Women held a low status in Persian society. In spite of this, Vashti dared to disobey the king’s command. She refused to be lusted after by a crowd of drunken men.
Who knew what other humiliations would be waiting for Vashti, had she obeyed? She had acted with honour. But Ahasuerus’ reaction was that of fierce anger.
12 But Queen Vashti refused to come at the king’s command delivered by the eunuchs. At this the king became enraged, and his anger burned within him.