Esther 8:7

So King Xerxes said to Esther the Queen and Mordecai the Jew, "Behold, I have given Haman's estate to Esther, and he was hanged on the gallows because he attacked the Jews.

Study Bible

So King Xerxes said to Esther the Queen and Mordecai the Jew
This phrase highlights the authority and decision-making power of King Xerxes, also known as Ahasuerus. Esther, as queen, holds a unique position of influence, which she uses to advocate for her people. Mordecai, identified as a Jew, signifies the importance of Jewish identity and heritage in the narrative. The mention of both Esther and Mordecai underscores their partnership and shared mission. This reflects the providential role they play in the deliverance of the Jewish people, reminiscent of other biblical figures who work together for God's purposes, such as Moses and Aaron.

Behold, I have given Haman’s estate to Esther
The transfer of Haman's estate to Esther signifies a reversal of fortune, a common theme in biblical narratives where the righteous are vindicated, and the wicked are punished. This act of giving Haman's estate to Esther not only compensates for the wrongs done but also empowers Esther to continue her advocacy for the Jewish people. It reflects the biblical principle of divine justice, where God often turns the plans of the wicked against them, as seen in the story of Joseph in Genesis 50:20.

and he was hanged on the gallows because he attacked the Jews
Haman's execution on the gallows he intended for Mordecai is a vivid example of poetic justice. This outcome serves as a warning against pride and plotting against God's people, echoing Proverbs 26:27, "Whoever digs a pit will fall into it." The gallows, likely a large wooden structure for impalement or hanging, symbolizes the ultimate downfall of those who oppose God's covenant people. This event foreshadows the ultimate victory of good over evil, a theme fulfilled in the New Testament through the triumph of Christ over sin and death.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Xerxes (Ahasuerus)
The Persian king who ruled over 127 provinces from India to Cush. He plays a pivotal role in the account of Esther, making decisions that impact the Jewish people.

2. Queen Esther
A Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia. Her bravery and faith are central to the deliverance of her people.

3. Mordecai the Jew
Esther's cousin and guardian, who uncovers a plot against the king and later becomes a key figure in saving the Jews from destruction.

4. Haman
An Agagite and high-ranking official in the Persian Empire who plots to annihilate the Jews but is ultimately executed on the gallows he built for Mordecai.

5. The Gallows
A structure intended for Mordecai's execution, which becomes the instrument of Haman's demise, symbolizing poetic justice.

Teaching Points

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

Courage and Advocacy
Esther's courage to approach the king and advocate for her people is a model for standing up for righteousness and justice.

Providence and Sovereignty
The events in Esther highlight God's providence and sovereignty, orchestrating circumstances for the deliverance of His people.

Reversal of Fortunes
The account illustrates how God can reverse dire situations, turning curses into blessings for those who trust in Him.

Stewardship of Influence
Esther and Mordecai use their positions of influence for the good of others, teaching us to use our own influence wisely and selflessly.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Esther 8:7 demonstrate the concept of divine justice, and how can we trust in God's justice in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Esther's advocacy for her people inspire us to stand up for others today, and what are some practical ways we can do this?

3. How does the reversal of fortunes in Esther's account encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty during challenging times?

4. What lessons can we learn from Mordecai's faithfulness and integrity, and how can these qualities be applied in our daily interactions?

5. How can we use our positions of influence, whether great or small, to serve God's purposes and benefit others, as seen in the actions of Esther and Mordecai?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 50:20
The account of Joseph, where God turns intended harm into good, parallels how Haman's plot against the Jews is turned to their deliverance.

Proverbs 26:27
This proverb about those who dig a pit falling into it themselves reflects the fate of Haman, who is hanged on the gallows he built for Mordecai.

Romans 8:28
The assurance that God works all things for the good of those who love Him is evident in the reversal of the Jews' fortunes in Esther.