Esther 6:11

So Haman took the robe and the horse, arrayed Mordecai, and paraded him through the city square, crying out before him, "This is what is done for the man whom the king is delighted to honor!"

Study Bible

So Haman took the robe and the horse
In this phrase, we see a dramatic reversal of fortune. Haman, who had plotted to destroy Mordecai, is now tasked with honoring him. The Hebrew word for "took" (לָקַח, laqach) implies an action that is both deliberate and unavoidable. Haman's taking of the robe and horse signifies a divine orchestration of events, where God’s providence turns the plans of the wicked to fulfill His purposes. Historically, Persian kings often bestowed such honors to demonstrate their favor, and here, it underscores the irony and justice of God’s intervention.

robed Mordecai
The act of robing Mordecai is rich with symbolism. The Hebrew root for "robed" (לָבַשׁ, labash) means to clothe or dress, often used in the context of honor and dignity. Mordecai, who had been in sackcloth and ashes, is now clothed in royal garments, signifying a transformation from mourning to joy. This act is reminiscent of Isaiah 61:3, where God promises to give "a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." It is a powerful reminder of how God can elevate the humble and bring justice to the oppressed.

and led him on horseback through the city streets
The public nature of this honor is significant. The phrase "led him on horseback" indicates a procession that would have been highly visible and ceremonial. In ancient Persia, such a display was reserved for those whom the king delighted to honor. The city streets, bustling with life, become the stage for God’s vindication of Mordecai. This public acknowledgment serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises, echoing the biblical theme that God exalts the righteous in due time.

proclaiming before him, “This is what is done for the man whom the king delights to honor!”
The proclamation is a declaration of Mordecai’s newfound status and the king’s favor. The phrase "the man whom the king delights to honor" is repeated throughout the chapter, emphasizing the reversal of Haman’s intentions. The Hebrew word for "delights" (חָפֵץ, chaphets) conveys a sense of pleasure and desire, indicating that Mordecai’s actions had found favor in the king’s eyes. This public declaration not only elevates Mordecai but also serves as a humbling experience for Haman, illustrating the biblical principle that pride comes before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). It is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and His ability to turn the tables in favor of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Haman
A high-ranking official in the Persian Empire who plotted to destroy the Jews. His pride and desire for personal honor led to his downfall.

2. Mordecai
A Jew living in Susa, the capital of the Persian Empire. He was Esther's cousin and guardian, and he had previously saved King Xerxes from an assassination plot.

3. King Xerxes (Ahasuerus)
The Persian king who unknowingly set the stage for Mordecai's honor by asking Haman how to reward someone the king wishes to honor.

4. Susa
The capital city of the Persian Empire, where the events of the Book of Esther take place.

5. The Royal Robe and Horse
Symbols of honor and royal favor in the Persian Empire, used to publicly recognize someone the king wishes to honor.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Timing
God's hand is evident in the timing of events. Mordecai's honor comes at a crucial moment, showing that God orchestrates events for His purposes.

The Reversal of Fortunes
Haman's plan to destroy Mordecai backfires, illustrating the biblical principle that God can turn the plans of the wicked to accomplish His purposes.

Humility vs. Pride
Mordecai's humility contrasts with Haman's pride. Believers are called to live humbly, trusting that God will lift them up in due time.

Public Recognition of God's People
Mordecai's public honor serves as a reminder that God can elevate His people in the eyes of others, often in unexpected ways.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Mordecai's honor in Esther 6:11 demonstrate God's sovereignty and timing in our lives?

2. In what ways does Haman's downfall illustrate the biblical principle found in Proverbs 16:18 about pride and destruction?

3. How can Mordecai's humility and eventual honor encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan for our own lives?

4. What are some modern-day examples of God reversing the plans of the wicked to bring about His purposes, similar to the account of Esther?

5. How can we apply the lesson of public recognition of God's people to our own lives, ensuring that we seek God's honor rather than human approval?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
Joseph is honored by Pharaoh and given authority in Egypt, similar to how Mordecai is honored by King Xerxes.

Proverbs 16:18
This verse speaks about pride leading to destruction, which is evident in Haman's account.

1 Peter 5:6
Encourages believers to humble themselves so that God may exalt them in due time, reflecting Mordecai's humble rise to honor.