Esther 6:4

"Who is in the court?" the king asked. Now Haman had just entered the outer court of the palace to ask the king to hang Mordecai on the gallows he had prepared for him.

Study Bible

Who is in the court?
This phrase reflects the king's immediate curiosity and need for counsel. In the Persian royal court, access to the king was highly restricted, and only those with specific permission could enter. The king's question indicates a moment of divine orchestration, as God uses the king's inquiry to set the stage for the unfolding of His plan. The Hebrew context suggests a sense of urgency and divine timing, as the king's question leads to a pivotal moment in the narrative.

the king asked
The king, Ahasuerus, is portrayed as a central figure whose decisions impact the fate of the Jewish people. His inquiry is not just a casual question but a divinely inspired moment that aligns with God's providential plan. The king's authority and his role as a decision-maker are crucial in the unfolding events, highlighting the theme of God's sovereignty over earthly rulers.

Now Haman had just entered
Haman's entrance at this precise moment is a significant turning point. The Hebrew text emphasizes the immediacy and timing of Haman's arrival, underscoring the theme of divine intervention. Haman, the antagonist, is unaware that his plans are about to be thwarted by God's providence. This moment serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that God can turn the schemes of the wicked to fulfill His purposes.

the outer court of the palace
The outer court was a place where those seeking an audience with the king would wait. It symbolizes the threshold between human intention and divine intervention. Haman's presence in the outer court, poised to execute his plan against Mordecai, contrasts with the unseen hand of God orchestrating events for the deliverance of His people. The historical context of the Persian court system adds depth to the understanding of the narrative's tension and drama.

to speak to the king
Haman's intention to speak to the king about Mordecai reveals his arrogance and confidence in his influence over the king. The phrase highlights the theme of pride and its consequences, as Haman's plans are about to be overturned. In the broader scriptural context, this serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the ultimate authority of God over human affairs.

about hanging Mordecai on the gallows
The gallows, or more accurately, a stake for impalement, was a method of execution that Haman had prepared for Mordecai. This phrase underscores the severity of Haman's hatred and the peril facing Mordecai. However, it also foreshadows the reversal of fortunes that is central to the account of Esther. The historical and cultural context of Persian execution methods adds gravity to the narrative, while the scriptural theme of divine justice is powerfully illustrated.

he had prepared for him
Haman's preparation of the gallows for Mordecai is an act of premeditated malice. Yet, in the providence of God, the very instrument of intended harm becomes the means of Haman's downfall. This phrase encapsulates the biblical theme of retributive justice, where the wicked are ensnared by their own devices. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's ability to protect and vindicate His people, turning evil intentions into opportunities for His glory.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who ruled over 127 provinces from India to Cush. He is central to the events in the Book of Esther, often depicted as a ruler swayed by his advisors.

2. Haman
The antagonist of the account, an Agagite and high-ranking official in the Persian Empire. He harbors a deep hatred for Mordecai and the Jewish people, plotting their destruction.

3. Mordecai
A Jew in Susa, the capital of Persia, and cousin to Queen Esther. He previously saved the king from an assassination plot, which becomes pivotal in this chapter.

4. The Outer Court of the Palace
The location where Haman enters to seek the king's permission to execute Mordecai. This setting is crucial as it sets the stage for the reversal of Haman's plans.

5. The Gallows
A structure Haman had built to execute Mordecai. It symbolizes Haman's pride and malicious intent, which ultimately leads to his downfall.

Teaching Points

Divine Providence
God's unseen hand is at work, orchestrating events for His purposes. Even when God is not mentioned, His providence is evident in the timing and outcomes of events.

The Reversal of Fortunes
The account of Esther highlights how God can reverse situations, turning intended harm into blessing for His people.

The Dangers of Pride
Haman's downfall is a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of pride and the importance of humility before God and others.

The Importance of Righteousness
Mordecai's integrity and faithfulness are rewarded, reminding believers to remain steadfast in righteousness.

God's Justice
The account assures believers that God sees injustice and will act in His timing to bring about justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the timing of Haman's entrance into the court demonstrate God's providence in the account of Esther?

2. In what ways does the account of Haman and Mordecai illustrate the biblical principle that pride comes before a fall?

3. How can we apply the concept of divine reversals in our own lives when facing difficult situations?

4. What lessons can we learn from Mordecai's character and actions that can be applied to our daily walk with God?

5. How does the account of Esther 6:4 encourage us to trust in God's justice, even when we face opposition or injustice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Genesis 50:20
Joseph's words about God turning evil intentions into good can be related to how God uses Haman's plot to elevate Mordecai.

Psalm 37:12-13
These verses describe how the wicked plot against the righteous, but the Lord laughs, knowing their day is coming, paralleling Haman's fate.