Esther 3:11

"Keep your money," said the king to Haman. "These people are given to you to do with them as you please."

Study Bible

The king said to Haman
This phrase introduces a pivotal moment in the narrative of Esther. The king, Ahasuerus, is the ruler of the Persian Empire, a vast and powerful domain. His words carry immense authority and consequence. Historically, the Persian kings were known for their absolute power, and their decrees were irrevocable. In this context, the king's dialogue with Haman, his trusted advisor, sets the stage for a significant and ominous decision. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) often implies not just speaking, but a declaration or command, underscoring the weight of the king's words.

The money is given to you
This phrase indicates a transaction or agreement between the king and Haman. In ancient times, financial dealings were often a sign of trust and partnership. The "money" here refers to the silver Haman offered to the king's treasury in exchange for permission to annihilate the Jews (Esther 3:9). The king's response suggests a dismissive attitude towards the bribe, possibly indicating his trust in Haman or his indifference to the financial aspect. The Hebrew word for "money" (כֶּסֶף, keseph) can also mean "silver," a common currency in the ancient Near East, highlighting the material and transactional nature of this agreement.

and the people also
This phrase refers to the Jewish people, whom Haman seeks to destroy. The king's casual reference to "the people" reflects a detachment from the gravity of the situation. In the historical context, the Jews were a minority group within the Persian Empire, often facing prejudice and hostility. The Hebrew word for "people" (עַם, 'am) is a general term that can denote a nation or ethnic group, emphasizing the collective identity of the Jews and the widespread impact of the decree.

to do with them as you please
This phrase grants Haman unrestricted authority over the fate of the Jewish people. The king's abdication of responsibility is stark, as he entrusts Haman with life-and-death power. The historical context reveals the precarious position of minority groups under autocratic rule, where their survival often depended on the whims of those in power. The Hebrew root for "please" (טוֹב, tov) generally means "good" or "pleasing," but in this context, it underscores the subjective and potentially malevolent intentions of Haman. This phrase highlights the theme of divine providence in the Book of Esther, as it sets the stage for the dramatic reversal and deliverance that follows.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who ruled over 127 provinces from India to Cush. He is known for his opulence and for making impulsive decisions, such as the one in this verse.

2. Haman
The antagonist in the Book of Esther, an Agagite who held a high position in the Persian court. He harbored a deep hatred for the Jews, particularly Mordecai, and sought their destruction.

3. The Persian Empire
The setting of the Book of Esther, a vast and powerful empire known for its complex bureaucracy and diverse population.

4. The Decree
The event in which King Ahasuerus gives Haman the authority to annihilate the Jews, demonstrating the king's trust in Haman and the grave danger facing the Jewish people.

5. Mordecai
A Jew in the Persian Empire, cousin and guardian of Esther, who refused to bow to Haman, inciting Haman's wrath and the subsequent plot against the Jews.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Rash Decisions
King Ahasuerus's impulsive granting of power to Haman serves as a warning against making hasty decisions without seeking wise counsel or considering the consequences.

The Influence of Evil
Haman's manipulation of the king demonstrates how evil can influence those in power, reminding believers to pray for leaders and their decisions.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the dire situation, God's sovereignty is evident. Believers can trust that God is in control, even when circumstances seem bleak.

The Importance of Standing Firm
Mordecai's refusal to bow to Haman exemplifies the importance of standing firm in one's faith and convictions, regardless of the potential cost.

Intercession and Advocacy
Esther's eventual role as an advocate for her people encourages believers to intercede for others and use their positions to effect positive change.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from King Ahasuerus's decision to give Haman such power, and how can we apply this lesson to our decision-making processes?

2. How does Haman's plot against the Jews reflect the spiritual battles we face today, and what scriptures can we use to combat such threats?

3. In what ways does Mordecai's refusal to bow to Haman inspire us to stand firm in our faith, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

4. How does the account of Esther and the decree against the Jews illustrate God's sovereignty, and what other biblical examples reinforce this truth?

5. What role does intercession play in the account of Esther, and how can we incorporate intercessory prayer into our spiritual practices today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:3
God's promise to bless those who bless Abraham's descendants and curse those who curse them. This connection highlights the spiritual peril Haman faces in plotting against the Jews.

Proverbs 21:1
The heart of the king is in the hand of the Lord, illustrating that despite Ahasuerus's decision, God is ultimately in control.

Romans 8:28
God's ability to work all things for good for those who love Him, foreshadowing the eventual deliverance of the Jews through Esther's bravery.