◄ Esther 5 ►
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Esther Approaches the King 1On the third day, Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace across from the king’s quarters. The king was sitting on his royal throne in the royal courtroom, facing the entrance. 2As soon as the king saw Queen Esther standing in the court, she found favor in his sight. The king extended the gold scepter in his hand toward Esther, and she approached and touched the tip of the scepter. 3“What is it, Queen Esther?” the king inquired. “What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given to you.” 4“If it pleases the king,” Esther replied, “may the king and Haman come today to the banquet I have prepared for the king.” 5“Hurry,” commanded the king, “and bring Haman, so we can do as Esther has requested.” So the king and Haman went to the banquet that Esther had prepared. 6And as they drank their wine, the king said to 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.” 7Esther replied, “This is my petition and my request: 8If I have found favor in the sight of the king, and if it pleases the king to grant my petition and fulfill my request, may the king and Haman come tomorrow to the banquet I will prepare for them. Then I will answer the king’s question.” Haman’s Plot against Mordecai 9That day Haman went out full of joy and glad of heart. At the king’s gate, however, he saw Mordecai, who did not rise or tremble in fear at his presence. And Haman was filled with rage toward Mordecai. 10Nevertheless, Haman restrained himself and went home. And calling for his friends and his wife Zeresh, 11Haman recounted to them his glorious wealth, his many sons, and all the ways the king had honored and promoted him over the other officials and servants. 12“What is more,” Haman added, “Queen Esther invited no one but me to join the king at the banquet she prepared, and I am invited back tomorrow along with the king. 13Yet none of this satisfies me as long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king’s gate.” 14His wife Zeresh and all his friends told him, “Have them build a gallows fifty cubits high,a and ask the king in the morning to have Mordecai hanged on it. Then go to the banquet with the king and enjoy yourself.” The advice pleased Haman, and he had the gallows constructed. Footnotes: 14 a 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 5 Summary Esther Approaches the King Verses 1–2 – Esther Enters the Inner Court On the third day of fasting, Esther dresses in royal robes and stands in the inner court, directly opposite the king’s throne. Xerxes (Ahasuerus) sees her, extends the golden scepter, and she approaches, touching the top of it—an immediate sign of acceptance and life. Verses 3–5 – Favor and First Invitation The king asks, “What is it, Queen Esther? What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given to you” (v. 3). Esther, rather than blurting out her plea, invites the king and Haman to a wine banquet that very day. Xerxes agrees, ordering Haman to hurry along. Verses 6–8 – The Banquet and Deferred Petition At the banquet the king again presses Esther for her petition. She invites the king and Haman to a second banquet the next day, promising then to reveal her request. The suspense builds; timing is everything. Verses 9–13 – Haman’s Swelling Pride and Sullen Rage Leaving the palace “joyful and glad of heart,” Haman’s mood flips when he sees Mordecai unmoved at the gate. He restrains himself, goes home, gathers friends and Zeresh his wife, and boasts of riches, sons, promotions, and intimacy with the royal couple. Yet one man’s refusal to bow nullifies all his joy. Verse 14 – Gallows Prepared Zeresh and the friends propose a 50–cubits-high gallows (about 75 feet). “Have a pole set up, … ask the king in the morning to have Mordecai hanged on it” (v. 14). The advice pleases Haman; the gallows is built overnight. Esther Chapter 5 unfolds a pivotal narrative in the Book of Esther. The brave Queen Esther courageously approaches the Persian King Xerxes to request for the lives of her people. As the tension mounts, Haman, the king's advisor, allows his arrogance and animosity towards Mordecai to cloud his judgment. Through a banquet, a plot, and divine providence, the chapter weaves a suspenseful account that foreshadows an unforeseen turn of events. Historical Setting • Reign of Xerxes I (486–465 BC). • The “inner court” lay just beyond the Hall of Pillars at Susa. Approaching uninvited carried a death sentence (cf. Herodotus 3.118). • Persian banquets regularly featured wine; archaeologists have unearthed silver drinking vessels at Susa that match the description in Esther 1:7. Royal Protocol and Risks • Persian law: anyone entering the king’s presence without summons could be killed unless pardoned by the scepter (Esther 4:11). Esther’s bold step risked her life. • The golden scepter, a symbol of royal authority, appears on reliefs from Persepolis, showing kings extending a long rod to officials. Archaeological Corroboration • Fifty-cubits gallows: Near Persepolis, tall wooden poles set in stone bases have been uncovered; impalement, not hanging with rope, was common punishment. • Record-keeping: Clay tablets from Susa list officials similar to those in Esther 1, confirming the administrative structure. Spiritual Themes: Courage and Providence • Courage: Esther acts after fasting (Esther 4:16). Comparably, Nehemiah prays before approaching Artaxerxes (Nehemiah 2:4). • Providence: God’s name is never mentioned, yet events align for deliverance. Proverbs 21:1—“The king’s heart is a watercourse in the hand of the LORD; He directs it wherever He pleases”. • Pride: Haman’s self-absorption mirrors Proverbs 16:18—“Pride goes before destruction.” Literary Observations • Two banquets create suspense, giving God time to shift circumstances (Esther 6). • Chiastic turn: Chapters 5–7 pivot on sleepless king (6:1); Haman’s plan for Mordecai boomerangs. • Irony: Haman boasts of a unique invitation, unaware it foreshadows his downfall. Connection to Other Scriptures • Joseph’s elevation and Egypt’s deliverance (Genesis 41) show a similar pattern of a Hebrew in exile interceding for the people. • Daniel before Darius (Daniel 6) echoes Mordecai’s integrity and danger under royal decree. • Luke 14:11—“Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled”—prefigures Haman’s reversal. • Revelation 19 portrays a future banquet where the redeemed, like Esther, enjoy the king’s favor. Practical Insights for Today • Strategic patience: Esther waits for the right moment; wisdom often includes timing. • Influence in hostile settings: Believers can serve faithfully in secular environments, trusting God to guide outcomes. • Managing success: Haman’s rage shows how unchecked ego destroys joy. Contentment is not measured by status but by character. Connections to Additional Scriptures Courage and Faith 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. Divine Favor Proverbs 3:3-4 - Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Wisdom and Patience James 1:5 - 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. Humility Proverbs 16:18 - Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Teaching Points Esther's Courage and Faith Esther approaches the king, knowing the risk involved. Esther 5:1 states, On the third day, Esther put on her royal attire and stood in the inner court of the palace, in front of the king’s hall. Her actions demonstrate her faith and reliance on God’s providence. Divine Favor The king's favorable response is crucial. Esther 5:2 says, When the king saw Queen Esther standing in the court, she found favor in his sight. This favor is a testament to God’s hand at work in the situation. Wisdom in Timing Esther invites the king and Haman to a banquet, showing her strategic patience. Esther 5:4 records, If it pleases the king, let the king and Haman come today to the banquet I have prepared for him. Her approach is thoughtful and deliberate. Haman's Pride Haman's reaction to the invitation reveals his arrogance. Esther 5:11-12 highlights his pride, Haman boasted to them about his vast wealth, his many sons, and all the ways the king had honored him and how he had elevated him above the other nobles and officials. Practical Applications Courage in Adversity Like Esther, we are called to act courageously in difficult situations, trusting in God’s protection and guidance. Seeking God’s Favor We should seek to live in a way that finds favor with God, knowing that His favor can open doors and change hearts. Patience and Wisdom In challenging circumstances, exercising patience and wisdom can lead to better outcomes than acting impulsively. Guarding Against Pride Haman’s downfall begins with his pride. We must remain humble and give glory to God for our successes. People 1. Esther Esther is the Jewish queen of Persia, married to King Xerxes (Ahasuerus). In Esther 5, she courageously approaches the king without being summoned, which could have resulted in her death, to invite him to a banquet she has prepared. Her Hebrew name, אֶסְתֵּר (Esther), is derived from the Persian word for "star." 2. King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) He is the king of Persia and the husband of Esther. In this chapter, he extends his golden scepter to Esther, showing her favor and allowing her to make her request. The name Ahasuerus is a transliteration of the Hebrew אֲחַשְׁוֵרוֹשׁ (Achashverosh), which corresponds to the Persian name Khshayarsha. 3. Haman Haman is the antagonist in the story, an official in the Persian court who is plotting to destroy the Jewish people. In Esther 5, he is invited to Esther's banquet and is filled with pride, but his mood changes when he sees Mordecai, who does not bow to him. His name, הָמָן (Haman), is of uncertain origin but is possibly related to the Elamite word for "magnificent." 4. Mordecai Although not directly mentioned in the events of Esther 5, Mordecai is a significant figure as Esther's cousin and guardian. He is the one who refuses to bow to Haman, which fuels Haman's anger. His Hebrew name, מָרְדֳּכַי (Mordecai), is thought to be derived from the Babylonian god Marduk. Places 1. The Inner Court of the King’s Palace Esther 5:1 describes Esther standing in the inner court of the king’s palace. This is a significant location as it is where Esther approaches King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) without being summoned, risking her life to plead for her people. The Hebrew term for "inner court" (חֲצַר הַמֶּלֶךְ הַפְּנִימִית, chatzar ha-melech ha-penimit) emphasizes the exclusivity and importance of this area within the royal complex. 2. The King’s Hall In Esther 5:1, the king is sitting on his royal throne in the king’s hall, facing the entrance. This hall is a place of authority and decision-making, where the king receives visitors and conducts official business. The Hebrew word for "hall" (בֵּית הַמֶּלֶךְ, beit ha-melech) indicates a formal and grand setting. 3. The Banquet of Wine Esther 5:4-5 mentions the banquet of wine that Esther prepares for the king and Haman. This banquet is a private and intimate setting where Esther plans to reveal her petition. The Hebrew term for "banquet" (מִשְׁתֶּה, mishteh) often implies a feast or gathering centered around drinking, highlighting the social and strategic nature of the event. Events 1. Esther Approaches the King Esther dresses in her royal attire and stands in the inner court of the king’s palace, opposite the king’s hall. The king sees her and extends his golden scepter, indicating his favor and permission for her to approach. This act of courage is significant, as approaching the king unsummoned could result in death (Esther 5:1-2). 2. The King’s Favor and Offer King Ahasuerus asks Esther what her request is, promising to grant it even up to half of his kingdom. This hyperbolic expression indicates the king’s willingness to be generous and attentive to Esther’s needs (Esther 5:3). 3. Esther’s First Banquet Invitation Esther invites the king and Haman to a banquet she has prepared. This strategic move sets the stage for her to present her true request at a more opportune moment (Esther 5:4). 4. The Banquet and the King’s Inquiry At the banquet, the king again asks Esther what her petition is, reiterating his willingness to grant it up to half of his kingdom. Esther, however, delays her request, inviting the king and Haman to another banquet the following day (Esther 5:5-8). 5. Haman’s Pride and Plot Haman leaves the banquet in high spirits but becomes enraged when he sees Mordecai at the king’s gate, refusing to bow. Haman’s pride and hatred for Mordecai are highlighted here, as he boasts to his family and friends about his wealth, his many sons, and his exclusive invitation to Esther’s banquet (Esther 5:9-12). 6. Haman’s Plan to Hang Mordecai Encouraged by his wife Zeresh and friends, Haman decides to build a gallows fifty cubits high to hang Mordecai. He plans to seek the king’s permission to execute Mordecai the next morning, demonstrating his deep-seated animosity and the escalating tension in the narrative (Esther 5:13-14). Lessons from Esther 5 1. The Power of Preparation Esther 5 begins with Esther preparing herself to approach the king. She doesn't rush in unprepared; instead, she takes time to fast and pray, seeking divine guidance. This reminds us of the importance of preparation in our own lives. As Proverbs 21:5 says, "The plans of the diligent bring plenty, as surely as haste leads to poverty." Whether it's a big presentation or a difficult conversation, preparation can make all the difference. 2. Courage in the Face of Fear Esther's decision to approach King Xerxes without being summoned was a bold and risky move. She knew the law and the potential consequences, yet she chose to act courageously. Her story encourages us to face our fears with faith, trusting that God is with us. As 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control." 3. The Importance of Timing Esther didn't reveal her request immediately. Instead, she invited the king and Haman to a banquet, showing us the value of timing. Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us, "To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven." Knowing when to act is as crucial as knowing what to do. 4. The Influence of Hospitality By inviting the king and Haman to a banquet, Esther used hospitality to create a favorable environment. This act of kindness and generosity opened the door for her to make her request. Hebrews 13:2 advises, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." 5. The Subtlety of Wisdom Esther's approach was marked by wisdom and subtlety. She didn't confront Haman directly or accuse him in front of the king. Instead, she laid the groundwork for her request. James 1:5 encourages us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him." 6. The Role of Patience Esther's patience is evident as she waits for the right moment to reveal her true request. Patience is a virtue that allows us to wait for God's perfect timing. As Romans 12:12 instructs, "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, persistent in prayer." 7. The Impact of Favor Esther found favor in the eyes of the king, which was crucial for her success. This favor was not just a result of her beauty or charm but also her character and God's providence. Proverbs 3:4 says, "Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man." 8. The Significance of Identity Esther's Jewish identity was central to her mission, even though it was initially hidden. Her story reminds us of the importance of knowing who we are and standing firm in our identity. Galatians 3:28 declares, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." 9. The Consequences of Pride Haman's pride and arrogance are highlighted in this chapter, setting the stage for his downfall. Pride can lead to destruction, as Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." 10. The Assurance of Divine Providence Throughout Esther 5, we see God's hand at work, orchestrating events for His purpose. Even when His name isn't mentioned, His presence is undeniable. Romans 8:28 assures 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." Esther's story is a powerful reminder that God is always in control, working behind the scenes for our good and His glory. Topics 1. Esther's Bold Approach to the King Esther 5 begins with Queen Esther taking a courageous step by approaching King Xerxes uninvited, which could have resulted in her death. This act of bravery is significant as it demonstrates her faith and reliance on God's providence. The Hebrew root for "approach" (נָגַשׁ, ^nagash^) implies drawing near with purpose and intent, highlighting Esther's determination and courage. 2. The King's Favor and Esther's Request Upon seeing Esther, the king extends his golden scepter, signifying his favor and willingness to hear her request. Esther 5:2 states, "When the king saw Queen Esther standing in the court, she found favor in his sight." The Hebrew word for "favor" (חֵן, ^chen^) suggests grace and acceptance, indicating God's hand in the situation. 3. Esther's Invitation to a Banquet Esther invites the king and Haman to a banquet she has prepared. This strategic move shows her wisdom and patience, as she seeks the right moment to present her true request. The Hebrew term for "banquet" (מִשְׁתֶּה, ^mishteh^) often implies a feast or celebration, setting the stage for the unfolding events. 4. Haman's Pride and Joy Haman leaves the banquet joyful and proud, as described in Esther 5:9, "Haman went out that day joyful and glad of heart." The Hebrew word for "joyful" (שָׂמֵחַ, ^sameach^) reflects his temporary elation, which is rooted in his pride and self-importance. 5. Haman's Anger Toward Mordecai Despite his joy, Haman's mood shifts when he sees Mordecai, who refuses to bow to him. This fuels Haman's anger and desire for revenge. The Hebrew word for "anger" (חֵמָה, ^chemah^) conveys a sense of burning rage, illustrating Haman's deep-seated animosity. 6. Haman's Plot Against Mordecai Haman's wife and friends suggest building a gallows to hang Mordecai, which pleases Haman. This plot reveals the depth of Haman's hatred and foreshadows the reversal of his plans. The Hebrew term for "gallows" (עֵץ, ^etz^) can also mean "tree" or "wood," symbolizing the instrument of Mordecai's intended execution. Themes 1. Divine Favor and Courage Esther approaches the king uninvited, which could have led to her death. Her courage is rewarded with favor, as the king extends his golden scepter to her (Esther 5:2). The Hebrew root for "favor" (חֵן, chen) implies grace and acceptance, highlighting God's providential care. 2. Wisdom and Strategy Esther's request to invite the king and Haman to a banquet demonstrates her strategic thinking (Esther 5:4). This reflects the biblical theme of wisdom, as she carefully plans her approach to reveal Haman's plot. 3. Pride and Arrogance Haman's reaction to being invited to the banquet reveals his pride and arrogance (Esther 5:11-12). The Hebrew word for "pride" (גָּאוֹן, ga'on) often denotes a sense of self-exaltation, which is a recurring theme in Scripture as a precursor to downfall. 4. Righteous Indignation Mordecai's refusal to bow to Haman (Esther 5:9) exemplifies righteous indignation. This theme underscores the importance of standing firm in one's convictions, even in the face of potential danger. 5. Providence and Timing The unfolding events in Esther 5 highlight the theme of divine providence and perfect timing. Esther's actions set the stage for the eventual deliverance of the Jews, illustrating the biblical principle that God orchestrates events for His purposes. Prayer Points Pray for the courage to stand firm in faith, even when facing daunting challenges. Ask for God’s favor in your life and the wisdom to recognize and act upon it. Seek patience and discernment in making decisions, trusting in God’s timing. Pray for a humble heart, free from pride, that seeks to honor God in all things. As we reflect on Esther 5, may we be inspired by Esther’s example of courage, faith, and wisdom, trusting that God is at work in our lives just as He was in hers. Answering Tough Questions 1. Esther 5:1 – How plausible is it that a Jewish foreigner could have risen to queen with no corroborating Persian records? 2. Esther 5:2 – Does the king’s death-penalty-for-approach truly align with known Persian court laws? 3. Esther 5:3 – Is the promise of giving “up to half the kingdom” a credible Persian practice or mere hyperbole? 4. Esther 5:4–8 – Why are these banquets and intrigues not mentioned in any historical or archaeological records of Persia? 5. Esther 5 – Why does this chapter, like the rest of the book, omit any direct mention of God, leaving room for skepticism about its religious significance? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Esther exemplify courage in approaching King Xerxes? 2. What role does strategic wisdom play in Esther's actions? Can you provide examples from your life where such wisdom was or could have been beneficial? 3. How does Haman's pride lead to his downfall? 4. What lessons can we learn from Esther about using influence for the greater good? 5. How does Esther Chapter 5 demonstrate God's providential care? 6. How do you see the theme of faith playing out in this chapter? 7. How does the suspense and tension in the story relate to times of uncertainty in your own life? 8. How does Esther's delay in making her request reflect wisdom and understanding? 9. Why do you think Esther invited only King Xerxes and Haman to her banquet? 10. How does the narrative about Haman's plan against Mordecai foreshadow his eventual downfall? 11. How does Esther's courage inspire you in your present circumstances? 12. Can you think of a situation in which you need to exhibit courage as Esther did? 13. How does Haman's reaction to Mordecai at the gate reflect his character? 14. How does Esther's approach to a critical situation differ from Haman's approach to his issues with Mordecai? 15. In what ways can the themes of this chapter be applied in our society today? 16. How does Haman's response to his wife and friends' advice mirror the dangers of surrounding oneself with enablers? 17. How does Esther's wisdom in handling a potentially volatile situation inspire you in dealing with conflicts in your life? 18. Why do you think Esther chose to reveal her request at the second banquet instead of the first? 19. How does Haman's quick acceptance of his wife and friends' advice show about the potential dangers of hasty decision-making? 20. What lessons about pride and humility can be drawn from the characters of Haman and Mordecai, and how can they be applied in your life? 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