Esther 5:14

His wife Zeresh and all his friends told him, "Have them build a gallows fifty cubits 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." The advice pleased Haman, and he had the gallows constructed.

Study Bible

His wife Zeresh and all his friends told him
Zeresh, Haman's wife, and his friends play a significant role in advising Haman, reflecting the cultural norm of seeking counsel from one's close circle. In ancient Persian society, family and friends were often involved in decision-making processes. This mirrors the biblical principle found in Proverbs 11:14, which emphasizes the importance of seeking counsel. However, the advice given here is morally corrupt, highlighting the danger of ungodly counsel.

“Have them build a gallows fifty cubits high
The gallows, likely a large wooden structure for impalement or hanging, was to be fifty cubits high, approximately 75 feet. This height signifies Haman's extreme pride and desire for public humiliation of Mordecai. The number fifty may also symbolize completeness or fullness in biblical numerology, indicating Haman's complete intent to destroy Mordecai. This act of building a gallows is reminiscent of the prideful actions of other biblical figures who sought to exalt themselves, such as Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 3.

and ask the king in the morning to have Mordecai hanged on it
Haman's plan to approach the king in the morning shows his eagerness and confidence in his influence over the king. This reflects the political dynamics of the Persian court, where access to the king was a sign of power. The plot against Mordecai is a direct attack on God's people, echoing the spiritual warfare seen throughout Scripture, such as in the story of Joseph and his brothers in Genesis 37.

Then go to the banquet with the king and enjoy yourself
Haman's intention to celebrate after Mordecai's execution reveals his callousness and self-centeredness. The banquet, a recurring theme in the Book of Esther, symbolizes the unfolding of God's providential plan. While Haman seeks to enjoy himself, the narrative foreshadows his downfall, aligning with the biblical principle that pride precedes destruction (Proverbs 16:18).

The advice pleased Haman, and he had the gallows constructed
Haman's satisfaction with the advice and his immediate action to construct the gallows demonstrate his hardened heart and determination to eliminate Mordecai. This reflects the biblical theme of the wicked plotting against the righteous, as seen in Psalm 37:12-13. The construction of the gallows sets the stage for the dramatic reversal of fortunes that is central to the story of Esther, illustrating God's sovereignty and justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Haman
A high-ranking official in the Persian Empire, known for his pride and hatred towards the Jews, particularly Mordecai.

2. Zeresh
Haman's wife, who advises him to build a gallows for Mordecai, showing her complicity in Haman's schemes.

3. Mordecai
A Jew living in Susa, who refuses to bow to Haman, inciting Haman's wrath.

4. The Gallows
A structure intended for Mordecai's execution, symbolizing Haman's malice and pride.

5. The Banquet
A feast prepared by Queen Esther, which plays a crucial role in the unfolding of events leading to Haman's downfall.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Pride
Haman's pride leads him to make irrational decisions. As Christians, we must guard against pride, which can cloud our judgment and lead to our downfall.

Influence of Counsel
Zeresh and Haman's friends encourage his wicked plans. We should seek godly counsel that aligns with biblical principles rather than advice that leads us away from God's will.

God's Sovereignty
Despite Haman's plans, God is in control and uses the situation to protect His people. Trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem dire.

The Consequences of Hatred
Haman's hatred for Mordecai consumes him and ultimately leads to his destruction. We must be vigilant against allowing hatred to take root in our hearts.

The Power of Patience and Faith
Mordecai's patience and faith in God contrast with Haman's impulsive actions. Trusting in God's timing is crucial for believers.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Haman's pride influence his decision-making, and what can we learn from this about the dangers of pride in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the counsel of Zeresh and Haman's friends impact his actions, and how can we ensure we are receiving godly counsel?

3. How does the account of Haman and Mordecai illustrate the biblical principle of reaping what one sows?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's sovereignty and His ability to use even the wicked plans of others for His purposes?

5. How can Mordecai's example of patience and faith encourage us in situations where we face opposition or injustice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 16:18
This verse speaks about pride leading to destruction, which is evident in Haman's account as his pride blinds him to the consequences of his actions.

Psalm 7:14-16
These verses describe how the wicked fall into the traps they set for others, paralleling Haman's fate.

Galatians 6:7
This verse about reaping what one sows is relevant to Haman's eventual downfall due to his own schemes.