1 These events took place during the days of Ahasuerus,[a][b]who ruled 127 provinces[c] from India[d] to Cush.
2
In those days King Ahasuerus reigned from his royal throne in the fortress at Susa.[e]
3
He held a feast in the third year of his reign for all his officials and staff, the army of Persia and Media, the nobles,[f] and the officials from the provinces.
4
He displayed the glorious wealth of his kingdom and the magnificent splendor of his greatness for a total of 180 days.
5
At the end of this time, the king held a week-long banquet in the garden courtyard of the royal palace for all the people, from the greatest to the least, who were present in the fortress of Susa.
6
White and violet linen hangings were fastened with fine white and purple linen cords to silver rods on marble[g] columns. Gold and silver couches [were arranged] on a mosaic pavement of red feldspar,[h] marble,[i] mother-of-pearl, and precious stones.