Chapter Summary

Esther's banquet and the hanging of Haman.

Discussion Questions for Esther, Chapter 7

1. In chapter 4, we see that all the Jews in the land were praying to God on Esther's behalf. How is God's faithfulness to answer prayers demonstrated in this chapter? Is God's faithfulness any different towards believers now? Why or why not?
2. Do you think the binding nature of the king's promise gave Esther confidence to reveal Haman's plot? If not this promise, what is something greater that may have encouraged her?
3. In this chapter, what characteristics of God are revealed? How are they revealed through Esther? How are they revealed through King Ahasuerus?
4. How does Esther demonstrate courage in her appeal to the king? How can we as believers learn from her example, to do what is right even when it is hard or dangerous?
5. In verse 4, Esther appeals to the king's desire for prosperity as she reveals Haman's wrongdoing, considering the potential "loss to the king" (ESV). Do you think it was right to do this? Why or why not?
6. This is the first chapter in which the author gives Esther the title of "Queen". Do you think this distinction is important to the events which occur in this chapter? Why or why not?
7. "Wrath" is the word used as the primary emotional response of the king to Haman's actions. What do you think this word means in this context?
8. Although the king was rightfully angry because of Haman's wrongdoing, in chapter 3 we learn that King Ahasuerus himself was the one to give approval of the Jews' destruction. Do you think the fact he was deceived by Haman lessens his guilt in the matter? Why or why not?
9. How do we see the pride of Haman lead to his ultimate destruction in this chapter? How does this reveal God's faithfulness to his children? How might this bring hope to believers facing persecution in the world?
10. How might the king's vengeance in this chapter be associated with God's ultimate vengeance? In what ways are they similar, and in what ways are they different?

Key Words/Phrase

Hanged, v. 10.

Characters

Ahasuerus, Esther, Haman, Harbonah.

Strong Verse(s)

9, 10.