Hegai

Hegai (or Hege, possibly meaning meditation; groaning) was the eunuch in charge of the harem of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia. When the young women were gathered for the king's selection of a new queen after the deposition of Vashti, Esther was placed under Hegai's custody. The text notes that Esther "obtained kindness of him," and Hegai quickly provided her with cosmetics, her appointed portions of food, seven chosen maidens, and the best place in the harem (Esth. 2:8–9). His favor toward Esther foreshadows her selection as queen. Hegai's advice guided Esther on what to take when she came before the king (Esth. 2:15), and the king chose her above all the other women.