Topical Bible: Women: Haman's Wife, in Advising Him to Hang Mordecai

◄ Women: Haman's Wife, in Advising Him to Hang Mordecai ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Haman's wife, Zeresh, is a figure mentioned in the Book of Esther, which is part of the Old Testament. Her role, though brief, is significant in the narrative of Esther, particularly in the events leading up to the downfall of her husband, Haman. Zeresh is introduced in the context of Haman's growing animosity towards Mordecai, a Jew who refuses to bow to him, which fuels Haman's desire for revenge.

Biblical Context:

Haman, an Agagite and a high-ranking official in the Persian Empire under King Xerxes, becomes incensed when Mordecai, a Jew, refuses to show him the customary respect by bowing. This slight becomes an obsession for Haman, who not only seeks to punish Mordecai but also plots to annihilate all the Jews in the empire. The narrative reaches a critical point when Haman, filled with rage, consults his wife Zeresh and his friends for advice on how to deal with Mordecai.

Zeresh's Counsel:

In Esther 5:14 , Zeresh offers her advice: "His wife Zeresh and all his friends told him, 'Have them build a gallows seventy-five feet high, and in the morning ask the king to have Mordecai hanged on it. Then go to the banquet with the king and enjoy yourself.' This suggestion delighted Haman, and he had the gallows constructed."

Zeresh's counsel is direct and ruthless, reflecting the cultural and personal vendettas of the time. Her suggestion to build an enormous gallows is indicative of the extremity of Haman's hatred and the lengths to which he is willing to go to see Mordecai punished. Zeresh's advice is not only a personal vendetta but also a strategic move to eliminate a perceived threat to her husband's honor and position.

Character Analysis:

Zeresh's role, though limited to this particular piece of advice, highlights the influence she wielded over Haman. Her suggestion is pivotal, as it sets in motion a series of events that ultimately lead to Haman's downfall. Zeresh's character can be seen as emblematic of the destructive power of pride and hatred. Her advice, while intended to secure her husband's position and satisfaction, ultimately contributes to his demise.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, Zeresh's involvement in the plot against Mordecai underscores the biblical theme of divine justice and the reversal of human schemes. The Book of Esther, though not explicitly mentioning God, illustrates the providential care and protection of the Jewish people. Zeresh's advice, which seems to promise success and satisfaction, is turned on its head as the narrative unfolds, demonstrating the futility of opposing God's plans.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the historical and cultural context of the Persian Empire, women like Zeresh may have had limited public roles, but they could exert significant influence within their households. Zeresh's advice to Haman reflects the dynamics of power and influence in ancient Persia, where personal vendettas and honor played crucial roles in decision-making processes.

Zeresh's account serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of pride, hatred, and the misuse of influence. Her advice, intended to bring about the downfall of Mordecai, instead becomes a catalyst for the deliverance of the Jewish people and the downfall of her own husband, Haman.

Nave's Topical Index

Esther 5:14
Then said Zeresh his wife and all his friends to him, Let a gallows be made of fifty cubits high, and to morrow speak you to the king that Mordecai may be hanged thereon: then go you in merrily with the king to the banquet. And the thing pleased Haman; and he caused the gallows to be made.
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Esther 6:13
And Haman told Zeresh his wife and all his friends every thing that had befallen him. Then said his wise men and Zeresh his wife to him, If Mordecai be of the seed of the Jews, before whom you have begun to fall, you shall not prevail against him, but shall surely fall before him.
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