decisions. Their presence and influence in the court of King Ahasuerus highlight their significance and power in the kingdom.
12.
Whose plan was it to punish Queen Vashti by removal of her royal status?
Correct Answer
B. Memucan
Explanation
Memucan's plan was to punish Queen Vashti by removing her royal status.
13.
What secret did Esther keep from the king?
Correct Answer
C. She was Jewish.
Explanation
Esther kept the secret that she was Jewish from the king. This is significant because during that time, being Jewish was often seen as a disadvantage and could lead to discrimination or persecution. By hiding her true identity, Esther was able to navigate the complex political landscape and eventually use her position to save her people from a plot to annihilate them.