Esther 6:10

"Hurry," said the king to Haman, "and do just as you proposed. Take the robe and the horse to Mordecai the Jew, who is sitting at the king's gate. Do not neglect anything that you have suggested."

Study Bible

Go at once
This phrase indicates urgency and immediacy. In the Hebrew text, the word used here conveys a sense of haste and determination. Historically, this reflects the king's authority and the expectation that his commands be executed without delay. The urgency also underscores the dramatic reversal of fortune that is about to unfold, a common theme in the Book of Esther where divine providence operates swiftly and decisively.

said the king to Haman
The king, Ahasuerus, is the central authority figure in the narrative. His words carry the weight of law and decree. Haman, the antagonist, is ironically the one receiving the command to honor Mordecai, whom he despises. This highlights the theme of irony and reversal, where God’s providence turns the plans of the wicked against themselves. The historical context of Persian court life, where the king's word was absolute, adds to the dramatic tension of the scene.

Do not neglect anything
This phrase emphasizes completeness and thoroughness. The Hebrew root suggests a command to fulfill the task in its entirety, leaving nothing undone. This reflects the king's desire for the honor to be fully realized, and it also foreshadows the complete reversal of Haman's fortunes. In a broader scriptural context, it reminds believers of the importance of obedience and attention to detail in fulfilling God's commands.

you have recommended
The irony here is profound. Haman had recommended these honors for himself, yet they are to be bestowed upon Mordecai. The Hebrew text underscores the idea of counsel or advice, which in this case, backfires on Haman. This serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that pride precedes a fall (Proverbs 16:18) and that God can turn the counsel of the wicked to accomplish His purposes.

Take the robe and the horse
The robe and horse are symbols of royal honor and favor. In ancient Persian culture, these items were associated with the king and were used to publicly display the king's favor towards an individual. The historical context of Persian customs enriches the understanding of how significant this honor was. Scripturally, it points to the theme of God exalting the humble and humbling the proud (James 4:10).

as you have suggested
This reiteration of Haman's own suggestion adds to the irony and highlights the theme of poetic justice. The Hebrew text suggests a plan or proposal, which in this case, is turned on its head. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to use the plans of the wicked for the good of His people (Genesis 50:20).

and do just as you have proposed
The king's command is to follow through exactly as Haman had proposed, which underscores the completeness of the reversal. The Hebrew conveys a sense of exactness and precision. This phrase serves as a powerful reminder of God's meticulous providence and His ability to bring about justice in His perfect timing. It also encourages believers to trust in God's plans, even when circumstances seem dire.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who ruled over 127 provinces from India to Cush. He is a central figure in the Book of Esther, known for his opulent lifestyle and decisive, sometimes impulsive, actions.

2. Haman
The antagonist in the Book of Esther, a high-ranking official in the Persian Empire who plotted to destroy the Jews. His pride and hatred for Mordecai lead to his downfall.

3. Mordecai
A Jew living in Susa, the capital of the Persian Empire, and the cousin and guardian of Esther. He is known for his loyalty to the king and his refusal to bow to Haman, which sets the stage for the events in Esther 6.

4. Susa
The capital city of the Persian Empire, where the events of the Book of Esther take place. It is a significant location for the unfolding of God's providence in the account.

5. The King’s Gate
A place of official business and judgment in ancient cities. Mordecai’s presence here indicates his role in the administration of the empire.

Teaching Points

Divine Reversal
God's providence can turn situations around in ways we cannot foresee. Just as Mordecai was honored instead of Haman, God can exalt the humble and bring down the proud.

Pride and Humility
Haman's account is a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride. Believers are encouraged to cultivate humility, trusting that God will honor them in due time.

God’s Sovereignty
The events in Esther 6 remind us that God is in control, even when His presence is not overtly mentioned. He orchestrates events for His purposes and the good of His people.

Faithfulness in Position
Mordecai’s consistent presence at the king’s gate shows the importance of being faithful in our roles, trusting that God sees and rewards our faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Mordecai and Haman illustrate the biblical principle that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble? (Consider James 4:6)

2. In what ways can we see God’s providence at work in our own lives, even when His presence is not immediately obvious?

3. How can Mordecai’s example of faithfulness in his position inspire us to be diligent in our own responsibilities?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to guard against pride in our lives, as seen in Haman’s downfall?

5. How does the theme of divine reversal in Esther 6 encourage us to trust in God’s timing and justice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 50:20
The account of Joseph, where God turns what was meant for evil into good, parallels the reversal of fortunes seen in Esther 6.

Proverbs 16:18
This verse about pride leading to destruction is exemplified in Haman's account.

Psalm 75:7
The theme of God being the judge who brings one down and exalts another is evident in the reversal of Haman and Mordecai's situations.