Esther 9:10

They killed these ten sons of Haman son of Hammedatha, the enemy of the Jews, but they did not lay a hand on the plunder.

Study Bible

They killed these ten sons of Haman son of Hammedatha
The execution of Haman's ten sons signifies the complete downfall of Haman's lineage, which had sought to annihilate the Jewish people. Haman, an Agagite, is often linked to the Amalekites, ancient enemies of Israel (Exodus 17:8-16). The destruction of his sons fulfills the divine justice against those who oppose God's chosen people. This act can be seen as a continuation of the conflict between Israel and Amalek, as commanded in Deuteronomy 25:17-19. The number ten may symbolize completeness, indicating the total eradication of Haman's influence.

the enemy of the Jews
Haman is repeatedly identified as the enemy of the Jews, emphasizing his role as an antagonist in the narrative. This enmity is rooted in historical animosities, as the Amalekites were among the first to attack the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. The term "enemy" underscores the spiritual and physical threat Haman posed, reflecting the broader theme of anti-Semitism throughout history. This phrase also highlights the providential protection of the Jewish people, a recurring theme in the book of Esther.

but they did not lay a hand on the plunder
The decision not to take the plunder is significant, as it demonstrates the Jews' motives were not driven by greed but by self-defense and justice. This restraint mirrors the command given to King Saul in 1 Samuel 15, where he was instructed to destroy the Amalekites and not take any spoils. Saul's failure to obey led to his downfall, contrasting with the Jews' obedience in Esther, which results in their deliverance. This act of self-control also aligns with the biblical principle of trusting God for provision and justice, rather than relying on material gain.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Haman
The antagonist in the Book of Esther, Haman was an Agagite and a high-ranking official in the Persian Empire who plotted to annihilate the Jews.

2. The Ten Sons of Haman
These were the offspring of Haman, who shared in his enmity against the Jews and were killed as part of the Jews' defense against their enemies.

3. The Jews
The people of God living in the Persian Empire who were targeted for destruction by Haman's decree but were saved through Esther's intervention.

4. Susa
The capital of the Persian Empire where much of the account of Esther takes place, including the events of Esther 9.

5. The Plunder
Refers to the goods and possessions of the enemies that the Jews refrained from taking, despite having the right to do so.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God’s Commands
The Jews' decision not to take the plunder reflects a commitment to God's commands and a focus on justice rather than material gain.

Divine Justice and Protection
The account illustrates God's providential care and justice for His people, encouraging believers to trust in God's timing and methods.

Restraint and Integrity
By not taking the plunder, the Jews demonstrated integrity and restraint, setting an example for believers to act righteously even when given the opportunity for personal gain.

Historical Continuity of God's Plan
The events in Esther 9 are part of a larger account of God's faithfulness to His covenant people, reminding believers of the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the decision of the Jews not to take the plunder reveal about their priorities and values? How can this inform our own decisions when faced with ethical dilemmas?

2. How does the account of Haman and his sons connect to the broader biblical account of the conflict between Israel and the Amalekites? What lessons can we draw about the consequences of disobedience to God?

3. In what ways does the restraint shown by the Jews in Esther 9:10 reflect the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament about loving our enemies and seeking peace?

4. How can we apply the principle of leaving vengeance to God in our own lives, especially when we face injustice or persecution?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to choose between material gain and doing what was right. How did your faith influence your decision, and what was the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 15
The account of King Saul's incomplete obedience in dealing with the Amalekites, from whom Haman descended, provides a historical backdrop to the enmity between the Jews and Haman.

Exodus 17:14-16
God's command to Moses to blot out the memory of Amalek, which connects to the ongoing conflict between the Israelites and the Amalekites, represented by Haman.

Romans 12:19
The principle of leaving vengeance to God, which is exemplified by the Jews' restraint in not taking the plunder.