Until now, we have mostly seen Esther in a passive position. Almost certainly, she was taken into the king’s harem with little to no choice of her own. Many of the verbs speaking of Esther are in the passive sense–in other words, she was not very in control of her destiny. In the end of chapter 4 going into today’s lesson, we see a reversal of the passivity. She becomes very deliberate and takes the assertiveness of a queen.
What is the significance of Esther putting on her royal robes?
Esther wins favor in the king’s sight: We know from Xerxes previous behavior that this is not a given. Is it just chance then that Esther wins this favor?
Esther’s plan: maybe a bunny trail, but I think her method shows insight into the male psyche. She made him curious instead of nagging or beating him over the head. Are there lessons we can learn for our own cross-gender relationships?
5:5 “that we may do as Esther has asked” (ESV) This shows the king and Haman recognizing Esther as an authority in her own right. This is also underscored by the pride Haman had in being included in Esther’s feast (v9, 12).
Why did Esther again delay her request to the king after the first banquet?
Haman and Mordecai: Mordecai’s behavior has become different yet from his previous actions (refusal to bow/pay homage >> refusal to stand/tremble). There was now no doubt in either man’s mind that they were total enemies, and that Haman had a death sentence hanging over Mordecai.
Why was Mordecai not rising nor trembling before Haman?
What do Haman’s actions here tell us about what kind of a person he was?
Why was Haman so furious about Mordecai’s apparent lack of respect/fear? Why could one man’s lack of respect/fear totally ruin his accomplishments?
Why did Haman need to recount these items to his wife and friends? What is the significance of the accomplishments he listed?
Gallows 75 feet high: how did Haman get this made after supper in one evening (I don’t think they stocked gallows kits at Lowes in those days)? Does this show exaggeration, symbolism, or?? (interesting read here)
