Aspatha is one of the ten sons of Haman, a prominent antagonist in the Book of Esther. Haman, an Agagite, served as a high-ranking official in the Persian Empire under King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I). The narrative of Haman and his family is primarily found in the Book of Esther, which is set during the Jewish exile in Persia.

Biblical Context

Aspatha is mentioned specifically in Esther 9:7, where the ten sons of Haman are named. The context of this passage is the aftermath of Haman's plot to annihilate the Jewish people throughout the Persian Empire. Haman's scheme was thwarted by Queen Esther, a Jewess, and her cousin Mordecai, who had uncovered the plot and gained the favor of King Ahasuerus.

The king issued a decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies. On the day that was originally set for their destruction, the Jews instead gained victory over those who sought their harm. Esther 9:5-10 describes the Jews' triumph: "The Jews struck down all their enemies with the sword, killing and destroying them, and they did as they pleased to those who hated them. In the citadel of Susa, the Jews killed and destroyed five hundred men, including Parshandatha, Dalphon, Aspatha, Poratha, Adalia, Aridatha, Parmashta, Arisai, Aridai, and Vaizatha, the ten sons of Haman son of Hammedatha, the enemy of the Jews. But they did not lay a hand on the plunder."

Historical and Theological Significance

Aspatha, along with his brothers, represents the continuation of Haman's enmity against the Jewish people. The execution of Haman's sons is seen as a fulfillment of divine justice, as they were part of the lineage that sought to destroy God's chosen people. The narrative underscores the theme of divine providence and protection over the Jewish nation, as well as the reversal of fortunes for those who oppose God's plans.

The account of Aspatha and his brothers also highlights the importance of the Jewish festival of Purim, which commemorates the deliverance of the Jews from Haman's plot. The festival is celebrated with joy and feasting, as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the triumph of good over evil.

Cultural and Literary Aspects

In the broader cultural and literary context, the account of Aspatha and his family serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride, hatred, and plotting against God's people. Haman's downfall and the subsequent destruction of his lineage illustrate the biblical principle that those who dig a pit for others may fall into it themselves (Proverbs 26:27).

The Book of Esther, where Aspatha is mentioned, is unique in the biblical canon for its lack of direct reference to God. However, the unfolding events and the deliverance of the Jewish people are seen as evidence of God's unseen hand at work, orchestrating events for the preservation of His people.

Genealogical Note

Aspatha's father, Haman, is identified as an Agagite, which may suggest a connection to Agag, the king of the Amalekites, a long-standing enemy of Israel. This connection further emphasizes the historical enmity between the descendants of Esau (Amalekites) and the Israelites, as seen throughout the Old Testament narrative.Esther 9:7
And Parshandatha, and Dalphon, and Aspatha,
Nave's Topical Index

630. Aspatha -- a son of Haman
... a son of Haman. Transliteration: Aspatha Phonetic Spelling: (as-paw-thaw' of Persian
derivation; Aspatha, a son of Haman -- Aspatha.) Short Definition: Aspatha. ...
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