Esther 2:4Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The thinkers of this age often attempt to replace ancient affections with newer ones, much like using one wedge to drive out another. This is similar to what the seven nobles of Persia did to King Ahashverosh, seeking to appease his desire for Queen Astin with the allure of other women. They attempt to remedy wrongdoing with further wrongdoing, addressing sinful behavior with more sin; however, we are called to vanquish vice through the embrace of virtue. As the Psalmist proclaims, "Turn away from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it" (Psalm 33:15).

When Judah was excluded from the royal banquet, representatives from various nations around the world were drawn into a community of royal privilege through the holy ministers of the Gospel. They were placed under the guidance of Hegai (Esther 2:3), which can be understood as 'hasty' or 'solemn.' This signifies that the care of noble women was assigned to the pastors and leaders of the Church, who hold the responsibility for safeguarding the souls of the faithful.