When an Enemy Rises to Leadership: Hatred is a Hungry Beast
Just when you think the plot’s thick enough, the drama is raised to a new level in Susa. Hatred is a hungry beast and we are about to see an enemy attempt to devour God’s people.
Print the notes for this lesson: Chapter 3 Printable
Terrorism is a hot topic in our world, [Click to Tweet] And since 9/11 we’ve seen increased security all around us. Once lives are threatened the stakes are higher than ever to protect from attacks, no matter the cost.
This is exactly what’s happening as we begin chapter three of our Esther drama. Mordecai foils a plot to assassinate the King. The King promotes Haman, giving him authority over all the princes. Haman is now the King’s most trusted officer and overseer – meant to keep the king safe from any further attacks on the king’s life.
The prestige and power goes straight to Haman’s head as everyone bows down to him. He has absolute power over the kingdom… except for Mordecai who refuses to bow before him.
We have to ask why this angered Haman so much. So let’s do a little sleuthing to uncover the root of his hatred, a hatred that spurs Haman to punish not only Mordecai, but to destroy all of the Jews in the kingdom.
Haman’s anger and hatred against the Jews is rooted in a blood feud. Like Romeo and Juliet’s families, Haman is out for revenge because…
Hatred is a Hungry Beast [Click to Tweet]
Haman’s hatred of the Jews ignites his maniacal imagination. He casts pur – like casting a lot or dice to determine the time of the Jews’ destruction. It’s nothing short of pre-meditated murder. It’s interesting to note that Haman makes plans before he weaves a tale to get the King on board. Clearly the King’s consent was a benefit but not necessary in Haman’s thoughts.
Haman entangles the King in his web of deceit by telling him about ‘certain people’ who are:
Scattered throughout the kingdom
Bound by different laws
Not observing the king’s laws
Haman is smooth and continues to bait the hook, waiting for the king to bite. He assures the king that it’s not in the king’s interest to let them live.
And, then he casts the line and says, “If it pleases the King let it be decreed that they be destroyed.” He even offers to pay 10,000 talents of silver to the king’s treasury, which was ravaged after his loss against Greece. Just the thing to seal the king’s approval.
An interesting note: the yearly taxes normally gathered to the king’s treasury added up to 14,000 talents. So this is a huge amount that Haman is offering.
Not only does the king agree, but he hands Haman his signet ring, giving him full power and authority in his name. The news is dreadful and travels fast. The decree is sent out by courier to the 127 provinces.
When Death is on the Menu
On the 13th day of the first month, Nisan, Haman signs the death warrant for every Jew in the kingdom — to be done on the 13th day of the 12th month, Adar. And in providential fashion, the date speaks to every Jew who hears it. The printable sheet notes will help you to look deeper at the significance.
Print the notes for this lesson: Chapter 3 Printable
And, I will see you next time…
Jeanne
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