Esther 7:1
So the king and Haman went to dine with Esther the queen,
So the king and Haman
This phrase highlights the presence of two central figures in the narrative: King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) and Haman, the antagonist. The king's authority and Haman's high position as his advisor set the stage for the unfolding drama. Historically, the Persian Empire was vast, and the king's decisions had far-reaching implications. Haman's role as a high-ranking official underscores the gravity of the situation, as he had previously plotted to annihilate the Jewish people (Esther 3:6-13).

went to dine
Dining in the ancient Near East was not merely a meal but a significant social event, often used to discuss important matters or solidify alliances. The act of dining together suggests a level of intimacy and trust, which is ironic given Haman's hidden agenda against Esther's people. This setting provides Esther with the opportunity to reveal her true identity and plead for her people, demonstrating the providential timing and wisdom in her approach.

with Esther the queen
Esther's position as queen is crucial to the narrative. Her ascent from a Jewish orphan to queen of Persia is a testament to divine providence and favor. Esther's role as queen gives her unique access to the king, which she uses to intercede for her people. Her courage and strategic planning are reminiscent of other biblical figures who acted as mediators, such as Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 41) and Daniel in Babylon (Daniel 6). Esther's actions can also be seen as a type of Christ, who intercedes on behalf of His people (Hebrews 7:25).

Persons / Places / Events
1. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who ruled over 127 provinces from India to Cush. He is a central figure in the Book of Esther, known for his opulent lifestyle and impulsive decisions.

2. Haman
The antagonist of the account, an Agagite and high-ranking official in King Ahasuerus's court. He plotted to annihilate the Jews in the Persian Empire.

3. Queen Esther
A Jewish woman who became queen of Persia. She is known for her bravery and wisdom in saving her people from destruction.

4. The Banquet
A private dinner hosted by Queen Esther for King Ahasuerus and Haman. This event is pivotal as it sets the stage for Esther to reveal Haman's plot against the Jews.

5. The Persian Empire
The setting of the Book of Esther, a vast and diverse empire where the events unfold.
Teaching Points
Divine Timing and Wisdom
Esther's decision to host a banquet shows her wisdom and patience. She waits for the right moment to present her request to the king, teaching us the importance of timing and discernment in our actions.

Courage in the Face of Adversity
Esther's courage to confront the king and Haman, despite the risks, encourages believers to stand firm in their convictions and trust God in difficult situations.

God's Sovereignty
The unfolding events at the banquet demonstrate God's control over circumstances, reminding us that He is at work even when His presence is not overtly visible.

The Power of Influence
Esther's influence as queen is a reminder of the impact one person can have when they use their position and resources for God's purposes.

The Consequences of Pride
Haman's presence at the banquet, unaware of his impending downfall, serves as a warning against pride and the false security it brings.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Esther's approach to the king and Haman at the banquet reflect her wisdom and strategic thinking? How can we apply similar wisdom in our own decision-making processes?

2. In what ways does the account of Esther illustrate the concept of divine providence? Can you think of a time in your life when you saw God's hand at work in unexpected ways?

3. How does Esther's courage inspire you to face challenges in your own life? What steps can you take to cultivate greater courage and faith?

4. Reflect on the role of influence in Esther's account. How can you use your own influence, whether great or small, to further God's kingdom?

5. Consider the downfall of Haman. What does this teach us about the dangers of pride and the importance of humility? How can we guard our hearts against prideful attitudes?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Esther 5:4-8
These verses describe Esther's initial invitation to the king and Haman to the banquet, highlighting her strategic approach in dealing with the crisis facing her people.

Proverbs 21:1
This verse speaks to the sovereignty of God over the hearts of kings, which is evident in how God orchestrates events in Esther's favor.

Genesis 50:20
Joseph's words about God's providence in turning evil intentions for good parallel Esther's situation, where Haman's plot is ultimately used to deliver the Jews.
A Plea for LibertyA. Raleigh, D. D.Esther 7:1-6
A Plea for LifeJ. Hughes.Esther 7:1-6
Accused and ConvictedW. Dinwiddle Esther 7:1-6
Cruel People Often CowardlyA. Raleigh, D. D.Esther 7:1-6
Esther's PetitionT. McCrie, D. D.Esther 7:1-6
Guilt CowardlyT. McEwan.Esther 7:1-6
Moral IndignationA. M. Symington, B. A.Esther 7:1-6
The Doings of a Wicked HeartW. Burrows, B. A.Esther 7:1-6
The Index FingerJ. Parker, D. D.Esther 7:1-6
The Prudent Management of ThingsA. Raleigh, D. D.Esther 7:1-6
A Crisis, a Plea, and a DeliveranceW. Clarkson Esther 7:1-7
People
Ahasuerus, Esther, Haman, Harbonah, Mordecai
Places
Susa
Topics
Banquet, Dine, Drink, Esther, Feast, Haman, Queen, Wine
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Esther 7:1-3

     5487   queen

Esther 7:1-10

     4476   meals

Library
Before Caiaphas
"And they led Jesus away to the high priest: and there come together with him all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes. And Peter had followed Him afar off, even within, into the court of the high priest; and he was sitting with the officers, and warming himself in the light of the fire. Now the chief priests and the whole council sought witness against Jesus to put Him to death; and found it not. For many bare false witness against Him, and their witness agreed not together. And there
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark

Man's Misery by the Fall
Q-19: WHAT IS THE MISERY OF THAT ESTATE WHEREINTO MAN FELL? A: All mankind by their fall lost communion with God, are under his wrath and curse, and so made liable to all the miseries in this life, to death itself, and to the pains of hell for ever. 'And were by nature children of wrath.' Eph 2:2. Adam left an unhappy portion to his posterity, Sin and Misery. Having considered the first of these, original sin, we shall now advert to the misery of that state. In the first, we have seen mankind offending;
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Esther
The spirit of the book of Esther is anything but attractive. It is never quoted or referred to by Jesus or His apostles, and it is a satisfaction to think that in very early times, and even among Jewish scholars, its right to a place in the canon was hotly contested. Its aggressive fanaticism and fierce hatred of all that lay outside of Judaism were felt by the finer spirits to be false to the more generous instincts that lay at the heart of the Hebrew religion; but by virtue of its very intensity
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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