Topical Encyclopedia Zeresh is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Esther, known primarily as the wife of Haman, the Agagite, who served as a high-ranking official in the Persian Empire under King Xerxes (Ahasuerus). Her account is intertwined with the narrative of Haman's rise to power and his subsequent downfall, as recorded in the Hebrew Scriptures.Biblical References: Zeresh is introduced in the Book of Esther, where she plays a significant role in advising her husband. Her presence is noted in several key passages: 1. Esther 5:10-14: After Haman leaves a banquet hosted by Queen Esther, he is filled with rage against Mordecai, a Jew who refuses to bow to him. Haman restrains himself and returns home to consult with his wife Zeresh and his friends. Zeresh, along with Haman's friends, suggests that he build a gallows seventy-five feet high and ask the king to have Mordecai hanged on it. This advice is intended to satisfy Haman's desire for revenge and to bolster his pride before attending another banquet with the king and queen. “His wife Zeresh and all his friends told him, ‘Have a gallows seventy-five feet high built, 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 pleased Haman, and he had the gallows constructed.” (Esther 5:14) 2. Esther 6:13: After a series of providential events, Haman is forced to honor Mordecai publicly, which marks the beginning of his downfall. Haman returns home, mourning and with his head covered, and recounts the events to Zeresh and his friends. Zeresh, recognizing the ominous turn of events, predicts Haman's impending doom, acknowledging the power of Mordecai's Jewish heritage. “His advisers and his wife Zeresh said to him, ‘Since Mordecai, before whom your downfall has begun, is of Jewish origin, you cannot stand against him—you will surely come to ruin!’” (Esther 6:13) Character Analysis: Zeresh is portrayed as a woman who is deeply involved in her husband's affairs, offering counsel that reflects both ambition and a lack of moral restraint. Her initial advice to build the gallows for Mordecai demonstrates a willingness to engage in schemes that align with Haman's pride and malice. However, her later recognition of the futility of opposing Mordecai, due to his Jewish identity, suggests an awareness of the divine favor that protects the Jewish people. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, Zeresh's role in the narrative of Esther highlights the theme of divine providence and the reversal of human schemes. Her advice to Haman, while initially appearing to advance his cause, ultimately contributes to his downfall. This serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that human plans are subject to the sovereign will of God, who protects His people and brings justice in His timing. Zeresh's acknowledgment of Mordecai's Jewish heritage as a factor in Haman's downfall underscores the biblical motif of God's covenantal faithfulness to Israel. Her account, though brief, is a testament to the unseen hand of God working through the events of history to fulfill His purposes and protect His chosen people. Nave's Topical Index Esther 5:10-14Nevertheless Haman refrained himself: and when he came home, he sent and called for his friends, and Zeresh his wife. Nave's Topical Index Esther 6:13 Strong's Hebrew 2238. Zeresh -- wife of Haman... NASB Word Usage Zeresh (4). Zeresh. Of Persian origin; Zeresh, Haman's wife -- Zeresh. 2237, 2238. Zeresh. 2239 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/2238.htm - 5k Library Concerning Esther and Mordecai and Haman; and How in the Reign of ... Queen Esther's Love for Her People Let Him Deliver Him Now Resources Who was Haman the Agagite? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Esther in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Is it true that everything happens for a reason? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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