Esther 5:14

His wife Zeresh and all his friends told him, "Have them build a gallows fifty cubits high, 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.

Study Bible

His wife Zeresh and all his friends
This phrase introduces the influential figures in Haman's life, particularly his wife Zeresh and his friends. In the ancient Persian context, family and close associates played a significant role in decision-making. Zeresh, whose name may mean "gold" or "splendor," symbolizes the worldly wisdom and counsel that often leads individuals astray from godly principles. The collective advice of his friends and wife reflects a consensus that is not rooted in righteousness but in personal vendetta and pride.

told him
The act of telling or advising here is crucial. In Hebrew, the word used for "told" can imply a directive or command, indicating the strong influence these individuals had over Haman. This highlights the danger of surrounding oneself with counselors who do not fear God, as their advice can lead to destructive paths.

Have them build a gallows seventy-five feet high
The suggestion to build a gallows of such an extraordinary height (literally "fifty cubits") is significant. In the ancient world, the height of the gallows was not just for the act of execution but also for public humiliation and a display of power. The number fifty in biblical numerology often symbolizes fullness or completion, which in this context, tragically underscores the completeness of Haman's pride and malice. The gallows' height also serves as a metaphor for Haman's inflated ego and the extent of his hatred for Mordecai.

in the morning ask the king
This phrase indicates the urgency and premeditated nature of Haman's plan. The morning, often seen as a time of new beginnings, is here twisted into a time for plotting death. The suggestion to approach the king first thing in the morning shows Haman's confidence in his influence over the king and his belief in the righteousness of his cause, despite its wickedness.

to have Mordecai hanged on it
The specific targeting of Mordecai reveals the personal vendetta Haman harbors. Mordecai, a Jew who refused to bow to Haman, represents the righteous who stand firm in their faith. The act of hanging, in ancient Near Eastern cultures, was not only a method of execution but also a means of public disgrace. This reflects Haman's desire not just to kill Mordecai but to utterly humiliate him.

Then go to the banquet with the king and enjoy yourself
This phrase highlights the callousness and moral blindness of Haman and his advisors. The juxtaposition of planning a murder and then attending a banquet underscores the depth of Haman's depravity. It reflects a heart hardened to sin, where the pursuit of pleasure and status blinds one to the gravity of their actions.

This suggestion pleased Haman
The pleasure Haman derives from this suggestion reveals his character. In Hebrew, the word for "pleased" can also mean "good" or "right," indicating that Haman saw this plan as not only satisfying but justified. This self-deception is a common theme in Scripture, where individuals convince themselves of the righteousness of their sinful actions.

and he had the gallows constructed
The immediate action taken by Haman to construct the gallows demonstrates his resolve and the depth of his hatred. It also foreshadows the biblical principle that those who set traps for others often fall into them themselves (Proverbs 26:27). The construction of the gallows becomes a pivotal moment in the narrative, setting the stage for the dramatic reversal that God orchestrates in the account of Esther.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Haman
A high-ranking official in the Persian Empire, known for his pride and hatred towards the Jews, particularly Mordecai.

2. Zeresh
Haman's wife, who advises him to build a gallows for Mordecai, showing her complicity in Haman's schemes.

3. Mordecai
A Jew living in Susa, who refuses to bow to Haman, inciting Haman's wrath.

4. The Gallows
A structure intended for Mordecai's execution, symbolizing Haman's malice and pride.

5. The Banquet
A feast prepared by Queen Esther, which plays a crucial role in the unfolding of events leading to Haman's downfall.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Pride
Haman's pride leads him to make irrational decisions. As Christians, we must guard against pride, which can cloud our judgment and lead to our downfall.

Influence of Counsel
Zeresh and Haman's friends encourage his wicked plans. We should seek godly counsel that aligns with biblical principles rather than advice that leads us away from God's will.

God's Sovereignty
Despite Haman's plans, God is in control and uses the situation to protect His people. Trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem dire.

The Consequences of Hatred
Haman's hatred for Mordecai consumes him and ultimately leads to his destruction. We must be vigilant against allowing hatred to take root in our hearts.

The Power of Patience and Faith
Mordecai's patience and faith in God contrast with Haman's impulsive actions. Trusting in God's timing is crucial for believers.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Haman's pride influence his decision-making, and what can we learn from this about the dangers of pride in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the counsel of Zeresh and Haman's friends impact his actions, and how can we ensure we are receiving godly counsel?

3. How does the account of Haman and Mordecai illustrate the biblical principle of reaping what one sows?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's sovereignty and His ability to use even the wicked plans of others for His purposes?

5. How can Mordecai's example of patience and faith encourage us in situations where we face opposition or injustice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 16:18
This verse speaks about pride leading to destruction, which is evident in Haman's account as his pride blinds him to the consequences of his actions.

Psalm 7:14-16
These verses describe how the wicked fall into the traps they set for others, paralleling Haman's fate.

Galatians 6:7
This verse about reaping what one sows is relevant to Haman's eventual downfall due to his own schemes.