Queen Vashti is introduced in the opening chapter of the book of Esther. She was the wife of King Ahasuerus (commonly identified as Xerxes I of Persia), who reigned over a vast empire from India to Ethiopia. During a great feast held in the third year of his reign, Ahasuerus displayed the riches of his kingdom for 180 days, followed by a seven-day feast for all the people in Shushan (Esther 1:1–5).
On the seventh day, the king, “when his heart was merry with wine,” commanded that Vashti be brought before him wearing her royal crown, to show her beauty to the people and officials (Esther 1:10–11). However, Vashti refused to come at the king’s command, which greatly enraged him.
The king consulted his wise men about what should be done according to law. One advisor, Memucan, argued that Vashti’s disobedience would cause widespread disrespect among women throughout the empire. He recommended that Vashti be removed from her position and replaced by someone better than she (Esther 1:16–20). The proposal pleased the king, and a royal decree was issued stating that Vashti would no longer come before the king, and her royal position would be given to another.
Vashti’s refusal to appear, though not explained in detail, is interpreted by many as an act of dignity or resistance against being displayed publicly. The text does not mention her again, and her removal sets the stage for the introduction of Esther, who would later become queen and be used by God to deliver the Jewish people.
Queen Vashti’s account is brief but significant. Her removal illustrates the absolute authority of Persian kings and the cultural norms of the time, while also showing how God used even political events to accomplish His providential plan. Her exit opened the way for Esther, through whom God would preserve His covenant people.
