Bible Figure
Vashti
character in the Book of Esther; queen of Persia (Book of Esther)
Vashti was the Persian queen who refused King Ahasuerus's command to appear before his banquet guests and was consequently removed from her royal position.
Biography
Esther 1 describes Vashti holding a banquet for the women while Ahasuerus entertained officials and nobles. On the seventh day the king ordered her to appear wearing her royal crown so the guests could see her beauty. Vashti refused. After consultation with his advisers, the king issued a decree removing her as queen, creating the vacancy that eventually led to Esther's selection.
Biblical Significance
Vashti's refusal initiates the chain of events through which Esther becomes queen. Scripture does not state Vashti's motive, so later explanations for why she refused should not be presented as biblical fact.