In the Persian Empire, the royal harem was a place where young women were kept after being chosen to spend a night with the king. This verse outlines the procedure for these women: after their evening with King Xerxes, they would be moved to another section of the harem under the care of Shaashgaz, the eunuch in charge of the concubines. The women would not see the king again unless he called for them by name, indicating his favor. This system underscores the absolute power of the king and the lack of autonomy for the women involved.
The context of this verse is crucial in understanding the story of Esther, a Jewish woman who becomes queen and uses her position to save her people. Despite the constraints of the time, Esther's story is one of bravery and divine providence. It serves as a reminder of how faith and courage can lead to transformative outcomes, even in situations where individuals seem powerless. The verse also highlights the cultural norms of the era, providing insight into the historical setting of the Book of Esther.