These events happened in the days of King Xerxes, who reigned over 127 provinces stretching from India to Ethiopia. At that time, Xerxes ruled from his royal throne at the fortress of Susa. In the third year of his reign, he gave a banquet for all of his nobles and officials. He invited all the military officers of Persia and Media, as well as the princes and nobles of the provinces. The celebration lasted 180 days-a tremendous display of the opulent wealth of his empire and the pomp and splendor of his majesty. (vv. 1-4, NLT)
At the same time, Queen Vashti gave a banquet for the women in the royal palace of King Xerxes. (v. 9), NLT)