Haman's Plan to Hang Mordecai
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Background:
Haman, an Agagite and a high-ranking official in the Persian Empire under King Xerxes (Ahasuerus), is a central antagonist in the Book of Esther. His animosity towards Mordecai, a Jew, and cousin to Queen Esther, is a pivotal element in the narrative. Mordecai's refusal to bow to Haman incites the latter's wrath, leading to a plot not only against Mordecai but against all Jews in the empire.

The Plot Against Mordecai:
Haman's plan to hang Mordecai is detailed in Esther 5:9-14. After being honored by the king at a banquet hosted by Queen Esther, Haman leaves in high spirits. However, upon seeing Mordecai at the king's gate, who neither rises nor shows fear in his presence, Haman is filled with rage. Despite his anger, he restrains himself and returns home to consult with his wife Zeresh and friends.

In Esther 5:14 , it is recorded: "His wife Zeresh and all his friends told him, 'Have a gallows built, seventy-five feet high, and ask the king in the morning to have Mordecai hanged on it. Then go to the banquet with the king and enjoy yourself.' This suggestion delighted Haman, and he had the gallows constructed."

Significance of the Gallows:
The gallows, or more accurately a stake for impalement, was intended to be a public and humiliating execution method. The height of the gallows, seventy-five feet, underscores Haman's desire to make an example of Mordecai, displaying his power and the consequences of defying him.

Divine Providence:
Haman's plan to hang Mordecai is thwarted by a series of divinely orchestrated events. The night before Haman intends to request Mordecai's execution, King Xerxes experiences a sleepless night and orders the book of chronicles to be read to him. He is reminded of Mordecai's earlier act of loyalty in uncovering a plot against the king's life (Esther 6:1-3). This leads to Mordecai being honored by the king, ironically by Haman himself, who is forced to parade Mordecai through the city (Esther 6:10-11).

Outcome:
Haman's plan ultimately backfires. At the second banquet hosted by Esther, she reveals her Jewish identity and Haman's plot to annihilate her people. King Xerxes, enraged by Haman's treachery, orders that Haman be executed on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai (Esther 7:9-10).

Theological Implications:
Haman's plan to hang Mordecai highlights themes of divine justice and providence. Despite the apparent power and influence of Haman, God's sovereignty is evident as He protects His people and turns the schemes of the wicked against them. This narrative serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant people and His ability to deliver them from seemingly insurmountable threats.
Haman's Mourning
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