Definition: All the king’s servants, and the people of the king’s provinces, do know, that whosoever, whether man or woman, shall come unto the king into the inner court, who is not called, [there is] one law of his to put [him] to death, except such to whom the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live: but I have not been called to come in unto the king these thirty days.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse. It’s a really interesting and dramatic passage from the Book of Esther! Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: A Crisis is Brewing: The verse describes a tense situation in Persia (modern-day Iran) where King Darius is facing a serious problem – a rebellion led by Haman. A Secret Rule: Haman has issued a very strict rule: anyone who enters the royal inner court (a special, secure area) without being specifically called or given permission is to be killed. Let’s unpack the key parts: “All the king’s servants, and the people of the king’s provinces…” : This tells us this isn't just a single person; it's a large group – all the royal officials, advisors, and people living under the King’s rule. “…do know, that whosoever…” : This means everyone knows this rule. It’s a universal law. “Whether man or woman” : This is crucial – it applies to both men and women. "...comes unto the king into the inner court..." : This is where the action happens - someone gets permission to enter the King's private space. "...who is not called, [there] one law of his to put him to death…” : This is the heart of the verse. It’s a specific and absolute rule – anyone who enters without being called is immediately killed. "...except such to whom the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live:” This is where it gets really powerful. The King has given Esther a special, symbolic object - a golden sceptre. Only he can use this sceptre to kill someone without being accused of wrongdoing. "...but I have not been called to come in unto the king these thirty days.” : Esther is telling us she’s not going into the King's court. She has been warned by God to wait. In simpler terms: Haman wants to kill someone, and he’s given a very strict rule – anyone who enters the royal court without permission will be killed. However, Esther is refusing to participate. The Significance & Why it Matters: This passage is incredibly important because it highlights: Divine Protection: Esther is acting as a protector of her people, and God is intervening in this situation. Leadership & Obedience: Esther’s refusal to follow the rule demonstrates strong leadership and obedience to divine authority. God's Sovereignty: It shows that God is in control of events, even when things seem chaotic. Overall, this verse is a story about a moment of courage, faith, and God’s protection against evil. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context (where did this passage come from)? Talk about the meaning behind Esther's actions?