Bible Dictionary
Bigthan
Bigthan was a eunuch who guarded the king’s palace door. He conspired with Teresh against Ahasuerus, but the plot was discovered through Mordecai.
Definition
Bigthan was a eunuch or chamberlain who kept the door of King Ahasuerus’s court. With Teresh, he conspired against the king’s life, but Mordecai discovered the plot.
Biblical Usage
The conspiracy of Bigthan and Teresh was recorded in the royal chronicles after Mordecai reported it. The conspirators were later hanged, and the record became important in the events of Esther.
Historical Background
Bigthan served as a palace guard or doorkeeper in the court of Ahasuerus. His position gave him access to the royal household and opportunity to plot against the king.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
One of the eunuchs who “kept the door” in the court of Ahasuerus. With Teresh he conspired against the king’s life. Mordecai detected the conspiracy, and the culprits were hanged (Esther 2:21-23; 6:1-3).