The accusation against Haman is a pivotal event in the Book of Esther, a narrative that unfolds during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) of Persia. This event is central to the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot of annihilation orchestrated by Haman, the king's prime minister.

Background

Haman, an Agagite and a descendant of the Amalekites, held a position of great power in the Persian Empire. His animosity towards the Jews, particularly Mordecai, a Jew who refused to bow to him, led to his devising a plan to destroy all Jews throughout the kingdom. Haman's plot was sanctioned by King Xerxes, who, unaware of his queen's Jewish identity, issued a decree for the extermination of the Jews on the 13th day of the month of Adar.

The Accusation

The turning point in the narrative occurs during a banquet hosted by Queen Esther. Esther, having found favor in the eyes of the king, invites both King Xerxes and Haman to a series of banquets. It is during the second banquet that Esther reveals her Jewish identity and accuses Haman of plotting against her people. Esther 7:3-6 records her plea: "If I have found favor in your eyes, O king, and if it pleases the king, grant me my life as my petition, and my people as my request. For my people and I have been sold to destruction, death, and annihilation. If we had merely been sold as male and female slaves, I would have kept silent, for such distress would not be worth disturbing the king."

King Xerxes, shocked and enraged by this revelation, demands to know the identity of the perpetrator. Esther identifies Haman as the adversary and enemy. The king, in his wrath, leaves the banquet to the palace garden, while Haman, realizing his impending doom, pleads with Esther for his life.

The Downfall of Haman

Upon returning, the king finds Haman falling on the couch where Esther is reclining, which further incites his anger. Harbona, one of the king's eunuchs, informs the king of the gallows Haman had prepared for Mordecai. In a swift act of justice, King Xerxes orders Haman to be hanged on the very gallows he had constructed for Mordecai (Esther 7:9-10).

Significance

The accusation against Haman is a testament to divine providence and the reversal of fortunes. It highlights the courage and wisdom of Esther, who, through fasting and prayer, approaches the king with her request. The narrative underscores the theme of God's protection over His people, as well as the importance of standing against injustice. The downfall of Haman leads to the elevation of Mordecai and the issuance of a new decree that allows the Jews to defend themselves, ultimately leading to their deliverance and the establishment of the Feast of Purim as a commemoration of these events.