Topical Encyclopedia Pora'tha is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Esther, specifically in Esther 9:7. He is one of the ten sons of Haman, the Agagite, who is famously known as the adversary of the Jews during the reign of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) of Persia. Haman's plot to annihilate the Jewish people is a central theme in the Book of Esther, and his downfall is celebrated during the Jewish festival of Purim.Biblical Context In the narrative of Esther, Haman rises to a position of great power in the Persian Empire and harbors a deep-seated hatred for Mordecai, a Jew who refuses to bow to him. Haman's animosity extends to all Jews, and he devises a plan to destroy them throughout the empire. However, through the courage and intervention of Queen Esther, who is herself a Jew, the plot is exposed, and the king orders Haman's execution. Following Haman's death, Esther 9:7 records the fate of his ten sons, including Pora'tha: "They also killed Parshandatha, Dalphon, Aspatha, Poratha, Adalia, Aridatha, Parmashta, Arisai, Aridai, and Vaizatha." . These sons were executed on the same day as part of the Jews' defense against their enemies, as decreed by the king. Historical and Theological Significance The execution of Pora'tha and his brothers is significant in the context of divine justice and the protection of God's chosen people. The narrative underscores the theme of retributive justice, where the evil intentions of Haman and his household are turned back upon them. This event is seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to protect the descendants of Abraham and a demonstration of His sovereignty over the affairs of nations. The account of Pora'tha and his brothers also serves as a reminder of the consequences of pride and enmity against God's people. Haman's lineage, which sought to destroy the Jews, is itself destroyed, highlighting the biblical principle that those who curse God's people will themselves be cursed (Genesis 12:3). Cultural and Liturgical Observance The account of Pora'tha and his brothers is commemorated during the Jewish festival of Purim, which celebrates the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's plot. During the reading of the Megillah (the Book of Esther) in the synagogue, it is customary for the congregation to make noise with groggers (noisemakers) whenever Haman's name is mentioned, symbolizing the obliteration of his memory. In summary, Pora'tha, as one of Haman's sons, represents the ultimate defeat of those who oppose God's will and His people. His account is a testament to the enduring protection and justice provided by God to the Jewish nation, as well as a reminder of the perils of pride and hatred. Concordance Pora'tha (1 Occurrence)Esther 9:8 Thesaurus Pora'tha (1 Occurrence)Pora'tha. Poratha, Pora'tha. Porch . Multi-Version Concordance Pora'tha (1 Occurrence). Esther 9:8 and Poratha, and Adalia, and Aridatha, (See RSV). ... /p/pora'tha.htm - 6k Poratha (1 Occurrence) Porch (37 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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