Esther 6:7 – “So he answered the king, ‘For the man the king delights to honor…'”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Esther 6:7, Haman begins to describe what he believes should be done for the man the king wishes to honor. As we see in the next verses, Haman assumes that the king is speaking about him, so he proposes a grand display of royal recognition. He suggests an extravagant reward that reflects his own desire for glory and public admiration. However, Haman’s assumption is tragically wrong, as the king is actually referring to Mordecai, the very man Haman wants to destroy.
This verse captures the moment when Haman, blinded by pride, begins to craft an elaborate honor for someone he believes is himself, setting the stage for the great reversal in the story.
Historical Context
The Book of Esther takes place during the reign of King Xerxes (also known as Ahasuerus) of Persia, around 486–465 BC. Haman, a high-ranking official in the Persian Empire, had grown in power and influence but was consumed with hatred toward Mordecai, a Jewish man who refused to bow down to him. In his arrogance, Haman sought not only to destroy Mordecai but to annihilate the entire Jewish population in Persia.
At this point in the story, Haman had approached the king with plans to have Mordecai executed. However, the king, having just been reminded of Mordecai’s earlier act of loyalty, asked Haman for advice on how to honor a deserving man—without revealing that the man he intended to honor was Mordecai. Haman’s response, as he begins to outline in verse 7, reveals his pride and self-centeredness, as he believes the honor will go to him.
Theological Implications
This verse speaks to the dangers of pride and self-deception. Haman’s assumption that the king wanted to honor him reflects how pride can cloud our judgment and lead us to make false assumptions. Throughout Scripture, we are warned against pride, and this verse is a clear example of how self-centered thinking can lead to downfall. As Haman begins to describe how the king should honor this man, he is setting himself up for a humbling experience that will reveal the futility of pride.
Theologically, this verse reminds us that God opposes the proud but lifts up the humble (James 4:6). Haman’s pride is contrasted with Mordecai’s humility, showing how God works behind the scenes to bring justice and honor to those who faithfully serve Him. It is a reminder that true honor comes from God, not from seeking human recognition.
Literary Analysis
From a literary standpoint, Esther 6:7 marks the beginning of an ironic twist in the story. The reader knows that the king wants to honor Mordecai, but Haman, unaware of this, believes the honor is intended for him. This creates dramatic irony, as Haman’s arrogance leads him to propose an extravagant reward, thinking it will be his own. The tension builds as we anticipate Haman’s shock when he realizes that the honor he describes will be given to his enemy, Mordecai.
This verse also serves as a turning point in the narrative, shifting the story from Haman’s plans of destruction to God’s plan of deliverance for Mordecai and the Jewish people. The author of Esther uses this moment to demonstrate the power of divine providence, as human pride is humbled, and God’s justice prevails.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” This verse perfectly describes Haman’s situation, as his pride leads to his eventual downfall.
- James 4:6 – “But He gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'” This verse highlights the spiritual principle that plays out in Haman’s story, where God opposes his pride and lifts up Mordecai’s humility.
- Luke 14:11 – “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Haman’s attempt to exalt himself contrasts with Mordecai’s quiet faithfulness, and in the end, it is Mordecai who is honored.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Esther 6:7 serves as a reminder to guard against pride and the desire for personal glory. Like Haman, we can easily fall into the trap of thinking too highly of ourselves and assuming that honor or recognition is owed to us. However, Scripture calls us to humility, trusting that God will lift us up in His time and in His way.
This verse also encourages us to trust in God’s justice. Even when it seems like evil is winning or the proud are being exalted, God is still in control. He knows the hearts of men, and He will bring justice in His perfect timing. We are called to remain humble and faithful, knowing that true honor comes from God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Esther 6:7 shows us that God, in His love, cares about justice and righteousness. Even though Haman’s pride and arrogance seem to dominate the situation, God is working behind the scenes to bring about justice for Mordecai and deliverance for His people. God’s love is patient, but it is also just, and He will not allow evil to prevail forever.
God’s love is also reflected in how He humbles the proud. Haman’s pride will ultimately be exposed, and while this may seem harsh, it is an act of love to bring correction and expose the dangers of arrogance. God, in His love, calls us to humility and dependence on Him, which leads to true honor and blessing.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Haman’s desire for self-glory stands in stark contrast to the humility of Jesus Christ. While Haman sought to exalt himself, Jesus humbled Himself, even to the point of death on a cross (Philippians 2:8). Jesus, the Son of God, did not seek human recognition or honor but chose the path of humility and obedience to the Father’s will. As a result, God highly exalted Him (Philippians 2:9).
This connection reminds us that true greatness and honor come through humility and service to others, not through seeking personal glory. Jesus is the ultimate example of this, and through His life, death, and resurrection, He shows us the way to true honor—by serving and glorifying God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever found yourself assuming recognition or honor that was not meant for you? How did that experience affect you?
- How does Esther 6:7 challenge you to examine areas of pride in your life?
- What can we learn from Haman’s downfall about the dangers of seeking personal glory rather than trusting in God’s timing for honor?
- How does the story of Esther encourage you to trust in God’s justice, even when it seems like evil is prevailing?
- In what ways can we follow the example of Jesus in choosing humility over self-exaltation?