Esther 8:5

KJV

And said, If it please the king, and if I have found favour in his sight, and the thing [seem] right before the king, and I [be] pleasing in his eyes, let it be written to reverse the letters devised by Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, which he wrote to destroy the Jews which [are] in all the king's provinces:

KJV (with Strong's)

And said {H559}, If it please {H2896} the king {H4428}, and if I have found {H4672} favour {H2580} in his sight {H6440}, and the thing {H1697} seem right {H3787} before {H6440} the king {H4428}, and I be pleasing {H2896} in his eyes {H5869}, let it be written {H3789} to reverse {H7725} the letters {H5612} devised {H4284} by Haman {H2001} the son {H1121} of Hammedatha {H4099} the Agagite {H91}, which he wrote {H3789} to destroy {H6} the Jews {H3064} which are in all the king's {H4428} provinces {H4082}:

Complete Jewish Bible

She said, "If it pleases the king, if I have won his favor, if the matter seem right to the king and if I have his approval, then let an order be written rescinding the letters devised by Haman the son of Hamdata the Agagi, which he wrote to destroy the Jews in all the royal provinces.

Berean Standard Bible

“If it pleases the king,” she said, “and if I have found favor in his sight, and the matter seems proper to the king, and I am pleasing in his sight, may an order be written to revoke the letters that the scheming Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, wrote to destroy the Jews in all the king’s provinces.

American Standard Version

And she said, If it please the king, and if I have found favor in his sight, and the thing seem right before the king, and I be pleasing in his eyes, let it be written to reverse the letters devised by Haman, the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, which he wrote to destroy the Jews that are in all the king’s provinces:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Esther 8:5 captures Queen Esther's profoundly diplomatic and urgent petition to King Ahasuerus, seeking to reverse the devastating decree orchestrated by Haman, which threatened the annihilation of all Jews across the Persian Empire. Despite Haman's execution, the legal framework for the genocide remained active, necessitating Esther's courageous and strategic appeal. Her repeated expressions of humility and reliance on the king's favor underscore the absolute nature of his authority and the critical need for his direct intervention to avert catastrophe, marking a pivotal moment in the narrative's shift from impending doom to the hope of deliverance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the dramatic downfall and execution of Haman in [Esther 7](/esther/7 "Esther 7 - Haman's Downfall"), a direct result of Esther's courageous revelation of his plot. While Haman, the architect of the evil decree, is gone, his edict, sealed with the king's signet ring, remains legally binding throughout the empire according to immutable Persian law (cf. [Esther 1:19](/esther/1-19 "Esther 1:19 - Law of the Medes and Persians") and [Esther 8:8](/esther/8-8 "Esther 8:8 - Irrevocability of Persian Law")). Thus, the threat to the Jewish people persists, creating immense narrative tension. Esther's petition in [Esther 8:5](/esther/8-5 "Esther 8:5 - Esther's Plea to Reverse Haman's Decree") is the crucial next step in the unfolding deliverance, demonstrating that the removal of the enemy was only part of the solution; the legal mechanism of destruction also had to be addressed.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Persian Empire was vast, stretching from India to Ethiopia, encompassing 127 provinces (cf. [Esther 1:1](/esther/1-1 "Esther 1:1 - Ahasuerus's Vast Empire")). The king's word was absolute, and decrees, once issued and sealed, were considered irrevocable, a legal principle that both empowered and constrained the monarch. This cultural norm explains Esther's elaborate and deferential language; she is not merely being polite but strategically navigating a rigid legal and social system where direct demands would be counterproductive. Her appeal to the king's personal favor and the "rightness" of the matter acknowledges his supreme judicial authority and seeks a solution that respects, or at least circumvents, the established legal precedent without directly violating it.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully highlights several key themes central to the book of Esther. Firstly, **Divine Providence** is evident, as God, though unmentioned, orchestrates events through human agency to protect His people, turning the tables on their enemies (cf. [Esther 9:1](/esther/9-1 "Esther 9:1 - The Reversal of Fortune")). Secondly, **Esther's Courage and Wisdom** are again on display. Having risked her life to approach the king earlier (cf. [Esther 4:16](/esther/4-16 "Esther 4:16 - Esther's Brave Decision")), she now exhibits astute diplomacy, understanding that a humble, respectful approach is essential to sway a powerful monarch. Thirdly, the theme of **Reversal of Fortune** is paramount. Haman's plot, intended for destruction, is being systematically dismantled and reversed, leading to the ultimate triumph and vindication of the Jewish people (cf. [Esther 9:22](/esther/9-22 "Esther 9:22 - The Day of Feasting and Gladness")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Favour (Hebrew, _chen_):** This word signifies grace, goodwill, or acceptance. Esther's repeated emphasis on finding "favour" in the king's sight underscores her complete reliance on his benevolent disposition rather than any legal right. In the context of the Persian court, it was a plea for a personal, compassionate response from a sovereign who held absolute power over life and death. It highlights the precariousness of her position and the magnitude of the king's potential mercy.
* **Reverse (Hebrew, _lehashiv_):** The infinitive form of the verb "to return" or "to turn back." Here, it carries the strong sense of undoing, revoking, or causing something to return to its original state. This term is crucial because Persian law stipulated that a decree sealed with the king's ring could not be revoked (cf. [Esther 8:8](/esther/8-8 "Esther 8:8 - Irrevocability of Persian Law")). Esther is asking for an action that, while not directly "canceling" the original decree, would effectively nullify its destructive power by allowing for a counter-decree, demonstrating the unique challenge and the king's creative solution.
* **Devised (Hebrew, _chashav_):** This verb means to think, to plan, to calculate, or to invent. When applied to Haman's actions, it emphasizes the deliberate, malicious, and calculated nature of his genocidal plot. It was not a spontaneous act but a carefully "devised" scheme, highlighting the depth of his wickedness and the premeditated evil that Esther is now seeking to unravel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And said, If it please the king,"**: Esther initiates her petition with extreme deference, acknowledging the king's supreme authority and seeking his personal approval as the foundational prerequisite for her request. This phrase sets the tone of humility and respect.
* **"and if I have found favour in his sight,"**: This reiterates her reliance on the king's goodwill and personal regard for her. It's a plea for grace, recognizing that her success depends entirely on his benevolent disposition towards her, rather than on any legal standing.
* **"and the thing [seem] right before the king,"**: Esther appeals to the king's sense of justice and propriety. She frames her request not merely as a personal plea but as something inherently just and morally correct, aligning her petition with what the king himself might perceive as equitable.
* **"and I [be] pleasing in his eyes,"**: This further emphasizes her desire for the king's personal satisfaction and approval. It's a deeply personal appeal, reinforcing her position as his beloved queen and hoping that his affection for her will sway his decision.
* **"let it be written to reverse the letters devised by Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite,"**: This is the core of her petition. She explicitly requests a new decree to counteract Haman's original, destructive letters. The mention of "Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite" serves as a stark reminder of the enemy's identity and his lineage, connecting him to the ancient adversaries of Israel (the Amalekites), thereby underscoring the spiritual dimension of the conflict.
* **"which he wrote to destroy the Jews which [are] in all the king's provinces:"**: This final clause clarifies the horrific purpose and widespread scope of Haman's original decree, emphasizing the existential threat to the entire Jewish population throughout the vast Persian Empire, thereby highlighting the urgency and gravity of Esther's request.

#### Literary Devices
The passage is rich in **Diplomatic Language** and **Repetition**, particularly of phrases emphasizing Esther's deference to the king's will ("If it please the king," "if I have found favour," "if I be pleasing in his eyes"). This repetition is not merely stylistic; it underscores the absolute power of the Persian monarch and Esther's astute understanding of court protocol. It highlights her vulnerability and the strategic necessity of humility in approaching such authority. There is also a strong element of **Irony** in the request to "reverse" Haman's letters, given the supposed irrevocability of Persian law. This sets up the narrative tension that will be resolved by the king's creative solution in the subsequent verses, demonstrating that while the letter of the law might be unchangeable, its practical effect can be circumvented by a new, countermanding decree. The mention of "Haman the son of Hammedatha the Agagite" serves as a powerful **Allusion** to the ancient enmity between Israel and Amalek, imbuing the conflict with historical and theological weight.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Esther 8:5 is a profound testament to the theme of divine providence working through human agency. While God's name is conspicuously absent from the book of Esther, His sovereign hand is undeniably at play, orchestrating the reversal of an evil decree through the courageous and wise actions of Esther. This verse demonstrates that even when a situation seems legally immutable or hopelessly dire, God can raise up individuals and inspire creative solutions to deliver His people. It highlights the principle that evil plots, though meticulously "devised" by human hands, are ultimately subject to the greater purposes of God, who can turn the enemy's schemes back upon themselves. The plea for "favour" and "rightness" also subtly appeals to a higher moral order, suggesting that even earthly kings are, at times, moved by a sense of justice that aligns with divine principles.

* [Esther 3:13](/esther/3-13 "Haman's Original Decree for Destruction")
* [Proverbs 21:1](/proverbs/21-1 "The King's Heart is in the Hand of the Lord")
* [Psalm 7:16](/psalms/7-16 "The Wicked's Mischief Returns on Their Own Head")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Esther's approach to King Ahasuerus in [Esther 8:5](/esther/8-5 "Esther 8:5 - Esther's Plea to Reverse Haman's Decree") offers a powerful paradigm for believers facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It teaches us the profound importance of strategic, humble, and persistent petitioning, whether to earthly authorities or to God Himself. Esther did not rely on her past achievements or newfound status but approached the king with deep respect for his authority and an earnest appeal to his favor and sense of justice. This reminds us that even after a significant victory (Haman's downfall), the battle for complete deliverance may continue, requiring sustained courage and diplomatic wisdom. It underscores the truth that God often works through the diligent and prayerful efforts of His people, empowering them to act decisively and wisely in the face of injustice, turning what seems irreversible into a pathway for salvation. Our perseverance in prayer and action, coupled with humility and wisdom, can be the very means through which God brings about His mighty purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or in the world do you see seemingly "irreversible" decrees of evil that need divine intervention?**
* **How does Esther's humility and strategic diplomacy challenge your own approach to authority or to difficult situations?**
* **What "favour" or "rightness" can you appeal to when bringing your petitions before God or others?**
* **How does this passage encourage you to persevere in prayer and action, even after an initial victory?**

### FAQ

**Why did Esther use such deferential language, repeating phrases about pleasing the king and finding favor?**

Answer: Esther's repeated use of deferential language ("If it please the king," "if I have found favour in his sight," "if I be pleasing in his eyes") was not mere politeness but a crucial strategic maneuver rooted in the absolute nature of Persian monarchy. The king's word was law, and his personal disposition determined life or death. By appealing to his pleasure and favor, Esther acknowledged his supreme authority and sought a personal, benevolent response rather than relying on any legal right. This approach was essential to secure his willingness to act creatively to circumvent the immutable law of the Medes and Persians, which prevented the direct revocation of a sealed decree. Her humility and respect were key to winning his cooperation in a seemingly impossible legal situation.

**Why couldn't Haman's original decree simply be cancelled or revoked, given his execution?**

Answer: According to Persian law, a decree issued and sealed with the king's signet ring was considered irrevocable (cf. [Esther 1:19](/esther/1-19 "Esther 1:19 - Law of the Medes and Persians") and [Esther 8:8](/esther/8-8 "Esther 8:8 - Irrevocability of Persian Law")). This legal principle meant that even the king himself could not directly annul a decree once it was formalized. While Haman, the author of the decree, was executed, the legal document itself remained valid and binding throughout the empire. Therefore, Esther's petition was not for cancellation but for a counter-decree that would effectively nullify the original's destructive power by granting the Jews the right to defend themselves, thus providing a legal means for their survival without directly overturning the previous edict.

**What is the significance of Haman being called "the Agagite"?**

Answer: The designation "the Agagite" for Haman is deeply significant, connecting him to Agag, the king of the Amalekites, whom King Saul was commanded to utterly destroy in [1 Samuel 15](/1_samuel/15 "1 Samuel 15 - Saul and the Amalekites"). The Amalekites were ancient, persistent enemies of Israel, first attacking them after the Exodus (cf. [Exodus 17:8-16](/exodus/17-8 "Exodus 17:8-16 - Amalek Attacks Israel")). God had sworn to blot out the remembrance of Amalek (cf. [Deuteronomy 25:17-19](/deuteronomy/25-17 "Deuteronomy 25:17-19 - Remember Amalek")). By identifying Haman as an Agagite, the narrative elevates the conflict from a personal vendetta to a continuation of this ancient, divinely ordained struggle against a sworn enemy of God's people. It underscores the theological dimension of the plot and the ultimate triumph of God's covenant faithfulness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Esther's desperate plea to reverse Haman's decree, which was legally binding and seemingly irreversible, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate reversal orchestrated by God through Jesus Christ. Just as Haman's decree brought a sentence of death upon all Jews, so too did the law of sin and death condemn all humanity (cf. [Romans 5:12](/romans/5-12 "Romans 5:12 - Sin and Death Through Adam")). Humanity was under an inescapable decree of spiritual death, a "law" that could not be simply canceled. However, God, in His infinite wisdom and grace, did not merely revoke the old covenant or the consequences of sin, but through Christ, He issued a "new decree"—a new covenant—that effectively nullifies the power of sin and death for those who believe (cf. [Hebrews 8:6-13](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6-13 - A Superior Covenant")). Jesus, our ultimate intercessor and "Lamb of God" (cf. [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), perfectly fulfills Esther's role, approaching the Father on our behalf, not appealing to a human king's favor, but to His own perfect sacrifice and righteousness. Through His death and resurrection, Christ reversed the ultimate decree of death, offering life and freedom to all who were bound (cf. [Romans 8:2](/romans/8-2 "Romans 8:2 - The Law of the Spirit of Life")). He is the true "reverse" of all that seeks to destroy God's people, establishing an eternal deliverance far grander than any earthly salvation.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Esther 7:3

Then Esther the queen answered and said, If I have found favour in thy sight, O king, and if it please the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request:

Esther 5:8

If I have found favour in the sight of the king, and if it please the king to grant my petition, and to perform my request, let the king and Haman come to the banquet that I shall prepare for them, and I will do to morrow as the king hath said.

Esther 3:12

Then were the king's scribes called on the thirteenth day of the first month, and there was written according to all that Haman had commanded unto the king's lieutenants, and to the governors that [were] over every province, and to the rulers of every people of every province according to the writing thereof, and [to] every people after their language; in the name of king Ahasuerus was it written, and sealed with the king's ring.

Esther 3:13

And the letters were sent by posts into all the king's provinces, to destroy, to kill, and to cause to perish, all Jews, both young and old, little children and women, in one day, [even] upon the thirteenth [day] of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, and [to take] the spoil of them for a prey.

Exodus 33:13

Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation [is] thy people.

Esther 2:17

And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favour in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti.

Esther 2:4

And let the maiden which pleaseth the king be queen instead of Vashti. And the thing pleased the king; and he did so.