Chapter Summary

Conspiracy of Haman. The king's decree to destroy the Jews.

Discussion Questions for Esther, Chapter 3

1. By labeling Haman as an "Agagite", the author of Esther is connecting him to Agag, a previous enemy of Israel. How does Haman present himself as an enemy of Israel in this chapter?
2. We see in verse 2 that Mordecai defies Persian custom and refuses to honor Haman. Do you think this was prideful or righteous for him to do? Why?
3. In revealing to the king's servants that he was of Jewish heritage, Mordecai does the very thing that he had commanded Esther not to do in Chapter 2:20. Was this a brave and strategic move on his part, or a foolish one? Explain.
4. The actions of Mordecai appear to have dangerous consequences for the entire Jewish people, as Haman's anger was ignited against all Jews in the land. Did this hatred within Haman begin with Mordecai, or was it longer standing? Why do you think so?
5. How is the pride of Haman revealed throughout this chapter? Can you think of similar tendencies towards entitlement in your own lives? How might you react differently from Haman, in a way which honors God?
6. In these times, Jews would cast "Pur", or lots, to determine the will of God. Is this practice still held by believers today? What has God given us so that we might know his will? How is this better?
7. King Ahasuerus allowed his pride and desire for monetary gain to blind him to the evil of Haman's actions. Do these sin patterns still exist today? What do they look like? What are ways to resist these temptations?
8. In verses 12-14, we see that the sin of Haman had a snowball effect, with the potential to lead King Ahasuerus and then his entire kingdom to sin against the people of God. Where do we see this in the world today? How does the hope of the gospel change our perception of these events?
9. Read verse 15. What do Haman and King Ahasuerus choose to do as this deadly decree is being sent out? Is their celebration an indication that all the land agrees with their decree? How do we know this?
10. What does this chapter teach us about the contagious and destructive effect of self-righteous pride? What attitudes found in this passage should we seek to avoid in our own lives? Why is pride so harmful?

Key Words/Phrase

Decree, v. 14.

Characters

Ahasuerus, Haman, Mordecai.

Strong Verse(s)

2