v. 1 – After the 3-day fast – Esther
dressed up and went to the King.
She entered the King’s presence unannounced (a violation of their law punishable by death)
She waited for acknowledgement by the King.
v. 2 – King Xerxes receives her – she
was beautiful and God prepared everything for this moment. His weakness was her
beauty. She is accepted into his presence.
v. 3 – The King is concerned for her need –
causing her to break the law and risk her life for it
- it will be granted – assurance from the King.
- up to half the kingdom – not literal – oriental tradition (Mk. 6:23)
v. 4 – she does not reveal her request yet
– but invites him to a feast and Haman too.
v. 5-6 – Haman is summoned – his pride
wells up – blinding pride.
The two men attended Esther’s banquet
The King again asks her request (with assurance).
v. 7-8 – She stalls the request again –
2nd invitation to a banquet
- Then she will make petition and request known
v. 9-10 – Haman – very proud of himself
and happy – honored by the King and Queen – invited to private banquets (key player)
- he leaves excited – then sees “Mordecai the Jew”
- Mordecai last – in sackcloth and ashes, wailing, mourning
- Now – back to arrogant old self – doesn’t honor Haman
(who is highly honored by the King and Queen).
v. 11-12 – He goes home – to brag and
to complain
- his wife and friends to share his greatness with
- and tomorrow again he is invited to the private party of the king and queen
- no one else is invited (special honor) – (be careful if alone)
v. 13 – Haman is hung-up on Mordecai - -one
Jew is destroying his joy – with all he had to be happy about – he’s tortured.
v. 14 – His wife and friends suggest he “squash
the bug” - - have a gallows built and hang Mordecai – The King will surely approve this request.
- Haman is important, honored, powerful – has the King’s signet
- If he’s so prestigious – eliminate the problem – don’t suffer – fix it .
