Esther 8:7

So King Xerxes said to Esther the Queen and Mordecai the Jew, "Behold, I have given Haman's estate to Esther, and he was hanged on the gallows because he attacked the Jews.

Study Bible

So King Xerxes said
The phrase begins with the authority of King Xerxes, the ruler of the Persian Empire. In the Hebrew text, the king is referred to as "Ahasuerus," a name that aligns with the historical figure known as Xerxes I. This highlights the historical context of the narrative, set in the vast and powerful Persian Empire, which stretched from India to Ethiopia. The king's words carry the weight of imperial authority, underscoring the significance of his decree.

to Queen Esther and Mordecai the Jew
This phrase emphasizes the elevated status of both Esther and Mordecai. Esther, once an orphaned Jewish girl, has risen to the position of queen, demonstrating God's providence and favor. Mordecai, identified specifically as "the Jew," signifies the representation of the Jewish people within the Persian court. This highlights the theme of divine reversal and the elevation of the humble, a recurring motif in the Book of Esther.

Behold, I have given Haman’s estate to Esther
The word "Behold" is a call to attention, indicating the importance of the king's action. The transfer of Haman's estate to Esther is a significant reversal of fortune. Haman, the antagonist who plotted against the Jews, loses everything, while Esther, a Jew, gains his wealth and property. This act of justice reflects the biblical principle that God exalts the righteous and humbles the proud, as seen in Proverbs 3:34, "He mocks the mockers but gives grace to the humble."

and he was hanged on the gallows
The phrase refers to the execution of Haman, which is a pivotal moment in the narrative. The gallows, or more accurately, the stake or pole, was a common method of execution in the ancient Near East. Haman's death on the very instrument he intended for Mordecai is a powerful example of poetic justice. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice, as seen in Psalm 7:15-16, "He has dug a hole and hollowed it out; he has fallen into a pit of his own making."

because he attacked the Jews
This final phrase provides the reason for Haman's downfall. His attack on the Jews was not merely a political maneuver but an affront to God's chosen people. The protection and preservation of the Jewish people are central themes in the Book of Esther, reflecting God's covenantal faithfulness. This echoes the promise found in Genesis 12:3, "I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse," underscoring the divine protection over the Jewish nation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Xerxes (Ahasuerus)
The Persian king who ruled over 127 provinces from India to Cush. He plays a pivotal role in the account of Esther, making decisions that impact the Jewish people.

2. Queen Esther
A Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia. Her bravery and faith are central to the deliverance of her people.

3. Mordecai the Jew
Esther's cousin and guardian, who uncovers a plot against the king and later becomes a key figure in saving the Jews from destruction.

4. Haman
An Agagite and high-ranking official in the Persian Empire who plots to annihilate the Jews but is ultimately executed on the gallows he built for Mordecai.

5. The Gallows
A structure intended for Mordecai's execution, which becomes the instrument of Haman's demise, symbolizing poetic justice.

Teaching Points

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

Courage and Advocacy
Esther's courage to approach the king and advocate for her people is a model for standing up for righteousness and justice.

Providence and Sovereignty
The events in Esther highlight God's providence and sovereignty, orchestrating circumstances for the deliverance of His people.

Reversal of Fortunes
The account illustrates how God can reverse dire situations, turning curses into blessings for those who trust in Him.

Stewardship of Influence
Esther and Mordecai use their positions of influence for the good of others, teaching us to use our own influence wisely and selflessly.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Esther 8:7 demonstrate the concept of divine justice, and how can we trust in God's justice in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Esther's advocacy for her people inspire us to stand up for others today, and what are some practical ways we can do this?

3. How does the reversal of fortunes in Esther's account encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty during challenging times?

4. What lessons can we learn from Mordecai's faithfulness and integrity, and how can these qualities be applied in our daily interactions?

5. How can we use our positions of influence, whether great or small, to serve God's purposes and benefit others, as seen in the actions of Esther and Mordecai?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 50:20
The account of Joseph, where God turns intended harm into good, parallels how Haman's plot against the Jews is turned to their deliverance.

Proverbs 26:27
This proverb about those who dig a pit falling into it themselves reflects the fate of Haman, who is hanged on the gallows he built for Mordecai.

Romans 8:28
The assurance that God works all things for the good of those who love Him is evident in the reversal of the Jews' fortunes in Esther.