Esther 5:5

Then the king said, Cause Haman to make haste, that he may do as Esther hath said. So the king and Haman came to the banquet that Esther had prepared.

Then the king {H4428} said {H559}, Cause Haman {H2001} to make haste {H4116}, that he may do {H6213} as Esther {H635} hath said {H1697}. So the king {H4428} and Haman {H2001} came {H935} to the banquet {H4960} that Esther {H635} had prepared {H6213}.

The king said, "Bring Haman quickly, so that what Ester has asked for can be done."

“Hurry,” commanded the king, “and bring Haman, so we can do as Esther has requested.” So the king and Haman went to the banquet that Esther had prepared.

Then the king said, Cause Haman to make haste, that it may be done as Esther hath said. So the king and Haman came to the banquet that Esther had prepared.

Commentary

Esther 5:5 marks a crucial step in Queen Esther's meticulous plan to expose Haman's treachery and save her people. Having successfully gained the king's favor, she subtly begins to execute her strategy by inviting both King Ahasuerus and Haman to a private banquet, setting the stage for the dramatic revelation to come.

Context

This verse immediately follows Queen Esther's courageous act of approaching King Ahasuerus without being summoned, an action that could have resulted in her death (Esther 4:11). Fortunately, the king extended his golden sceptre, signifying her acceptance and offering to grant her petition up to "the half of the kingdom" (Esther 5:3). Instead of immediately revealing Haman's wicked plot, Esther's initial request was for the king and Haman to attend a banquet she had prepared (Esther 5:4). Verse 5 shows the king's eagerness to comply with this request, instructing Haman to make haste, and both arrive at the banquet, unaware of the true purpose behind Esther's invitation.

Key Themes

  • Esther's Strategic Wisdom: Esther demonstrates remarkable wisdom and patience. Instead of immediately confronting Haman, she chooses to create an intimate setting, building suspense and preparing for the opportune moment to reveal the truth. This strategic delay highlights the importance of careful planning over impulsive action.
  • The King's Receptiveness: King Ahasuerus's prompt command for Haman to "make haste" and his immediate attendance at the banquet underscore his high regard for Esther and his willingness to fulfill her wishes. This royal favor is essential for the success of Esther's plan.
  • Haman's Blind Arrogance: Haman, the antagonist, is completely oblivious to the trap being laid for him. His attendance at the banquet alongside the king likely fueled his already inflated pride, making his eventual downfall all the more impactful. This serves as a powerful illustration of how pride often precedes a fall.
  • Divine Orchestration: Although God's name is not explicitly mentioned in the Book of Esther, His providential hand is evident throughout the narrative. Esther's careful steps, the king's responsive favor, and Haman's unwitting participation all contribute to the unfolding of God's plan to protect His people.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Cause Haman to make haste" (Hebrew: vehay-man yim-haher) indicates the king's immediate and earnest desire for Haman's presence at the banquet. It conveys a sense of urgency and importance attached to Esther's request, further highlighting the king's favor towards her and the swiftness with which her wishes were granted.

Practical Application

Esther 5:5 offers valuable lessons for contemporary life:

  • The Power of Patience and Prudence: Esther's example teaches us the importance of not rushing into critical situations. Sometimes, the most effective approach involves careful planning, waiting for the right moment, and creating the optimal conditions for success.
  • Trusting in God's Unseen Hand: This passage reinforces the truth that God is at work in our lives, even when we cannot perceive His direct intervention. He uses ordinary circumstances and human actions to achieve His purposes, reminding us to trust in His sovereign plan.
  • Beware of Pride: Haman's arrogance led him to confidently walk into a situation that would ultimately destroy him. This serves as a timeless warning against the dangers of pride and self-importance, urging us to maintain humility.
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Cross-References

  • Esther 6:14 (3 votes)

    And while they [were] yet talking with him, came the king's chamberlains, and hasted to bring Haman unto the banquet that Esther had prepared.