◄ Esther 7 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Esther Pleads for Her People 1So the king and Haman went to dine with Esther the queen, 2and as they drank their wine on that second day, the king asked once more, “Queen Esther, what is your petition? It will be given to you. What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be fulfilled.” 3Queen Esther replied, “If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, grant me my life as my petition, and the lives of my people as my request. 4For my people and I have been sold out to destruction, death, and annihilation. If we had merely been sold as menservants and maidservants, I would have remained silent, because no such distress would justify burdening the king.” 5Then King Xerxes spoke up and asked Queen Esther, “Who is this, and where is the one who would devisea such a scheme?” 6Esther replied, “The adversary and enemy is this wicked man—Haman!” And Haman stood in terror before the king and queen. The Hanging of Haman 7In his fury, the king arose from drinking his wine and went to the palace garden, while Haman stayed behind to beg Queen Esther for his life, for he realized that the king was planning a terrible fate for him. 8Just as the king returned from the palace garden to the banquet hall, Haman was falling on the couch where Esther was reclining. The king exclaimed, “Would he actually assault the queen while I am in the palace?” As soon as the words had left the king’s mouth, they covered Haman’s face. 9Then Harbonah, one of the eunuchs attending the king, said: “There is a gallows fifty cubits highb at Haman’s house. He had it built for Mordecai, who gave the report that saved the king.” “Hang him on it!” declared the king. 10So they hanged Haman on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai. Then the fury of the king subsided. Footnotes: 5 a Hebrew whose heart has filled him to do 9 b 50 cubits is approximately 75 feet or 22.9 meters high. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Esther 7 Summary Esther Pleads for Her People Verses 1–2a – Second Banquet of Wine The king and Haman arrive at Esther’s private banquet. As they drink wine, King Xerxes repeats his promise of up to half the kingdom, signaling royal favor and pressing Esther for her long-delayed request. Verses 2b-4 – Esther Reveals Her Plea Esther finally speaks: “If I have found favor with you… spare my life, and spare my people.” She explains that her people have been “sold to destruction, slaughter, and annihilation.” She would have remained silent if it were merely slavery, but genocide compels her to speak. Verses 5–6 – Haman Unmasked The king demands, “Who is he, and where is the man who has dared to do this?” Esther points directly: “The adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman!” Haman is stunned, and the king’s wrath ignites. Verses 7–8 – Desperate Haman, Furious King Xerxes storms into the palace garden. Haman stays behind begging Esther for his life; when the king returns, Haman has fallen on Esther’s couch. Xerxes interprets the scene as an assault, intensifying his rage. Verses 9–10 – Haman Executed on His Own Gallows Harbona, one of the eunuchs, reports the seventy-five-foot pole Haman prepared for Mordecai. Xerxes orders, “Impale him on it!” Haman is executed on the very structure meant for the man he hated, and the king’s fury subsides. Esther 7 showcases a pivotal moment in the account of Esther and the fate of the Jewish people. It’s a dramatic episode where the courage of Queen Esther is put to the ultimate test as she reveals the malevolent plan of Haman, the King's right-hand man. This chapter highlights themes of courage, justice, and faith, delivering a compelling narrative about the power of standing up for one's people against oppression. Historical Setting and Royal Protocol • Persian royals often held private “banquets of wine” after the main meal (Esther 7:1). Archaeological finds at Susa and Persepolis depict reclining nobles with wine cups, matching the text. • A request made during such a banquet carried weight; the king’s thrice-repeated offer (5:3; 7:2) echoes a standard formula of royal generosity. • The legal code of the Medes and Persians (1:19; Daniel 6:8) made prior edicts irrevocable, explaining Esther’s urgency—once genocidal orders went out (3:13), only a counter-edict could save the Jews. Persian “Gallows”: Impaling Poles and Archaeological Clues • The Hebrew word translated “gallows” literally means a tree or pole. Reliefs from Persepolis show rebels impaled on tall stakes, matching the description of a seventy-five-foot structure. • Greek historian Herodotus records that Darius impaled 3,000 Babylonians; thus the method was well known. • Excavations at Susa uncovered large post-holes near administrative buildings, possibly for such punishments. Character Insights: Esther • Esther waits until circumstances align: two banquets, the king’s pleasure, and Haman’s presence. Her timing reflects Ecclesiastes 3:7, “a time to be silent and a time to speak.” • She identifies herself with her people (“my life… my people”), risking everything. Compare Moses in Exodus 32:32 and Paul in Romans 9:3, who also identified with their endangered brethren. • Esther frames her plea respectfully, acknowledging the king’s authority while exposing the hidden cost of Haman’s plot—loss of subjects and tribute (Esther 7:4). Character Insights: Haman • Haman’s pride (5:11-13) blinds him. Proverbs 16:18: “Pride goes before destruction.” • His manipulation of royal power (3:8-9) now reverses on him. Psalm 7:15-16: “He has dug a pit… but he himself will fall into the hole he made.” • Begging for mercy at Esther’s couch places him in a compromising posture; Persian custom forbade men from being alone with royal women, amplifying the king’s suspicion. God’s Invisible Hand • God is never named in Esther, yet the timing is unmistakable: the king’s insomnia (6:1), the elevation of Mordecai (6:10-11), and Haman’s misstep here. Romans 8:28 echoes the pattern: “God works all things together for good for those who love Him.” • Esther 7 is the fulcrum where impending doom flips to deliverance, showcasing divine oversight without overt miracles. Reversal and Retribution in the Bible • Esther 7 mirrors the broader biblical motif of reversal: Joseph from prison to palace (Genesis 41), Daniel from lion’s den to honor (Daniel 6), Jesus from cross to resurrection (Philippians 2:8-11). • Retribution: Proverbs 26:27—“He who digs a pit will fall into it.” Haman’s gallows becomes the illustration. • Psalm 37:12-15 describes the wicked’s sword entering their own hearts; Esther 7 dramatizes that truth. Foreshadowing of the Greater Deliverer • Esther willingly intercedes at the risk of her life, pointing forward to Christ, who laid down His life to save His people (John 10:11). • The enemy’s weapon turned back on himself parallels Colossians 2:15, where the cross—meant to defeat Jesus—becomes the means by which He “disarmed the powers and authorities.” Practical Takeaways 1. Speak when God opens the door. Silence had its season; courage had its moment. 2. Pride invites swift downfall; humility preserves. 3. God’s people may be hidden in hostile settings, yet He can reverse any decree. 4. Justice may appear delayed but will arrive—often poetically. 5. Personal risk for the good of others reflects the heart of true leadership. Key Scripture Echoes • Genesis 50:20—intended evil turned to good. • Isaiah 54:17—“No weapon forged against you shall prosper.” • Psalm 124—“If the LORD had not been on our side… we would have been swallowed alive.” • Revelation 12:10-11—accuser cast down, saints overcome “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” Esther 7 shines as the dramatic turning point where a queen’s brave words, a king’s swift justice, and God’s unseen guidance converge to preserve a people and prepare the stage for greater deliverance still to come. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 21:1 The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases. This verse underscores God's sovereignty over the hearts of rulers, as seen in King Xerxes' response to Esther. Romans 8:28 And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. This connects to the overarching theme of God's providence in Esther's story. Psalm 37:12-13 The wicked scheme against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them, but the Lord laughs, seeing that their day is coming. This passage parallels Haman's fate and God's ultimate justice. Teaching Points Divine Timing and Courage Esther's approach to King Xerxes is a testament to her bravery and the divine timing orchestrated by God. Esther 7:3-4 shows her courage as she reveals her identity and pleads for her people: If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, grant me my life as my petition and my people as my request. The Unveiling of Evil Esther exposes Haman's plot, highlighting the theme of hidden evil being brought to light. In Esther 7:6, she identifies Haman as the adversary: The adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman. Justice Executed The chapter concludes with Haman's downfall, illustrating the biblical principle that those who plot evil will ultimately face justice. Esther 7:10 states, So they hanged Haman on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai. Practical Applications Stand for Righteousness Like Esther, we are called to stand for what is right, even when it requires great personal risk. Trust in God's Timing We should trust that God’s timing is perfect, even when we cannot see the full picture. Expose Injustice We are encouraged to bring hidden injustices to light, trusting that God will use our actions for His purposes. People 1. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes) The Persian king who is hosting the banquet. In the Hebrew text, his name is אֲחַשְׁוֵרוֹשׁ (Achashverosh). He is a central figure in the Book of Esther, known for his authority and decision-making power. 2. Queen Esther The Jewish queen of Persia, who bravely approaches the king to plead for the lives of her people. Her Hebrew name is אֶסְתֵּר (Esther), and she is known for her courage and wisdom. 3. Haman The antagonist of the story, who is the king's advisor and has plotted to destroy the Jews. His name in Hebrew is הָמָן (Haman), and he is depicted as prideful and vengeful. Places 1. The Banquet of Wine This is the setting for the events of Esther 7. The chapter describes a banquet hosted by Queen Esther for King Xerxes and Haman. In the Hebrew text, the term used for "banquet" is "מִשְׁתֶּה" (mishteh), which refers to a feast or a drinking party. This setting is significant as it is where Esther reveals her Jewish identity and accuses Haman of plotting against her people, leading to Haman's downfall. The intimate and private nature of the banquet allows Esther to speak directly to the king, highlighting the strategic importance of the setting in the narrative. Events 1. The Banquet of Esther Esther 7 begins with Esther hosting a banquet for King Xerxes and Haman. This is the second banquet she has prepared, as mentioned in Esther 7:1, "So the king and Haman went to dine with Queen Esther." 2. The King's Inquiry During the banquet, the king asks Esther what her petition is, promising to grant it up to half the kingdom. Esther 7:2 states, "And as they drank their wine on the second day, the king asked again, 'Queen Esther, what is your petition? It will be given to you. What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be fulfilled.'" 3. Esther's Plea for Her People Esther reveals her request to the king, asking for her life and the lives of her people to be spared. In Esther 7:3, she says, "If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, grant me my life—this is my petition. And spare my people—this is my request." 4. Revelation of the Plot Esther exposes Haman's plot to annihilate the Jews, identifying herself as one of the people targeted. Esther 7:4 explains, "For my people and I have been sold to destruction, death, and annihilation. If we had merely been sold as male and female slaves, I would have kept silent, for such distress would not be worth disturbing the king." 5. The King's Anger King Xerxes, upon hearing Esther's plea, demands to know who is responsible for this plot. Esther 7:5 records, "King Xerxes asked Queen Esther, 'Who is he, and where is the man who has dared to do this?'" 6. Haman's Exposure Esther identifies Haman as the adversary and enemy. Esther 7:6 states, "Esther replied, 'The adversary and enemy is this vile Haman.' Then Haman was terrified before the king and queen." 7. The King's Wrath and Haman's Plea The king, in his anger, leaves the banquet to the palace garden, while Haman stays behind to beg Esther for his life. Esther 7:7 describes, "The king arose in his anger and left his wine and went to the palace garden. But Haman, realizing that the king had determined his doom, stayed behind to beg Queen Esther for his life." 8. Haman's Downfall Upon returning, the king finds Haman falling on the couch where Esther is reclining, which further enrages him. Esther 7:8 notes, "Just as the king returned from the palace garden to the banquet hall, Haman was falling on the couch where Esther was reclining. 'Will he even molest the queen while she is with me in the house?' the king exclaimed. As soon as the word left the king’s mouth, they covered Haman’s face." 9. Haman's Execution Harbona, one of the eunuchs, informs the king about the gallows Haman had prepared for Mordecai. The king orders Haman to be hanged on it. Esther 7:9-10 concludes, "Then Harbona, one of the eunuchs attending the king, said, 'Look, the gallows 50 cubits high stands by Haman’s house. He had it made for Mordecai, who spoke up to help the king.' The king said, 'Hang him on it!' So they hanged Haman on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai. Then the king’s fury subsided." Lessons from Esther 7 1. Divine Timing is Perfect In Esther 7, we see the culmination of events that have been divinely orchestrated. Esther's courage to approach the king at just the right moment is a reminder that God's timing is impeccable. As Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." Trust in His timing, for He knows the perfect moment to act. 2. Courage in the Face of Fear Esther's bravery in revealing her identity and pleading for her people is a testament to the power of courage. Her actions remind us of Joshua 1:9: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." When we stand firm in faith, God stands with us. 3. The Power of Advocacy Esther's intercession for her people highlights the importance of speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves. Proverbs 31:8-9 encourages us: "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy." Advocacy is a powerful tool in the hands of the righteous. 4. The Downfall of Pride Haman's downfall is a classic example of pride leading to destruction. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." Let this be a reminder to walk humbly with God, recognizing that all we have is by His grace. 5. The Importance of Wisdom Esther's strategic approach to revealing Haman's plot demonstrates the value of wisdom. James 1:5 assures us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." Seek wisdom in all your endeavors, and God will guide your steps. 6. Justice Prevails The story of Esther 7 shows that justice, though sometimes delayed, will ultimately prevail. Psalm 37:28 declares, "For the LORD loves justice and will not forsake His saints. They are preserved forever, but the descendants of the wicked will be cut off." Trust in God's justice, for He is a righteous judge. 7. The Role of Providence God's unseen hand is evident throughout the book of Esther, orchestrating events for His purposes. Romans 8:28 reminds us, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." Even when we cannot see it, God is working behind the scenes. 8. The Impact of Influence Esther's influence as queen was pivotal in saving her people. This reminds us of the impact we can have in our own spheres of influence. Matthew 5:16 encourages, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Use your influence for God's glory. 9. The Value of Community Esther's story underscores the importance of community and support. Mordecai's guidance and the fasting of the Jewish people were crucial to the success of Esther's mission. Hebrews 10:24-25 advises, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another." Community strengthens us for the challenges we face. 10. Faith in Action Esther's faith was not passive; it was active and bold. James 2:17 states, "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." Let Esther's example inspire you to put your faith into action, trusting that God will use your efforts for His purposes. Topics 1. The Banquet of Esther Esther 7 begins with Esther hosting a banquet for King Xerxes and Haman. This setting is crucial as it provides Esther the opportunity to present her petition to the king. The Hebrew word for banquet, "מִשְׁתֶּה" (mishteh), indicates a feast or a drinking party, highlighting the significance of hospitality and celebration in Persian culture. 2. Esther's Plea for Her People Esther courageously reveals her Jewish identity and pleads for the lives of her people. In Esther 7:3, she says, "If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request." The Hebrew root for "favor" is "חֵן" (chen), emphasizing grace and acceptance. 3. The Accusation Against Haman Esther accuses Haman of plotting to destroy her people. In Esther 7:6, she identifies Haman as "the adversary and enemy." The Hebrew word for adversary, "צָר" (tsar), conveys the idea of an oppressor or foe, underscoring Haman's role as the antagonist in the narrative. 4. Haman's Downfall Haman's reaction to Esther's accusation is one of terror. Esther 7:6 states, "Haman stood terrified before the king and queen." The Hebrew word for terrified, "בָּעַת" (ba'at), suggests a sudden fear or panic, illustrating Haman's realization of his impending doom. 5. The King's Wrath King Xerxes' anger is kindled against Haman. In Esther 7:7, the king rises in his wrath and leaves the banquet. The Hebrew word for wrath, "חֵמָה" (chemah), indicates a burning anger, reflecting the king's intense emotional response to Esther's revelation. 6. Haman's Plea for Mercy Haman begs Esther for his life, recognizing that the king has already decided his fate. Esther 7:7 describes Haman as "falling on the couch where Esther was reclining." The Hebrew verb "נָפַל" (naphal) means to fall or prostrate oneself, symbolizing Haman's desperation and submission. 7. The King's Misinterpretation King Xerxes returns to find Haman pleading with Esther and misinterprets the scene as an assault. In Esther 7:8, the king exclaims, "Will he even assault the queen while I am in the house?" The Hebrew word for assault, "כָּבַשׁ" (kabash), can mean to subdue or violate, highlighting the king's protective instincts toward Esther. 8. Haman's Execution Haman is executed on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai. Esther 7:10 concludes, "So they hanged Haman on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai." The Hebrew term for gallows, "עֵץ" (etz), literally means tree or wood, indicating the method of execution and the poetic justice served. Themes 1. Divine Providence and Timing Esther 7 highlights the theme of divine providence, where God's timing is crucial. Esther's request to King Xerxes comes at the perfect moment, illustrating how God orchestrates events for His purposes. The Hebrew root for "time" (עֵת, 'et) underscores the significance of timing in God's plan. 2. Courage and Advocacy Esther demonstrates courage by advocating for her people. In Esther 7:3, she pleads, "If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request." Her bravery is a testament to standing up for justice and truth. 3. Reversal of Fortunes The chapter illustrates a dramatic reversal of fortunes, a common biblical theme. Haman, who plotted against the Jews, faces the consequences of his actions. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew concept of "measure for measure" (מִדָּה כְּנֶגֶד מִדָּה, middah k'neged middah). 4. Justice and Retribution Justice is served as Haman is punished for his wickedness. Esther 7:10 states, "So they hanged Haman on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai." This reflects the biblical principle that evil deeds ultimately lead to one's downfall. 5. The Power of Influence Esther's influence over King Xerxes is evident as she sways his decision. Her ability to impact the king's judgment highlights the power of influence and persuasion, especially when aligned with righteousness and truth. 6. Identity and Solidarity Esther's identification with her people is crucial. By revealing her Jewish identity, she aligns herself with their fate, demonstrating solidarity and the importance of standing with one's community in times of crisis. Prayer Points Pray for Courage Ask God to grant us the courage to stand for truth and righteousness in our own lives. Seek Divine Guidance Pray for wisdom to discern God’s timing and direction in challenging situations. Intercede for Justice Pray for those who are oppressed and for the exposure of injustice, trusting in God’s deliverance and justice. As we study Esther 7, may we be inspired by Esther's bravery and God's faithfulness, and may we be emboldened to act justly and trust in His perfect plan. Answering Tough Questions 1. Esther 7:4 – How credible is it that a royal decree ordering genocide could be issued and then so quickly reversed without any historical records corroborating it? 2. Esther 7:5–6 – Is there archaeological or extra-biblical evidence to confirm the existence and high position of Haman in the Persian Empire? 3. Esther 7:7 – Why would King Ahasuerus suddenly abandon the feast in anger without prior indications of Haman’s treachery in earlier records of Persian court life? 4. Esther 7:8 – How plausible is it, historically and culturally, that Haman would be instantly condemned to death merely from being seen near the queen’s couch? 5. Esther 7 – Why does this chapter, like the rest of the book, omit any direct mention of God, and how does that omission fit with the broader biblical narrative? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Esther demonstrate courage in this chapter? 2. What can we learn from the sudden reversal of Haman's fortune? 3. How does this chapter highlight the theme of justice? 4. How does King Xerxes react to Esther's revelation? What does this tell us about his character? 5. What is the significance of Esther revealing her Jewish identity at this point in the narrative? 6. How can the act of standing up against injustice, as Esther did, be applied to modern-day situations? 7. What lessons can be derived from the way Haman reacted when faced with his downfall? 8. How did Haman's own actions contribute to his downfall? 9. How does this chapter depict the concept of poetic justice? 10. How might Esther’s courage inspire you to confront injustices in your own life? 11. What role does faith play in Esther's actions? 12. How can Esther's courage be modeled in today's society where standing against oppression is needed? 13. How do you think Esther felt during her banquet knowing she was about to reveal her secret? 14. If you were in Esther's position, how would you have approached the situation? 15. Can you think of a time when you were forced to reveal a difficult truth? How does Esther’s story influence your perspective on such situations? 16. How does Esther 7 underscore the importance of speaking out even when it's difficult? 17. How does the downfall of Haman serve as a cautionary tale in modern times? 18. How can you apply the themes of courage, justice, and faith in your personal or professional life? 19. How does the narrative of Esther 7 inspire you to have faith in the ultimate triumph of good over evil? 20. What steps can you take to be courageous like Esther when facing a challenging situation that requires standing up for justice? 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