Topical Encyclopedia Amadathus is a figure mentioned in the apocryphal additions to the Book of Esther, specifically in the Greek version known as the Septuagint. In this version, Amadathus is identified as the father of Haman, the antagonist in the account of Esther. The Hebrew Masoretic Text, which forms the basis for most Protestant Old Testament translations, does not include the name Amadathus, instead referring to Haman as the son of Hammedatha (Esther 3:1: "After these events, King Xerxes honored Haman son of Hammedatha the Agagite, elevating him and giving him a seat of honor higher than that of all the other nobles.").The name Amadathus is likely a transliteration of the Hebrew name Hammedatha, reflecting the linguistic and cultural adaptations present in the Septuagint. This Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures was widely used in the Hellenistic Jewish community and later by early Christians, which accounts for the variations in names and details found in the text. In the narrative of Esther, Haman, the son of Amadathus (or Hammedatha), is portrayed as a high-ranking official in the Persian Empire under King Xerxes (Ahasuerus). Haman's animosity towards the Jewish people, particularly Mordecai, a Jew who refused to bow to him, sets the stage for the dramatic events that unfold in the book. Haman's plot to annihilate the Jews is ultimately thwarted by Queen Esther and Mordecai, leading to Haman's downfall and execution. The identification of Haman as an "Agagite" (Esther 3:1) has led to various interpretations regarding his ancestry. Some scholars suggest that this term connects Haman to Agag, the king of the Amalekites, a people historically hostile to Israel (1 Samuel 15:8). This connection would further emphasize the longstanding enmity between the Israelites and the Amalekites, adding a layer of historical and theological significance to the narrative. The account of Esther, including the role of Haman son of Amadathus, is celebrated annually in the Jewish festival of Purim. This festival commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's plot, as recounted in the Book of Esther. The narrative highlights themes of divine providence, the reversal of fortunes, and the courage of individuals who stand for righteousness in the face of evil. While Amadathus himself is not a central figure in the biblical narrative, his mention in the Septuagint underscores the textual variations and interpretive traditions that have shaped the understanding of the Book of Esther throughout history. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia AMADATHA; AMADATHUSa-mad'-a-tha, a-mad'-a-thus (Additions to Esther 12:6). See AMAN; HAMMEDATHA. Thesaurus Amadathus... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia AMADATHA; AMADATHUS. a-mad'-a-tha, a-mad'-a-thus (Additions to Esther 12:6). See AMAN; HAMMEDATHA. ... /a/amadathus.htm - 6k Amadatha Amain Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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