כַּרְכַּס (kar.kas)
kar.kas
Carkas
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The proper noun kar.kas refers to a specific individual named in the Book of Esther, identified as one of the seven chief eunuchs serving King Ahasuerus. This Hebrew name appears only once in the entire biblical canon, located at Esther 1:10, where it lists the attendants who stood before the king.
The lexicon sources note that the name is likely of Persian origin and translates to "severe" or "stern." This etymology aligns with the character’s role in the narrative, as he is part of the royal court responsible for executing the king’s commands. The text presents him not as a central figure with personal agency, but as a member of the administrative apparatus surrounding the throne.
Because this word occurs solely in this single verse, it does not carry broader theological weight or repeated symbolic usage across Scripture. Its significance lies entirely in its historical context within the Persian court, providing detail about the hierarchy and staff present during the events involving Queen Vashti.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Carkas appears only once in Scripture, listed among the seven eunuchs serving King Ahasuerus in Esther 1:10. Its meaning likely points to severity or sternness, reflecting the disciplined nature of those who managed the royal household. While he is a minor figure with no recorded dialogue or personal actions, his inclusion reminds us that God’s providence works through every layer of human society.
Even in the bustling corridors of a foreign court, names are preserved for a reason. This detail highlights the historical reality of the Persian empire and shows how ordinary officials played their part in the unfolding story of Israel. It encourages readers to trust that God sees and records all things, no matter how small they may seem.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Carcas1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/כַרְכַּ֔ס1×
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 lists Carkas as one of the seven eunuchs standing before the king, establishing his role within the royal administrative structure.