חַרְבוֹנָא (char.vo.na)
char.vo.na
Harbona
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
Harbona is a proper name appearing only twice in the Hebrew Bible, both within the book of Esther. The sources identify him as one of the seven eunuchs who served King Ahasuerus. His name translates to "ass-driver," a detail that grounds this royal courtier in a specific, humble occupational origin rather than noble lineage.
He first appears in Esther 1:10, summoned to present Queen Vashti before the king. Later, in Esther 7:9, he plays a crucial narrative role by pointing out the gallows Haman had prepared for Mordecai. This observation triggers Haman’s immediate downfall, demonstrating how a minor court official can influence the course of history.
The name’s meaning contrasts with his high status. While "ass-driver" suggests manual labor, Harbona serves in the inner sanctum of the Persian empire. His presence highlights the diverse backgrounds within the royal administration and underscores the providential details that drive the Esther narrative forward.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Harbona serves as a reminder that God often works through unexpected people in ordinary roles. His name means "ass-driver," suggesting a background far removed from royal power, yet he stands among the king’s inner circle. This detail shows us that our current position or past does not limit how we might be used for good.
In Esther 7:9, Harbona speaks up at a critical moment, pointing out the gallows Haman built for Mordecai. His simple observation helps turn the tide of history. We can take comfort knowing that our faithful presence and willingness to speak truth in difficult moments matter deeply to God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Harbona2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- חַרְבוֹנָ֜א1×
- חַ֠רְבוֹנָה1×
Key Verses
-
Esther 1:10
On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, and Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcass, the seven eunuchs who served in the presence of Ahasuerus the king,
This verse introduces Harbona as one of the seven eunuchs, establishing his presence in the royal court where key events unfold.
-
Esther 7:9
Then Harbonah, one of the eunuchs who were with the king, said, “Behold, the gallows fifty cubits high, which Haman has made for Mordecai, who spoke good for the king, is standing at Haman’s house.” The king said, “Hang him on it!”
Here Harbona identifies the gallows Haman prepared for Mordecai, a crucial detail that leads directly to Haman's downfall.