Esther 7:10

So they hanged Haman on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai. Then the fury of the king subsided.

Study Bible

So they hanged Haman
This phrase marks the culmination of Haman's downfall, a man who epitomized pride and malice. The Hebrew root for "hanged" is "תָּלָה" (talah), which can mean to hang or suspend. In the ancient Near Eastern context, hanging was a form of execution that signified public disgrace. Haman's execution on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai is a vivid illustration of poetic justice and divine retribution. It serves as a reminder of the biblical principle found in Proverbs 26:27, "Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, and he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him."

on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai
The irony of Haman's fate is underscored by the fact that the gallows, which he had maliciously constructed for Mordecai, became the instrument of his own demise. This highlights the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and justice, where the wicked are ensnared by their own schemes. The gallows, likely a wooden pole or stake, was a symbol of Haman's intent to annihilate the Jewish people, yet it became a testament to God's protection over His chosen people. This reversal of fortune is a powerful testament to the providence of God, who turns the plans of the wicked to fulfill His purposes.

Then the king’s fury subsided
The phrase indicates a turning point in the narrative. The Hebrew word for "fury" is "חֵמָה" (chemah), which conveys intense anger or wrath. King Xerxes' anger, once kindled by Haman's treachery, is now appeased by the execution of justice. This moment reflects the biblical understanding of righteous anger, which seeks justice and the restoration of order. The subsiding of the king's fury also signifies the restoration of peace and stability in the kingdom, as the threat to the Jewish people is neutralized. It serves as a reminder of the peace that follows when justice is served and God's will is accomplished.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Haman
A high-ranking official in the Persian Empire who plotted to annihilate the Jews. His pride and hatred led to his downfall.

2. Mordecai
A Jew living in Susa, the capital of the Persian Empire, and the cousin of Queen Esther. He refused to bow to Haman, which incited Haman's wrath.

3. Esther
The Jewish queen of Persia who bravely intervened to save her people from Haman's plot.

4. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who was initially unaware of Haman's plot against the Jews but was persuaded by Esther to act against Haman.

5. The Gallows
A structure Haman built to execute Mordecai, which ultimately became the instrument of his own execution.

Teaching Points

Divine Justice
God's justice prevails even when evil seems to have the upper hand. Haman's fate is a reminder that God sees and acts in His timing.

Pride and Humility
Haman's downfall was rooted in his pride. Scripture consistently warns against pride and exalts humility. Believers are encouraged to walk humbly with God.

Courage and Advocacy
Esther's courage to speak up for her people is a powerful example of advocacy. Christians are called to stand for truth and justice, even at personal risk.

The Reversal of Fortunes
The account of Esther highlights how God can reverse dire situations. Believers can trust in God's ability to turn circumstances around for His glory and our good.

The Role of Providence
God's providence is evident throughout the book of Esther, even though His name is not mentioned. This encourages believers to trust in God's unseen hand in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Haman's downfall illustrate the biblical principle of reaping what one sows? Can you think of other biblical examples where this principle is evident?

2. In what ways can pride lead to one's downfall, and how can we guard against it in our own lives?

3. How does Esther's courage inspire you to advocate for others in your community or workplace? What steps can you take to be a voice for justice?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "reversal of fortunes" in your life. How did you see God's hand at work in that situation?

5. How can the account of Esther encourage you to trust in God's providence, even when His presence is not immediately apparent? What scriptures can you turn to for reassurance of God's sovereignty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 26:27
This verse speaks to the principle of reaping what one sows, as Haman's plot against Mordecai backfired on him.

Galatians 6:7
This New Testament verse echoes the theme of divine justice and the consequences of one's actions.

Psalm 7:15-16
These verses describe how the wicked fall into the traps they set for others, paralleling Haman's fate.