Definition: And when the king’s decree which he shall make shall be published throughout all his empire, (for it is great,) all the wives shall give to their husbands honour, both to great and small.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Esther 1:20. It’s a really important part of the story about protecting Jewish people during a time of great danger. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that when the king makes a decree – like a rule or law – that affects everyone within his empire (which includes all the cities and regions under his control), all the wives are expected to show respect and give their husbands priority. Let’s unpack it further: “And when the king’s decree which he shall make shall be published throughout all his empire…” – This means that the king is officially announcing a new law or rule. It’s like a public announcement of something important. It’s spread out to everyone in his kingdom. “…for it is great” - This emphasizes the significance of this decree. It's not just a small thing; it’s a big deal that affects many people and areas. “all the wives shall give to their husbands honour, both to great and small.” – This is the key part! It means that every wife – regardless of her status or position – has a responsibility to show respect and deference to her husband. It's not just about being polite; it’s about acknowledging his authority and importance in their lives. “Great and small” refers to different levels of respect - from a simple thank you to a significant display of loyalty. In short, the verse is telling us that during times of crisis, especially when a king makes a big announcement with potential consequences for everyone, it's crucial for wives to show their respect and obedience to their husbands. Why is this important? This story shows a powerful message about loyalty, obedience, and respecting authority. It highlights the importance of supporting your husband – even when things are difficult. It’s a reminder that even small acts of respect can have a big impact in times of challenge. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Esther? Discuss the context of this story more deeply (like why it’s important in Jewish history)?