Esther 6:4

"Who is in the court?" the king asked. Now Haman had just entered the outer court of the palace to ask the king to hang Mordecai on the gallows he had prepared for him.

Study Bible

“Who is in the court?” the king asked.
This phrase occurs during a pivotal moment in the Book of Esther. The king, Ahasuerus, is seeking counsel or assistance, which is a common practice for Persian kings who often relied on their advisors for decision-making. The court refers to the area where officials and those seeking an audience with the king would wait. This setting highlights the structured hierarchy and protocol of the Persian Empire, where access to the king was controlled and required permission. The king's inquiry sets the stage for a dramatic reversal of fortunes, a theme prevalent throughout the book.

Now Haman had just entered the outer court of the palace
Haman's presence in the outer court signifies his high status, as only those with significant influence could approach the king's court. The outer court was a place where officials and petitioners would wait, indicating Haman's eagerness to execute his plan against Mordecai. This moment is rich with irony, as Haman's intentions are about to be thwarted by divine providence. The timing of Haman's entrance is crucial, as it aligns with the king's sleepless night and the reading of the chronicles, which reminded the king of Mordecai's loyalty.

to ask the king to hang Mordecai on the gallows he had prepared for him.
Haman's plot against Mordecai is a personal vendetta rooted in Mordecai's refusal to bow to him, which Haman perceived as a grave insult. The gallows, likely a tall wooden structure for impalement or hanging, symbolizes Haman's pride and malice. This method of execution was intended to be a public spectacle, reflecting the severe consequences of defying royal authority. The irony is profound, as the gallows prepared for Mordecai ultimately become the instrument of Haman's own demise. This reversal is a key element of the narrative, illustrating the biblical principle that those who plot evil will often fall into their own traps (Proverbs 26:27). The story of Esther, including this moment, is seen as a type of Christ, where deliverance comes through unexpected means, and the plans of the wicked are overturned by divine intervention.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who ruled over 127 provinces from India to Cush. He is central to the events in the Book of Esther, often depicted as a ruler swayed by his advisors.

2. Haman
The antagonist of the account, an Agagite and high-ranking official in the Persian Empire. He harbors a deep hatred for Mordecai and the Jewish people, plotting their destruction.

3. Mordecai
A Jew in Susa, the capital of Persia, and cousin to Queen Esther. He previously saved the king from an assassination plot, which becomes pivotal in this chapter.

4. The Outer Court of the Palace
The location where Haman enters to seek the king's permission to execute Mordecai. This setting is crucial as it sets the stage for the reversal of Haman's plans.

5. The Gallows
A structure Haman had built to execute Mordecai. It symbolizes Haman's pride and malicious intent, which ultimately leads to his downfall.

Teaching Points

Divine Providence
God's unseen hand is at work, orchestrating events for His purposes. Even when God is not mentioned, His providence is evident in the timing and outcomes of events.

The Reversal of Fortunes
The account of Esther highlights how God can reverse situations, turning intended harm into blessing for His people.

The Dangers of Pride
Haman's downfall is a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of pride and the importance of humility before God and others.

The Importance of Righteousness
Mordecai's integrity and faithfulness are rewarded, reminding believers to remain steadfast in righteousness.

God's Justice
The account assures believers that God sees injustice and will act in His timing to bring about justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the timing of Haman's entrance into the court demonstrate God's providence in the account of Esther?

2. In what ways does the account of Haman and Mordecai illustrate the biblical principle that pride comes before a fall?

3. How can we apply the concept of divine reversals in our own lives when facing difficult situations?

4. What lessons can we learn from Mordecai's character and actions that can be applied to our daily walk with God?

5. How does the account of Esther 6:4 encourage us to trust in God's justice, even when we face opposition or injustice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 16:18
This verse speaks about pride leading to destruction, which is exemplified in Haman's account.

Genesis 50:20
Joseph's words about God turning evil intentions into good can be related to how God uses Haman's plot to elevate Mordecai.

Psalm 37:12-13
These verses describe how the wicked plot against the righteous, but the Lord laughs, knowing their day is coming, paralleling Haman's fate.