Haman, the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, is a prominent figure in the Book of Esther, known for his rise to power and subsequent actions against the Jewish people. His account is primarily found in the Book of Esther, chapters 3 through 7. Haman's promotion and authority are central to the narrative, setting the stage for the dramatic events that unfold.

Promotion to Power

Haman's ascent to power is recorded in Esther 3:1: "After these events, King Xerxes honored Haman son of Hammedatha the Agagite, elevating him and giving him a seat of honor higher than that of all the other nobles." This promotion places Haman in a position of significant influence within the Persian Empire, second only to King Xerxes himself. The text highlights the king's favor towards Haman, which is pivotal for the unfolding of the plot against the Jews.

Authority and Influence

With his newfound authority, Haman exercises considerable influence over the affairs of the kingdom. Esther 3:2 notes, "All the royal officials at the king’s gate knelt down and paid honor to Haman, for the king had commanded this concerning him." This command underscores the extent of Haman's power, as he is accorded reverence and submission by the king's servants and officials.

Haman's authority is further demonstrated by his ability to manipulate the king's decrees. In Esther 3:8-9, Haman presents a case to King Xerxes against the Jews, saying, "There is a certain people dispersed and scattered among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom whose customs are different from those of all other people and who do not obey the king’s laws; it is not in the king’s best interest to tolerate them. If it pleases the king, let a decree be issued to destroy them, and I will give ten thousand talents of silver to the king’s administrators for the royal treasury." Haman's proposal, motivated by personal vendetta against Mordecai and the Jewish people, is accepted by the king, who gives Haman his signet ring to seal the decree (Esther 3:10).

The Decree Against the Jews

The decree authorized by Haman is a chilling testament to his authority. Esther 3:13 details the edict: "Dispatches were sent by couriers to all the king’s provinces with the order to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews—young and old, women and children—on a single day, the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, the month of Adar, and to plunder their goods." This decree, sealed with the king's ring, demonstrates the extent of Haman's power to influence the fate of an entire people.

Haman's Hubris and Downfall

Haman's authority is marked by his pride and arrogance, which ultimately lead to his downfall. His animosity towards Mordecai, who refuses to bow to him, fuels his desire for revenge against all Jews. Haman's hubris is evident in Esther 5:11-12, where he boasts to his friends and wife about his wealth, many sons, and the honors bestowed upon him by the king, including a private banquet with Queen Esther.

However, Haman's authority is not absolute, as it is subject to the will of God and the unfolding of divine providence. His plot is ultimately thwarted through the courage and wisdom of Queen Esther and the intervention of Mordecai. Haman's downfall is sealed when he is hanged on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai (Esther 7:10).

Haman's account serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of pride and the sovereignty of God in the affairs of men, illustrating how human authority is ultimately subordinate to divine will.