Esther 2:2 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

Then said the king's servants that ministered unto him, Let there be fair young virgins sought for the king: Let there be fair young virgins sought for the king - This was the usual way in which the harem or seraglio was furnished: the finest women in the land, whether of high or low birth, were sought out, and brought to the harem. They all became the king's concubines: but one was raised, as chief wife or sultana, to the throne; and her issue was specially entitled to inherit.