Esther 6:6

Context

Esther 6:6 is a pivotal moment of dramatic irony in the Book of Esther. Just before this verse, King Ahasuerus experienced a sleepless night and, upon having the royal chronicles read to him, discovered that Mordecai the Jew had once saved his life from an assassination plot but had never been rewarded (Esther 6:1-3). At the very same time, Haman, the king's chief minister, was approaching the palace, intending to ask the king for permission to hang Mordecai on the gallows he had prepared (Esther 5:14). The king's question to Haman about honoring someone sets the stage for a spectacular reversal of fortune.

Key Themes

• Dramatic Irony: The central theme here is the stark contrast between Haman's arrogant assumption and the reality of the situation. The audience knows the king wishes to honor Mordecai, while Haman, consumed by his own ego, believes the honor is for him. This creates tension and highlights Haman's blindness.
• Pride and Arrogance: Haman's internal thought, "To whom would the king delight to do honour more than to myself?", perfectly encapsulates his inflated sense of self-importance and overwhelming pride. This serves as a powerful illustration of how pride often precedes a fall.
• Divine Providence: Although God's name is not explicitly mentioned in the Book of Esther, His providential hand is clearly at work. The king's sleepless night, the timing of Haman's arrival, and the precise question asked are all orchestrated to bring about justice and protect God's people, the Jews. This verse is a clear demonstration of how God can use even the most wicked individuals to fulfill His purposes.
• Reversal of Fortune: This moment marks the turning point in the narrative. The one Haman sought to destroy is now the one he is unwittingly tasked to honor, signifying the beginning of Haman's downfall and Mordecai's exaltation.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "delighteth to honour" (Hebrew: ḥāfēṣ yiqar - חָפֵץ יִקָר) conveys a strong sense of the king's earnest desire to bestow significant glory and esteem upon someone. It's not a casual act but a deeply intended elevation. Haman's interpretation of this phrase through the lens of his own self-absorption underscores his profound misjudgment and the depth of his pride.

Practical Application

• Beware of Pride: Haman's downfall serves as a timeless warning against the dangers of unchecked pride and self-exaltation. When we are consumed by our own importance, we become blind to reality and susceptible to great error.
• Humility is Honored: In contrast to Haman, Mordecai, through his quiet faithfulness and humble service (saving the king without seeking immediate reward), ultimately received the very honor Haman coveted. True honor often comes not from seeking it, but from faithful living.
• Trust God's Timing: The precise and dramatic timing of events in Esther 6:6 reminds us that God is actively involved in the affairs of humanity, often working behind the scenes through seemingly random occurrences or the actions of others to accomplish His perfect will. We can trust in His divine providence, even when circumstances seem bleak.
• Recognize Divine Irony: Life can present situations where our expectations are dramatically overturned. This verse encourages us to look beyond immediate appearances and recognize how God might be orchestrating events for a greater purpose, even using the arrogance of others for His glory.