Persons of the Bible: Letter X
The letter X represents one of the smallest collections of names in the entire biblical record, yet even here we find connections that illuminate Scripture’s world. Names like Xerxes—better known as Ahasuerus in the book of Esther—remind us that God’s story unfolds not only among His people but within the great empires of history. Other entries reflect the Greek and early Christian environment surrounding the New Testament era. Together, they help us appreciate how the Lord guided His people through real events, real cultures, and real historical movements that prepared the way for Jesus Christ.
Xanthicus
A Greek month used by ancient Jewish historians such as Josephus to date events involving identifiable people. Included for its role in personal chronological identification.
Scripture: Historical tradition (Josephus, Antiquities)
Xerxes
Xerxes is the Greek name for Ahasuerus, the Persian king in the book of Esther. While the Hebrew text uses “Ahasuerus,” ancient Greek and historical sources refer to him as Xerxes. His decisions, pride, and shifting moods formed the background for God’s preservation of the Jewish people through Esther.
Scripture: Esther 1–10 (variant name)
Xestēs (designation—personal context)
A Greek term meaning “measure” or “vessel,” occasionally used in contexts describing the actions or settings of specific individuals.
Scripture: Mark 7:4 (contextual)
Though brief, the letter X reminds us that no corner of biblical history sits outside God’s care. From Persian kings to early Christian households, every name—whether central or passing—sits within a world where the Lord is sovereign.
As we move to the letter Y next, we will continue tracing the names and lives that help us better understand the grand and beautiful story of Scripture, a story that always leads us closer to Jesus.
