### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The name **Hâmân**, represented by `{{H2001}}`, is of foreign derivation and identifies a Persian vizier who serves as a central antagonist in the Bible. It appears **54 times** across **45 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Esther. The narrative consistently portrays him as a man driven by pride and hatred, whose actions precipitate a crisis for the Jewish people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2001}}` is introduced as an official whom King Ahasuerus `{{H325}}` promoted `{{H1431}}` and advanced `{{H5375}}` above all other princes [[Esther 3:1]]. His high status fueled his rage when Mordecai the Jew refused to bow `{{H3766}}` to him. This personal offense led **Haman** to seek `{{H1245}}` the destruction `{{H8045}}` of not only Mordecai but all the Jews throughout the kingdom [[Esther 3:6]]. After deceiving the king, he cast Pur `{{H6332}}`, or the lot, to determine the day for their annihilation [[Esther 3:7]]. His plot is ultimately exposed by Queen Esther, who identifies him as "this wicked `{{H7451}}` **Haman**" [[Esther 7:6]], leading to him being hanged `{{H8518}}` on the very gallows `{{H6086}}` he had built for Mordecai [[Esther 7:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate Haman’s character and his role in the narrative:
* `{{H91}}` **'Ăgâgîy** (Agagite): This identifies **Haman**'s lineage, linking him to a historic enemy of Israel and establishing his antagonistic identity from the outset [[Esther 3:1]].
* `{{H2534}}` **chêmâh** (wrath, indignation): This word describes the intense anger that filled **Haman** when Mordecai refused to honor him, becoming the direct motivation for his genocidal plot ([[Esther 3:5]], [[Esther 5:9]]).
* `{{H4284}}` **machăshâbâh** (device, plot): This term is used for the malicious plan **Haman** contrived `{{H2803}}` against the Jews, highlighting the calculated nature of his evil intentions ([[Esther 8:3]], [[Esther 9:24]]).
* `{{H6887}}` **tsârar** (to be an adversary, enemy): **Haman** is repeatedly labeled "the Jews' **enemy**," defining his role as the primary adversary in the story ([[Esther 3:10]], [[Esther 8:1]]).
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{H2001}}` is centered on his role as the quintessential enemy of God's people within the story of Esther.
* **Embodiment of Pride:** **Haman** boasted about the glory `{{H3519}}` of his riches `{{H6239}}` and his promotion by the king [[Esther 5:11]]. His pride was so great that a single man's refusal to bow drove him to plot mass murder.
* **Architect of a Wicked Plot:** He is the originator of the plan to destroy `{{H6}}` the Jews. He devises `{{H2803}}` the scheme, persuades the king, and issues the decree, making him the active agent of destruction ([[Esther 3:8]], [[Esther 3:12]]).
* **Subject of Ironic Reversal:** The story of **Haman** is a profound illustration of irony and justice. He is forced to lead his rival Mordecai in a parade of honor [[Esther 6:11]], his estate is given to Esther [[Esther 8:1]], and he is executed on the gallows he built for his enemy [[Esther 7:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2001}}` is more than just a historical name; it represents the archetypal adversary whose pride and hatred lead him to orchestrate a plot of total destruction. The narrative of **Haman** the Agagite `{{H91}}` is a story of evil ambition, but it culminates in his own dramatic and ironic downfall, serving as a powerful demonstration of justice within the biblical account.
TRV