Esther 7:9

Then Harbonah, one of the eunuchs attending the king, said: "There is a gallows fifty cubits high at Haman's house. He had it built for Mordecai, who gave the report that saved the king." "Hang him on it!" declared the king.

Study Bible

Then Harbonah, one of the eunuchs attending the king, said:
Harbonah is one of the king's eunuchs, a position of trust and responsibility in the Persian court. Eunuchs often served as close advisors or attendants to royalty, indicating Harbonah's proximity to the king and his influence. This moment highlights the role of divine providence, as Harbonah's timely intervention contributes to the unfolding of justice. The mention of a eunuch also reflects the Persian Empire's administrative structure, where such individuals were often employed in high-ranking positions.

“There is a gallows fifty cubits high at Haman’s house.
The gallows, or more accurately a stake for impalement, is described as being fifty cubits high, approximately 75 feet. This extraordinary height signifies Haman's pride and his desire to make a public spectacle of Mordecai's execution. The location at Haman's house underscores his personal vendetta against Mordecai. The use of such a structure for execution was common in ancient Persia, intended to serve as a deterrent and a display of power.

He had it built for Mordecai,
Haman's intent to execute Mordecai on this gallows is a direct result of his anger and hatred towards Mordecai, who refused to bow to him. This reflects the theme of retribution and the reversal of fortunes, as Haman's plans for Mordecai ultimately lead to his own downfall. The narrative demonstrates the biblical principle that those who plot evil against others often fall into their own traps (Proverbs 26:27).

who gave the report that saved the king.”
Mordecai's earlier act of loyalty in uncovering a plot against King Xerxes is crucial to the story. This act of faithfulness is rewarded, aligning with the biblical theme of divine justice and protection for those who honor God. Mordecai's report is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the king's favor towards him, contrasting with Haman's treachery.

“Hang him on it!” declared the king.
The king's swift decision to execute Haman on the very gallows intended for Mordecai illustrates the theme of poetic justice. This moment is a turning point in the narrative, where the wicked are punished, and the righteous are vindicated. It reflects the biblical assurance that God will ultimately bring justice and that the plans of the wicked will not prevail (Psalm 37:12-13). The king's declaration also signifies the irreversible nature of Persian royal decrees, emphasizing the finality of Haman's fate.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Esther
The Jewish queen of Persia who courageously intervenes to save her people from destruction.

2. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who is manipulated by Haman but ultimately sides with Esther.

3. Haman
The antagonist who plots to annihilate the Jews but faces his downfall in this chapter.

4. Harbona
One of the king's eunuchs who informs the king about the gallows Haman built for Mordecai.

5. The Gallows
A structure Haman built to execute Mordecai, which ultimately becomes the instrument of his own execution.

Teaching Points

Divine Justice
God's justice prevails even when evil seems to have the upper hand. Haman's fate is a reminder that God sees and acts in His timing.

Courage and Advocacy
Esther's bravery in speaking up for her people is a model for standing up for righteousness and justice.

The Consequences of Pride
Haman's downfall is a stark warning against pride and plotting evil against others.

God's Sovereignty
The events in Esther demonstrate God's control over history and His ability to turn situations around for His purposes.

The Role of Providence
The seemingly coincidental events, like Harbona's timely information, highlight God's providential care for His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Esther 7:9 illustrate the principle of "reaping what you sow," and how can this principle be applied in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does Esther's courage inspire you to stand up for what is right in your own context?

3. How does the account of Haman's downfall serve as a warning against pride and plotting evil? Can you think of a modern example where this principle applies?

4. Reflect on a time when you have seen God's providence at work in your life or the lives of others. How does this encourage you in your faith journey?

5. How can the account of Esther and the events of chapter 7 encourage believers to trust in God's justice and timing, even when circumstances seem dire?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 26:27
This verse speaks to the principle of reaping what one sows, which is evident in Haman's fate.

Psalm 7:15-16
These verses describe how the wicked fall into the pits they dig for others, paralleling Haman's downfall.

Galatians 6:7
This New Testament verse reinforces the idea of sowing and reaping, applicable to Haman's account.

Daniel 6
The account of Daniel in the lion's den shows another instance of God delivering His faithful servants from plots against them.