תֶּ֫רֶשׁ (te.resh)
te.resh
Teresh
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Teresh appears in only two verses, both within the Book of Esther. It identifies one of the king’s eunuchs who conspired with another to assassinate Ahasuerus. The plot was uncovered by Mordecai, and the conspirators were executed (Esther 2:21; 7:9). The name itself is interpreted as meaning "strictness" or "severity," a fitting label for a court official involved in such a deadly scheme.
Though Teresh plays no role beyond this brief mention, his inclusion highlights the political instability of the Persian court. His presence underscores the danger surrounding the king and the pivotal role Mordecai played in protecting him. This event later becomes part of the royal record that Esther references to save her people (Esther 6:2). The name serves as a small but significant detail in the larger narrative of divine providence working through historical events.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Teresh appears only twice in Scripture, embedded in a story about court intrigue and hidden loyalty. In Esther 2:21, he is listed alongside Bigthan as one of two eunuchs who plotted against King Ahasuerus. Mordecai uncovered this treason and reported it to the king, saving the monarch’s life. This small act of courage was recorded in the royal chronicles, a detail that seemed insignificant at the time but later became crucial for the survival of the Jewish people.
When Esther stands before the king to plead for her nation, the record of Mordecai’s earlier service is brought to light (Esther 6:2). The name Teresh serves as a quiet reminder that God often works through ordinary moments and unexpected people. Even those who oppose His plans are part of a larger history where justice prevails. We can find comfort in knowing that no act of faithfulness goes unnoticed, and that divine providence weaves together seemingly unrelated events to bring about good.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Teresh2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וָ/תֶ֜רֶשׁ1×
- וָ/תֶ֗רֶשׁ1×
Key Verses
-
Esther 2:21
In those days, while Mordecai was sitting in the king’s gate, two of the king’s eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, who were doorkeepers, were angry, and sought to lay hands on the King Ahasuerus.
This verse introduces Teresh as a conspirator, establishing the immediate danger to the king and Mordecai's role in uncovering the plot.
-
Esther 6:2
It was found written that Mordecai had told of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king’s eunuchs, who were doorkeepers, who had tried to lay hands on the King Ahasuerus.
Here the name resurfaces in the royal records, showing how the earlier act of loyalty was preserved for a future moment of deliverance.