Was Esther the mother of King Cyrus?
Clarify
•
Share
•
Report
•
Asked September 25 2013
•
anne smith
Supporter
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Wayne Myhre
Supporter
I am an author of Biblical history, and have studied the arguments for Esther. A case can be made for a number of Persian monarchs, but in the end, I think it wise to go with the LXX (Septuagint) here.The seventy translators of the Septuagint would have been in a position, writing just after that period of history, to know who Esther’s king was. They not only wrote from Alexandria, next to the greatest library of ancient history, but they wrote just after the period in discussion, the Persian Period. Throughout the book of Esther they name him, Artaxerxes, referring to Artaxerxes the great, Longimanus. Though scholars in the past have also identified this Artaxerxes with Longimanus, some recently have questioned that they were referring to Longimanus; but it is well known that he was the first to use this title as a throne name. If they wanted to refer to another Persian monarch, such as Darius, who is so named in 1 Esdras, it is likely they would have written “Darius.”
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible