Bible Figure
Memucan
Biblical figure, advisor to Xerxes
Memucan was one of the seven Persian and Median officials closest to King Ahasuerus and the adviser who proposed the royal response to Vashti's refusal.
Biography
Esther 1 names Memucan among the seven princes who had access to the king. After Vashti refused Ahasuerus's command, Memucan argued that her action would encourage wives throughout the empire to despise their husbands. He advised issuing an irrevocable decree removing Vashti from her royal position and declaring that every man should rule his household. The king and princes accepted his proposal.
Biblical Significance
Memucan's counsel triggers the vacancy through which Esther later becomes queen. His speech also illustrates the exaggerated court politics and concern for royal authority that characterize Esther's opening chapter.