Esther 8:5

"If it pleases the king," she said, "and if I have found favor in his sight, and the matter seems proper to the king, and I am pleasing in his sight, may an order be written to revoke the letters that the scheming Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, wrote to destroy the Jews in all the king's provinces.

Study Bible

"If it pleases the king," she said,
This phrase reflects the formal and respectful approach required in the Persian court. Esther's approach is strategic, acknowledging the king's authority and seeking his goodwill. This mirrors the cultural norms of ancient Persia, where subjects had to approach the king with humility and deference. It also highlights Esther's wisdom and tact in navigating the political landscape.

"and if I have found favor in his sight,"
Finding favor in the king's sight is crucial for Esther's request. This phrase underscores the importance of personal relationships and favor in ancient Near Eastern courts. Esther's favor with the king is a recurring theme, as seen earlier when she was chosen as queen (Esther 2:17). It also reflects the biblical theme of divine favor, as seen in figures like Joseph (Genesis 39:4) and Daniel (Daniel 1:9).

"and the matter seems proper to the king,"
Esther appeals to the king's sense of justice and propriety. This phrase suggests that the king's decision should align with what is right and just. It reflects the biblical principle of justice, as seen in Proverbs 21:3, which emphasizes doing what is right and just as more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.

"and I am pleasing in his sight,"
Reiterating her favor with the king, Esther emphasizes her personal relationship with him. This phrase highlights the importance of personal influence in achieving political goals. It also reflects the biblical theme of intercession, where individuals like Moses (Exodus 32:11-14) and Abraham (Genesis 18:22-33) use their relationship with God to intercede for others.

"may an order be written to revoke the letters"
Esther requests a formal decree to counteract Haman's edict. This reflects the irreversible nature of Persian laws, as seen in Daniel 6:8, where laws once written could not be altered. Esther's request for a new decree shows her understanding of the legal system and her strategic thinking.

"that the scheming Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, wrote"
Haman is identified as an Agagite, linking him to the Amalekites, ancient enemies of Israel (Exodus 17:8-16). This connection highlights the ongoing conflict between Israel and Amalek, fulfilling the prophecy of enmity between the two nations (Deuteronomy 25:17-19). Haman's scheming nature is a reminder of the spiritual battle against evil, as seen in Ephesians 6:12.

"to destroy the Jews in all the king’s provinces."
The threat against the Jews is a central theme in Esther, reflecting the historical reality of anti-Semitism. The widespread nature of the decree highlights the vastness of the Persian Empire, which stretched from India to Ethiopia (Esther 1:1). This phrase underscores the vulnerability of the Jewish people and the need for divine intervention, as seen in God's promises to protect Israel (Isaiah 41:10-13).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Esther
The Jewish queen of Persia who bravely intercedes for her people. Her courage and wisdom are central to the account.

2. King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I)
The Persian king who holds the power to reverse the edict against the Jews. His favor towards Esther is crucial for the salvation of the Jewish people.

3. Haman
The antagonist whose plot to destroy the Jews sets the stage for Esther's intercession. Though not directly mentioned in this verse, his actions are the catalyst for the events.

4. Mordecai
Esther's cousin and guardian, who plays a significant role in advising Esther and later becomes a prominent figure in the Persian Empire.

5. Susa (Shushan)
The capital of the Persian Empire where these events unfold, highlighting the political and cultural backdrop of the account.

Teaching Points

The Power of Intercession
Esther's approach to the king demonstrates the importance and power of intercessory prayer and action. Believers are encouraged to intercede for others, trusting in God's sovereignty.

Courage in the Face of Injustice
Esther's boldness in addressing the king about the unjust decree against her people is a call for Christians to stand against injustice and advocate for righteousness.

Divine Providence
The unfolding events in Esther's account highlight God's providence. Believers can trust that God is at work even when His presence is not overtly visible.

Wisdom in Action
Esther's careful and respectful approach to the king teaches the importance of wisdom and tact in difficult situations.

The Role of Favor
Esther finds favor with the king, reminding believers that God's favor can open doors and change hearts in seemingly impossible situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Esther's approach to King Ahasuerus in Esther 8:5 demonstrate the importance of humility and respect in making requests? Reflect on how this can be applied in your own life when approaching authority figures.

2. In what ways does Esther's account encourage you to trust in God's providence, even when His presence is not immediately apparent? Can you think of a situation in your life where you have seen this principle at work?

3. How can Esther's courage in advocating for her people inspire you to stand up for justice and righteousness in your community or workplace?

4. Consider the role of intercession in Esther's actions. How can you incorporate intercessory prayer into your daily life for those who are facing difficult situations?

5. Reflect on a time when you have experienced God's favor in a challenging situation. How did it change the outcome, and how can you seek God's favor in your current circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 50:20
The account of Joseph, where God turns intended harm into good, parallels Esther's account where God uses Esther to save the Jews from destruction.

Romans 8:28
This verse speaks to God's ability to work all things for good for those who love Him, similar to how God orchestrates events in Esther for the deliverance of His people.

Proverbs 21:1
The heart of the king is in the hand of the Lord, illustrating how God influences King Ahasuerus to favor Esther's request.