of Persian origin; Poratha, a son of Haman; Poratha.
Transliteration:Pôwrâthâʼ
Pronunciation:po-raw-thaw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6334}}` (Pôwrâthâʼ) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates it is "of Persian origin" and identifies "Poratha" as "a son of Haman." As a proper noun, its semantic range is inherently limited to the individual it designates. Unlike common nouns or verbs, it does not possess a broad spectrum of meanings. Its significance lies solely in its identification of a specific person within the biblical narrative. While its Persian etymology might suggest a specific meaning in its original language, the biblical text does not expound upon this, focusing instead on the individual's role and identity within the unfolding events.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Poratha appears exclusively in the book of Esther, specifically in [[Esther 9:7]]. He is listed as one of the ten sons of Haman, the Agagite, who were slain by the Jews in Susa. The full list of Haman's sons is provided in [[Esther 9:7-9]]: Parshandatha, Dalphon, Aspatha, Poratha, Adalia, Aridatha, Parmashta, Arisai, Aridai, and Vajezatha. The meticulous listing of their names underscores the completeness of the victory achieved by the Jewish people against their adversaries. This event is a pivotal moment in the narrative, following Haman's plot to annihilate the Jews and preceding the institution of the feast of Purim. The execution of Haman's sons, alongside Haman himself (`{{H2001}}`), signifies the utter destruction of the primary threat to the Jewish community in the Persian Empire, ensuring the reversal of their fortunes from impending doom to triumphant survival. The context highlights divine retribution and the comprehensive nature of the deliverance granted to God's people.
### Related Words & Concepts
Poratha is inextricably linked to the figure of Haman (`{{H2001}}`), his father, the chief antagonist of the book of Esther. His name is also associated with his nine brothers, whose deaths are recorded alongside his own. The broader conceptual framework includes:
* **Haman's family:** The destruction of Haman's entire male lineage signifies the eradication of his seed and the complete nullification of his evil designs.
* **The enemies of Israel:** Haman, an Agagite, represents the ancient, persistent enmity against God's chosen people, tracing back to Amalek. Poratha, as his son, embodies this inherited opposition.
* **Purim:** The festival established to commemorate the deliverance of the Jews from Haman's plot, in which the downfall of Haman and his sons is a central theme.
* **Divine Providence:** Though God's name is not explicitly mentioned in Esther, the narrative powerfully illustrates His unseen hand guiding events to protect His covenant people, turning a decree of destruction into a day of triumph.
* **Reversal of Fortunes:** The dramatic shift from a decree of annihilation to the Jews executing their enemies, with Haman's sons being prominent casualties.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of Poratha's name, along with his brothers, in the biblical record holds significant theological weight. Their deaths are not merely a historical detail but serve as a powerful testament to the comprehensive nature of divine justice and deliverance. As a son of Haman, Poratha represents the extension of the Amalekite line, which was under a perpetual ban (cf. [[Exodus 17:14-16]], [[Deuteronomy 25:17-19]]). His demise, therefore, symbolizes the thorough defeat of those who oppose God's purposes and His people. It underscores the principle that the Lord defends His covenant people, bringing judgment upon their oppressors. The complete annihilation of Haman's lineage ensures that the threat he embodied is utterly removed, solidifying the security and continuity of the Jewish nation. This event, culminating in the feast of Purim, celebrates God's faithfulness in preserving His people against all odds, even when facing seemingly insurmountable human decrees.
### Summary
Poratha (`{{H6334}}`) is identified in the book of Esther as one of the ten sons of Haman, the antagonist who sought to destroy the Jewish people. His name appears exclusively in [[Esther 9:7]], where he is listed among those executed by the Jews in Susa. As a proper noun of Persian origin, his significance lies in his identity as part of Haman's lineage, representing the generational threat against Israel. His death, alongside his brothers, is a crucial element in the narrative of Purim, symbolizing the complete downfall of the enemies of God's people and the comprehensive nature of divine deliverance and justice. The account powerfully illustrates God's providential care in preserving His covenant people from annihilation.
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