Arisai is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Esther, specifically in Esther 9:9. He is identified as one of the ten sons of Haman, the Agagite, who was an enemy of the Jews during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia. Haman is infamously known for his plot to annihilate the Jewish people throughout the Persian Empire, a plan that was ultimately thwarted by Queen Esther and her cousin Mordecai.

Biblical Context

The narrative of Arisai and his family is set against the backdrop of the Jewish festival of Purim, which commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's genocidal scheme. Haman, who held a high position in the Persian court, harbored intense animosity towards the Jews, particularly Mordecai, who refused to bow to him. This personal vendetta escalated into a decree to destroy all Jews in the empire.

In Esther 9:9, Arisai is listed among the sons of Haman who were killed by the Jews in Susa, the capital of the Persian Empire, as part of the Jews' self-defense authorized by a counter-decree from King Ahasuerus. The verse reads: "Parmashta, Arisai, Aridai, and Vaizatha."

Historical and Theological Significance

The account of Arisai and his brothers serves as a testament to the providence and protection of God over His chosen people. The downfall of Haman and his sons is seen as a divine reversal of fortune, where the intended victims of Haman's plot were instead granted victory over their enemies. This theme of divine justice and deliverance is central to the celebration of Purim, which is observed with joy and feasting as a reminder of God's faithfulness.

From a historical perspective, the account of Arisai and his family highlights the precarious position of the Jewish diaspora in ancient empires, where they often faced existential threats. The narrative underscores the importance of faith, courage, and the willingness to stand against evil, as exemplified by Esther and Mordecai.

Genealogical and Cultural Considerations

Arisai, as a son of Haman, is part of a lineage that traces back to Agag, the king of the Amalekites, who were long-standing enemies of Israel. This connection is significant in understanding the deep-seated enmity between Haman and the Jewish people, as the Amalekites were historically known for their opposition to Israel, dating back to the time of the Exodus.

In Jewish tradition, the names of Haman's ten sons, including Arisai, are read aloud during the public recitation of the Megillah (the Book of Esther) on Purim. This practice serves as a symbolic act of erasing the memory of those who sought to destroy the Jewish people, in accordance with the biblical command to blot out the memory of Amalek (Deuteronomy 25:19).

Conclusion

While Arisai himself is a minor character in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the list of Haman's sons underscores the broader themes of the Book of Esther: the triumph of good over evil, the reversal of fortunes, and the enduring protection of God over His people. The account of Arisai and his family continues to resonate within the Jewish and Christian traditions as a powerful reminder of divine justice and deliverance.Esther 9:9
And Parmashta, and Arisai, and Aridai, and Vajezatha,
Nave's Topical Index

747b. Arisay -- a son of Haman
... a son of Haman. Transliteration: Arisay Short Definition: Arisai. Word Origin of
foreign origin Definition a son of Haman NASB Word Usage Arisai (1). ...
/hebrew/747b.htm - 5k

747. Ariycay -- region of light
... Short Definition: Arisai. Arisai Of Persian origin; Arisai, a son of Haman --
Arisai. 746b, 747. Ariycay. 747a . Strong's Numbers.
/hebrew/747.htm - 5k

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