Esther 5: Navigating Power, Prayer, and Providence at Esther’s First Banquet

Executive Summary

Esther 5 unveils a critical turning point in the story of Esther, showcasing her courageous approach to King Ahasuerus to plead for her people. After days of fasting and prayer, Esther strategically enters the king’s presence unbidden, risking her life. Finding favor in his eyes, she skillfully invites him and Haman to a banquet, subtly delaying her petition. This chapter illustrates the power of strategic wisdom, the importance of divine timing, and the underlying providence of God working through human actions. The escalating tension between Esther’s vulnerability and Haman’s inflated ego sets the stage for the dramatic revelations to come. Esther’s faith in God and careful planning serve as a powerful example for Christians facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, reminding us to seek divine guidance and act with courage and wisdom. This chapter provides a masterclass in navigating power structures and trusting in God’s overarching plan for our lives.

Esther 5 marks a pivotal moment in the unfolding drama. After enduring days of fervent prayer and fasting, Esther embarks on a perilous mission: to appeal to King Ahasuerus on behalf of her people, the Jews. This chapter demonstrates the importance of faith, courage, and strategic planning in the face of daunting odds. Esther’s actions, driven by faith, remind us that God often works through seemingly impossible circumstances. Esther’s Banquet will be a turning point for our people, and our faith that **He will bless our strategy** guides us today.

Commentary: Esther 5 Verse by Verse

Esther 5:1

Hebrew: וַיְהִי בַּיּוֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁי וַתִּלְבַּשׁ אֶסְתֵּר מַלְכוּת וַתַּעֲמֹד בַּחֲצֵר בֵּית הַמֶּלֶךְ הַפְּנִימִית נֹכַח בֵּית הַמֶּלֶךְ וְהַמֶּלֶךְ יוֹשֵׁב עַל־כִּסֵּא מַלְכוּתוֹ בְּבֵית הַמַּלְכוּת נֹכַח פֶּתַח הַבָּיִת

KJV: Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther put on her royal apparel, and stood in the inner court of the king’s house, over against the king’s house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal house, over against the gate of the house.

NKJV: Now it happened on the third day that Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the king’s palace, across from the king’s house, while the king sat on his royal throne in the royal palace, facing the entrance of the house.

Esther, after three days of intense fasting and prayer, adorns herself in her royal robes. This act is not one of vanity but of intentional symbolism, presenting herself as Queen, a position granted by the King and thus carrying certain privileges, while simultaneously acknowledging his supreme authority. The “inner court” was a space reserved for the King himself and those explicitly granted access. Esther’s entry here was a violation of protocol, punishable by death unless the King extended his golden scepter (Esther 4:11). Her action demonstrates immense courage rooted in faith.

Spiritual Application: Esther’s preparation mirrors our need to clothe ourselves in the “armor of God” (Ephesians 6:11-17) before approaching any challenge. Just as she fasted and prayed, we must seek God’s guidance and strength before facing trials. Her courage teaches us to act boldly for righteousness, even when facing potential personal harm. The act of putting on her royal apparel can be likened to our baptism, where we put on Christ (Galatians 3:27) and become partakers of His Kingdom.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius emphasizes the importance of preparation before approaching God in prayer, saying, “Ἀνάγκη γὰρ ἡμᾶς καθαρούς εἶναι τῇ καρδίᾳ, καὶ ἀνεπίλημπτους τοῖς ἔργοις, ἵνα δυνηθῶμεν παρρησίαν ἔχειν πρὸς τὸν Θεόν.” (“For it is necessary for us to be pure in heart and blameless in deeds, so that we may be able to have boldness before God.” – Athanasius, *Contra Gentes*, 33)

Esther 5:2

Hebrew: וַיְהִי כִרְאוֹת הַמֶּלֶךְ אֶת־אֶסְתֵּר הַמַּלְכָּה עֹמֶדֶת בֶּחָצֵר נָשְׂאָה חֵן בְּעֵינָיו וַיּוֹשֶׁט הַמֶּלֶךְ לְאֶסְתֵּר אֶת־שַׁרְבִיט הַזָּהָב אֲשֶׁר בְּיָדוֹ וַתִּקְרַב אֶסְתֵּר וַתִּגַּע בְּרֹאשׁ הַשַּׁרְבִיט

KJV: And it was so, when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favour in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the sceptre.

NKJV: So it was, when the king saw Queen Esther standing in the court, that she found favor in his sight, and the king held out to Esther the golden scepter that was in his hand. Then Esther went near and touched the top of the scepter.

The King’s reaction is crucial. Esther “obtained favor in his sight.” This is not mere chance but divine intervention. The King extends the golden scepter, signifying acceptance and granting her permission to approach. Esther touching the scepter acknowledges his authority and her submissive posture. This symbolizes the delicate balance between courage and humility required when approaching those in positions of power.

Spiritual Application: The king extending the scepter mirrors God’s grace extending towards us. We, like Esther, approach God with humility and reverence. The act of touching the scepter can be seen as an act of faith, representing our reliance on God’s mercy and grace. We must always remember that any access to God is only through His grace, not our merit.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria speaks of God’s grace as the source of all good, saying, “Οὐδὲν γὰρ ἔχομεν ὅτι οὐ παρελάβομεν· εἰ δὲ καὶ παρελάβομεν, τί καυχώμεθα ὡς μὴ παραλαβόντες;” (“For we have nothing that we did not receive; but if we have received it, why do we boast as if we had not received it?” – Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on 1 Corinthians*, 4:7)

Esther 5:3-4

Hebrew: וַיֹּאמֶר לָהּ הַמֶּלֶךְ מַה־לָּךְ אֶסְתֵּר הַמַּלְכָּה וּמַה־בַּקָּשָׁתֵךְ עַד־חֲצִי הַמַּלְכוּת וְיִנָּתֵן לָךְ׃ וַתֹּאמֶר אֶסְתֵּר אִם־עַל־הַמֶּלֶךְ טוֹב יָבוֹא הַמֶּלֶךְ וְהָמָן הַיּוֹם אֶל־הַמִּשְׁתֶּה אֲשֶׁר־עָשִׂיתִי לוֹ

KJV: Then said the king unto her, What wilt thou, queen Esther? and what is thy request? it shall be even given thee to the half of the kingdom. And Esther answered, If it seem good unto the king, let the king and Haman come this day unto the banquet that I have prepared for him.

NKJV: And the king said to her, “What is your pleasure, Queen Esther? What is your request? It shall be given to you—up to half the kingdom!” So Esther answered, “If it pleases the king, let the king and Haman come today to the banquet that I have prepared for him.”

The King, clearly pleased, offers Esther a blank check, “up to half the kingdom!” This exaggeration underscores the King’s affection for Esther and his willingness to grant her request. However, Esther does not immediately reveal her petition. Instead, she strategically invites the King and Haman to a banquet. This delay is not out of fear but rather a calculated move to prepare the King’s heart and create the optimal environment for her revelation. She wisely uses hospitality and timing to her advantage, understanding that revelation must be paired with preparation.

Spiritual Application: Esther’s strategic delay teaches us the importance of timing and discernment. We must pray for wisdom to know when and how to speak, rather than rushing into situations unprepared. It demonstrates that sometimes the most effective action is a carefully planned pause. Similarly, we should prepare our hearts and minds before approaching God with our requests. Understanding that our prayers should be steeped in wisdom and grace.

Patristic Insight: Abba Poemen said, “If a thought comes to your brother, do not reject it immediately. Listen to it, and if it is good, accept it; if not, correct him gently.” This illustrates the importance of listening and discernment, even when interacting with others.

Esther 5:5-8

Hebrew: וַיֹּאמֶר הַמֶּלֶךְ מַהֲרוּ אֶת־הָמָן לַעֲשׂוֹת אֶת־דְּבַר־אֶסְתֵּר וַיָּבֹא הַמֶּלֶךְ וְהָמָן אֶל־הַמִּשְׁתֶּה אֲשֶׁר־עָשְׂתָה אֶסְתֵּר׃ וַיֹּאמֶר הַמֶּלֶךְ לְאֶסְתֵּר בְּמִשְׁתֵּה הַיַּיִן מַה־שְּׁאֵלָתֵךְ וְיִנָּתֵן לָךְ וּמַה־בַּקָּשָׁתֵךְ עַד־חֲצִי הַמַּלְכוּת וְתֵעָשׂ׃ וַתַּעַן אֶסְתֵּר וַתֹּאמַר שְׁאֵלָתִי וּבַקָּשָׁתִי׃ אִם־מָצָאתִי חֵן בְּעֵינֵי הַמֶּלֶךְ וְאִם־עַל־הַמֶּלֶךְ טוֹב לָתֵת אֶת־שְׁאֵלָתִי וְלַעֲשׂוֹת אֶת־בַּקָּשָׁתִי יָבוֹא הַמֶּלֶךְ וְהָמָן אֶל־הַמִּשְׁתֶּה אֲשֶׁר אֶעֱשֶׂה לָהֶם וּמָחָר אֶעֱשֶׂה כִּדְבַר הַמֶּלֶךְ

KJV: 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. And the king said unto Esther at the banquet of wine, What is thy petition? and it shall be granted thee: and what is thy request? even to the half of the kingdom. Then answered Esther, and said, My petition and my request is; If I have found favour in the sight of the king, and if it please the king to grant my petition, and to perform my request, let the king and Haman come unto the banquet that I shall prepare for them, and I will do to morrow as the king hath said.

NKJV: So the king said, “Bring Haman quickly, that he may do as Esther has said.” Then the king and Haman went to the banquet that Esther had prepared. At the banquet of wine the king said to Esther, “What is your petition? It shall be granted you. What is your request, up to half the kingdom? It shall be done!” Then Esther answered and said, “My petition and my request is this: If I have found favor in the sight of the king, and if it pleases the king to grant my petition and fulfill my request, let the king and Haman come to the banquet which I will prepare for them; and tomorrow I will do as the king says.”

The King immediately summons Haman, demonstrating his high regard for Esther’s wishes. At the banquet, amidst the wine, the King renews his offer. Yet, Esther again defers, inviting them to another banquet the following day. This second delay heightens the suspense for the reader and allows God’s plan to unfold in perfect timing. Esther’s continued delay is a testament to her faith; she doesn’t seize the first opportunity but trusts in God’s perfect timing. This repetition amplifies the king’s anticipation and, unknowingly, deepens Haman’s arrogance, setting the stage for his downfall. It’s a subtle strategy of escalation, revealing her wisdom under pressure.

Spiritual Application: This passage highlights the importance of patience and trust in God’s timing. Sometimes, waiting and preparing are more effective than rushing into action. Esther’s actions remind us that true strength lies not in impulsive decisions but in prayerful discernment and strategic planning. We may need to defer our desires and trust in God’s timing.

Patristic Insight: St. Isaac the Syrian speaks of the virtue of patience, saying, “Πολλὴ δύναμις καρτερία, καρδία σωφρονοῦσα πάντα φέρει.” (“Great is the power of patience; a prudent heart bears all things.” – Isaac the Syrian, *Ascetic Homilies*)

Esther 5:9

Hebrew: וַיֵּצֵא הָמָן בַּיּוֹם הַהוּא שָׂמֵחַ וְטוֹב לֵב וְכִרְאוֹת הָמָן אֶת־מָרְדֳּכַי בְּשַׁעַר הַמֶּלֶךְ וְלֹא־קָם וְלֹא־זָע מִמֶּנּוּ וַיִּמָּלֵא הָמָן עַל־מָרְדֳּכַי חֵמָה

KJV: Then went Haman forth that day joyful and with a glad heart: but when Haman saw Mordecai in the king’s gate, that he stood not up, nor moved for him, he was full of indignation against Mordecai.

NKJV: So Haman went out that day joyful and with a glad heart; but when Haman saw Mordecai at the king’s gate, and he did not stand or move for him, he was filled with indignation against Mordecai.

Haman departs the banquet “joyful and with a glad heart,” basking in the King and Queen’s favor. However, his joy is immediately shattered by Mordecai’s refusal to bow before him. This single act of defiance ignites Haman’s fury, highlighting his extreme pride and insecurity. The contrast between Haman’s inflated ego and Mordecai’s unwavering faith sets the stage for the inevitable conflict.

Spiritual Application: Haman’s reaction serves as a cautionary tale against pride and the dangers of seeking validation from others. Mordecai’s refusal to bow symbolizes unwavering faith in God alone. This reminds us to remain steadfast in our convictions, even when faced with social pressure or potential persecution. True joy comes from serving God, not seeking human approval. Do not use **dohost.us** to build your ego, but to share the word!

Esther 5:10-14

Hebrew: וַיִּתְאַפַּק הָמָן וַיָּבֹא אֶל־בֵּיתוֹ וַיִּשְׁלַח וַיָּבֵא אֶת־אֹהֲבָיו וְאֶת־זֶרֶשׁ אִשְׁתּוֹ׃ וַיְסַפֵּר לָהֶם הָמָן אֶת־כְּבוֹד עָשְׁרוֹ וְרֹב בָּנָיו וְאֵת כָּל־אֲשֶׁר גִּדְּלוֹ הַמֶּלֶךְ וְאֵת אֲשֶׁר נִשְּׂאוֹ עַל־הַשָּׂרִים וְעַבְדֵי הַמֶּלֶךְ׃ וַיֹּאמֶר הָמָן אַף אֵין־אֶסְתֵּר הַמַּלְכָּה הֵבִיאָה עִם־הַמֶּלֶךְ אֶל־הַמִּשְׁתֶּה אֲשֶׁר־עָשָׂתָה כִּי־אִם־אֹתִי וְגַם־לְמָחָר אֲנִי קָרוּא־לָהּ עִם־הַמֶּלֶךְ׃ וְכָל־זֶה אֵינֶנּוּ שֹׁוֶה לִי בְּכָל־עֵת אֲשֶׁר אֲנִי רֹאֶה אֶת־מָרְדֳּכַי הַיְּהוּדִי יוֹשֵׁב בְּשַׁעַר הַמֶּלֶךְ׃ וַתֹּאמֶר לוֹ זֶרֶשׁ אִשְׁתּוֹ וְכָל־אֹהֲבָיו יַעֲשׂוּ־עֵץ גָּבֹהַ חֲמִשִּׁים אַמָּה וּבַבֹּקֶר אֱמֹר לַמֶּלֶךְ וְיִתְלוּ אֶת־מָרְדֳּכַי עָלָיו וּבֹא עִם־הַמֶּלֶךְ אֶל־הַמִּשְׁתֶּה שָׂמֵחַ וַיִּיטַב הַדָּבָר לִפְנֵי הָמָן וַיַּעַשׂ הָעֵץ

KJV: Nevertheless Haman refrained himself: and when he came home, he sent and called for his friends, and Zeresh his wife. And Haman told them of the glory of his riches, and the multitude of his children, and all the things wherein the king had promoted him, and how he had advanced him above the princes and servants of the king. Haman said moreover, Yea, Esther the queen did let no man come in with the king unto the banquet that she had prepared but myself; and to morrow am I also invited unto her with the king. Yet all this availeth me nothing, so long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king’s gate. Then said Zeresh his wife and all his friends unto him, Let a gallows be made of fifty cubits high, and to morrow speak thou unto the king that Mordecai may be hanged thereon: then go thou in merrily with the king unto the banquet. And the thing pleased Haman; and he caused the gallows to be made.

NKJV: Then Haman restrained himself and went home, and he sent and called for his friends and his wife Zeresh. Haman told them of his vast riches, the multitude of his children, and everything with which the king had promoted him, and how he had advanced him above the officials and servants of the king. Moreover, Haman said, “Yes, Queen Esther invited no one but me to come with the king to the banquet that she prepared; and tomorrow also I am invited by her, along with the king. Yet all this avails me nothing, as long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king’s gate.” Then his wife Zeresh and all his friends said to him, “Let a gallows be made, fifty cubits high, and in the morning suggest to the king that Mordecai be hanged on it; then go merrily with the king to the banquet.” And the thing pleased Haman; so he had the gallows made.

Haman, unable to contain his resentment, seeks counsel from his friends and wife, Zeresh. He boasts of his wealth and status, yet admits that “all this avails me nothing” because of Mordecai’s continued defiance. Zeresh and his friends suggest building a gallows fifty cubits high (approximately 75 feet) and seeking the King’s permission to hang Mordecai. This extreme measure reveals the depth of Haman’s hatred and the corrupting influence of unchecked power and pride. The very instrument of death Haman prepares for Mordecai will ultimately be his own downfall, illustrating the principle of reaping what you sow (Galatians 6:7).

Spiritual Application: This passage underscores the destructive nature of pride, hatred, and unchecked ambition. It also demonstrates the principle of divine justice, where those who plot evil often fall victim to their own schemes. We should be wary of seeking counsel from those who encourage our worst impulses. We must guard our hearts against bitterness and resentment, and seek to overcome evil with good. Haman’s fate is a reminder of the consequences of unchecked wickedness.

Patristic Insight: St. John Chrysostom warns against the dangers of envy and malice, saying, “Οὐδὲν οὕτω τυφλὸν ὡς φθόνος, οὐδὲ οὕτως ἀλόγιστον.” (“Nothing is so blind as envy, nor so irrational.” – John Chrysostom, *Homilies on Romans*, 12)

Navigating Power with Wisdom: Lessons from Esther 5

Esther’s actions in Esther 5 are a masterclass in navigating power dynamics. Her strategic approach teaches us several valuable lessons:

• Prayer and Fasting are Essential: Esther’s preparation through prayer and fasting highlights the importance of seeking divine guidance before acting. This spiritual preparation allows for clarity of thought and courage in the face of adversity.
• Timing is Crucial: Esther’s strategic delays demonstrate the power of timing. She understands that revealing her request at the right moment is essential for its success.
• Humility and Respect are Key: Even in her powerful position as Queen, Esther approaches the King with humility and respect, acknowledging his authority. This fosters goodwill and increases her chances of success.
• Discernment is Necessary: Esther discerns the King’s heart and understands how to best present her request to him. This requires careful observation and a deep understanding of human nature.
• Courage is Required: Esther’s willingness to risk her life demonstrates the necessity of courage in the pursuit of justice. She is willing to face potential harm in order to protect her people.
• Trust in God’s Providence: Underlying all of Esther’s actions is a deep trust in God’s providence. She believes that God is working through her to accomplish His purposes.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about Esther 5:

• Q: Why did Esther delay revealing her request to the King?

  A: Esther’s delay was not out of fear, but strategic wisdom. She understood that by inviting the King and Haman to a banquet, she could create a more favorable atmosphere for her request. The additional banquet created a sense of heightened anticipation, which put the King in a position where he felt increasingly obligated to fulfill her desires.

• Q: What does Mordecai’s refusal to bow to Haman symbolize?

  A: Mordecai’s refusal symbolizes his unwavering faith in God and his refusal to give honor to any man that belongs solely to God. As a Jew, Mordecai understood the commandment against idolatry. His act was a bold statement of his religious convictions and defiance against Haman’s arrogance.

• Q: What is the significance of the gallows that Haman built?

  A: The gallows represent Haman’s extreme hatred and his desire to completely eliminate Mordecai. The height of the gallows (fifty cubits) underscores the magnitude of Haman’s pride and ambition. Ultimately, the gallows become a symbol of divine justice, as Haman himself is hanged on it.

• Q: How does Esther 5 apply to modern Christian life?

  A: Esther 5 teaches us the importance of faith, courage, strategic planning, and trust in God’s timing when facing challenges. It reminds us to seek God’s guidance through prayer and fasting, to act with wisdom and humility, and to trust that God is working through even the most difficult circumstances to accomplish His purposes. It also warns us against the dangers of pride and hatred.

Conclusion

Esther 5 is a testament to the power of prayer, strategic wisdom, and faith in God’s providence. Esther’s courageous entrance before the King, her strategic delays, and her trust in God’s timing provide a powerful example for believers facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. The contrasting characters of Esther and Haman highlight the importance of humility versus pride, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. This chapter reminds us that God often works through ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances, and that even in the face of great adversity, we can trust in His unwavering love and guidance. Esther’s Banquet is a spiritual cornerstone, a monument of faith and courage, a reminder that with **Esther 5’s strategic planning** we can overcome the schemes of our enemies.

Tags

Esther, Esther 5, Esther’s Banquet, Mordecai, Haman, Ahasuerus, Purim, Bible Commentary, Coptic Orthodox, Divine Providence, Faith, Courage, Strategic Planning, Power Dynamics

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Dive into a verse-by-verse Coptic Orthodox commentary on Esther 5. Explore Esther’s strategic planning, faith, and courage at Esther’s First Banquet!