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בִּיתָן (bi.tan)

bi.tan

palace

H1055 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 3 verses

H:N-M

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
3 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
H:N-M

Word Overview

The Hebrew noun biṯān refers to a large, impressive residence, typically translated as "palace" or "mansion." Unlike a standard home, it denotes a structure of significant scale and status, often associated with royalty or high-ranking officials. In the biblical text, this word appears exclusively in the Book of Esther, highlighting its connection to the royal court.

Its usage is tightly bound to the narrative of Queen Esther and King Ahasuerus. The term describes the physical settings where pivotal political and personal dramas unfold, such as the king’s banquet halls or the queen’s private chambers. By specifying these grand locations, the text emphasizes the power dynamics and the precarious position of the Jewish characters within the Persian empire.

Although biṯān shares a root with the common word for house (bayith), it carries a distinct nuance of opulence and public function. Translators consistently render it as "palace" to distinguish it from ordinary dwellings, ensuring readers grasp the architectural and social weight of the scenes described in this historical book.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The Hebrew word biṯān points to a place of immense power and visibility. In the Book of Esther, it is not merely a building but the stage where life-and-death decisions are made. When characters enter this space, they step into a realm where human authority feels absolute, yet God’s providence remains hidden in the shadows.

For your daily life, this word reminds us that we often find ourselves in high-stakes environments—workplaces or communities where our standing matters. Like Esther, you may feel small against large institutions. The text shows that even within walls designed to intimidate, courage and wisdom can shift outcomes. God’s care extends into the most imposing structures of human power.

When anxiety rises about your position or safety, remember that no palace is beyond the reach of divine oversight. You are never alone in crowded rooms or critical moments. Trust that the same God who guided Esther through the royal court is present in your current challenges, offering peace and strength for whatever lies ahead.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • the/ palace2×
  • [the] palace of1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • הַ/בִּיתָ֜ן1×
  • הַ/בִּיתָ֑ן1×
  • בִּיתַ֖ן1×

Key Verses

  • Esther 1:5
    When these days were fulfilled, the king made a seven day feast for all the people who were present in Susa the palace, both great and small, in the court of the garden of the king’s palace.

    This verse establishes the palace as a public stage of royal display, setting the scene for the political tensions that drive the narrative.

  • Esther 7:7
    The king arose in his wrath from the banquet of wine and went into the palace garden. Haman stood up to make request for his life to Esther the queen, for he saw that there was evil determined against him by the king.

    Here the king’s movement from the banquet to the garden isolates Haman, showing how the palace’s layout becomes crucial to the turning point of the story.

  • Esther 7:8
    Then the king returned out of the palace garden into the place of the banquet of wine; and Haman had fallen on the couch where Esther was. Then the king said, “Will he even assault the queen in front of me in the house?” As the word went out of the king’s mouth, they covered Haman’s face.

    The sudden shift back into the banquet hall transforms a plea for mercy into an accusation of violence, highlighting the perilous nature of life within the royal residence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does biṯān mean in the Bible?

Biṯān is a Hebrew noun translated as 'palace' or 'mansion.' It appears only in Esther and refers to large, official royal residences rather than ordinary homes. The term highlights the scale and authority associated with the Persian king’s court.

Why is this word important in Esther?

It marks the physical locations where key events unfold, such as banquets and private confrontations. These settings emphasize the danger and visibility of Esther’s position, showing how personal faith intersects with political power.

How is biṯān different from a regular house?

While it shares a root with the common word for house (bayith), biṯān denotes a structure of significant status and public function. It implies opulence and administrative weight, distinguishing royal quarters from private family dwellings.

Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)

Esther 3 verses
Esther 1:5

When these days were fulfilled, the king made a seven day feast for all the people who were present in Susa the palace,…

Esther 7:7

The king arose in his wrath from the banquet of wine and went into the palace garden. Haman stood up to make request…

Esther 7:8

Then the king returned out of the palace garden into the place of the banquet of wine; and Haman had fallen on the…