Esther 3:11

"Keep your money," said the king to Haman. "These people are given to you to do with them as you please."

Study Bible

“Keep your money,” said the king to Haman.
In this phrase, King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) responds to Haman's offer of silver to fund the destruction of the Jews. The king's dismissal of the monetary offer indicates his trust in Haman and possibly his indifference to the fate of the Jewish people. This reflects the absolute power and wealth of the Persian Empire, where the king's word was law, and financial incentives were not always necessary to enact decrees. The king's response also highlights the dangerous influence Haman held, as he was able to persuade the king without financial persuasion. This moment foreshadows the potential for misuse of power and the vulnerability of minority groups within the empire.

“These people are given to you”
The phrase "these people" refers to the Jewish population within the Persian Empire. Historically, the Jews were a dispersed people, having been exiled from their homeland. This dispersion is known as the Diaspora. The king's statement of giving the people to Haman underscores the precarious position of the Jews, who were subject to the whims of foreign rulers. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's people living in exile and facing persecution, as seen in other parts of the Old Testament, such as the Babylonian captivity. Theologically, this can be seen as a test of faith and reliance on God's providence.

“to do with them as you please.”
This phrase grants Haman full authority over the Jewish people, effectively giving him the power of life and death. It illustrates the absolute nature of royal decrees in the Persian Empire, where the king's word was final and irrevocable. This mirrors the absolute authority of God, contrasting human authority with divine sovereignty. Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ, where Jesus, though having all authority, chooses to use it for salvation rather than destruction. The phrase also sets the stage for the unfolding of God's deliverance through Esther, highlighting the theme of divine intervention and protection of His people, as seen throughout the biblical narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who ruled over 127 provinces from India to Cush. He is known for his opulence and for making impulsive decisions, such as the one in this verse.

2. Haman
The antagonist in the Book of Esther, an Agagite who held a high position in the Persian court. He harbored a deep hatred for the Jews, particularly Mordecai, and sought their destruction.

3. The Persian Empire
The setting of the Book of Esther, a vast and powerful empire known for its complex bureaucracy and diverse population.

4. The Decree
The event in which King Ahasuerus gives Haman the authority to annihilate the Jews, demonstrating the king's trust in Haman and the grave danger facing the Jewish people.

5. Mordecai
A Jew in the Persian Empire, cousin and guardian of Esther, who refused to bow to Haman, inciting Haman's wrath and the subsequent plot against the Jews.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Rash Decisions
King Ahasuerus's impulsive granting of power to Haman serves as a warning against making hasty decisions without seeking wise counsel or considering the consequences.

The Influence of Evil
Haman's manipulation of the king demonstrates how evil can influence those in power, reminding believers to pray for leaders and their decisions.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the dire situation, God's sovereignty is evident. Believers can trust that God is in control, even when circumstances seem bleak.

The Importance of Standing Firm
Mordecai's refusal to bow to Haman exemplifies the importance of standing firm in one's faith and convictions, regardless of the potential cost.

Intercession and Advocacy
Esther's eventual role as an advocate for her people encourages believers to intercede for others and use their positions to effect positive change.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from King Ahasuerus's decision to give Haman such power, and how can we apply this lesson to our decision-making processes?

2. How does Haman's plot against the Jews reflect the spiritual battles we face today, and what scriptures can we use to combat such threats?

3. In what ways does Mordecai's refusal to bow to Haman inspire us to stand firm in our faith, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

4. How does the account of Esther and the decree against the Jews illustrate God's sovereignty, and what other biblical examples reinforce this truth?

5. What role does intercession play in the account of Esther, and how can we incorporate intercessory prayer into our spiritual practices today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:3
God's promise to bless those who bless Abraham's descendants and curse those who curse them. This connection highlights the spiritual peril Haman faces in plotting against the Jews.

Proverbs 21:1
The heart of the king is in the hand of the Lord, illustrating that despite Ahasuerus's decision, God is ultimately in control.

Romans 8:28
God's ability to work all things for good for those who love Him, foreshadowing the eventual deliverance of the Jews through Esther's bravery.