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Esther | Chapter Summaries + Study QuestionsSample

Esther | Chapter Summaries + Study Questions

DAY 3 OF 10

ESTHER 3

HAMAN PLOTS TO ERADICATE THE ISRAELITES

King Xerxes elevates a man named Haman to a high position of power within the Persian kingdom. Haman is an Agagite, a descendant of the Canaanites, one of Israel’s greatest enemies.

All of the king’s servants bow down and kneel before Haman, but Mordecai refuses. Haman is furious that Mordecai, an Israelite, resists honoring his official role. Highlighting the racial tension in Persia, Haman makes a decree to kill all of the Israelites in Persia. Haman is not content with hurting Mordecai alone; he wants to wipe out the entire people group.

Haman chooses the date of the Israelite execution by casting lots or rolling dice, referred to as Pur, the Hebrew word for dice. The day before the annual Passover celebration, the Israelite people received the terrible news that they would face mass execution.

STUDY QUESTIONS

Read Esther 3:1-5. How did the king command the royal officials to respond to Haman? Why do you think Mordecai refused?

How did Haman respond to Mordecai’s refusal? What decree did Haman influence the king to issue?

Scripture

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Esther | Chapter Summaries + Study Questions

Join us for a chapter-by-chapter study of the book of Esther! This plan covers the entire book with clear chapter summaries and thoughtful study questions designed to deepen your understanding of God’s Word. Our mission is to encourage spiritual growth through the knowledge of God’s Word. We hope you’ll join us!

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