Translations
Modern
“What is it, Queen Esther?” the king inquired. “What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given to you.”
Traditional
Then said the king unto her, What wilt thou, queen Esther? and what is thy request? it shall be even given thee to the half of the kingdom.
Literal
And the king said to her, “What is it to you, Esther the queen? And what is your request? As much as half of the kingdom, and it shall be given to you.”
Latin
Dixitque ad eam rex: Quid vis, Esther regina? quæ est petitio tua? etiam si dimidiam partem regni petieris, dabitur tibi.
Original
Hebrew
English
“What is it, Queen Esther?” the king inquired. “What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given to you.”
Notes
Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given to you: This common saying meant the king would be generous with her request. The king wanted nothing to stop Esther from telling the whole truth.
Theme notes and profiles
People
Esther: Jewish queen of Persia; saved her people from genocide