Introduction

In Matthew 10:26, Jesus said, “there is nothing concealed that will not be revealed.” I wonder if He might have had this chapter of Esther in mind. After all, there are no real witnesses to all the plotting and manipulation going on here. Though God’s name never appears in this book, His hand is unmistakably present. He has revealed what is concealed in order to show He is here. 

The third chapter of Esther reveals one of the darkest turns in the story. A proud man, a faithful servant, and a sovereign God all take center stage in history. The tension that starts here will trigger the events leading to Israel’s dramatic rescue. In this chapter, human pride and divine providence meet—and God’s unseen control over history is once again shown.

Misplaced Honor (vv. 1–2)

The first thing we see is an unexpected promotion: Haman the Agagite is exalted above all other officials. Honor that should be rooted in wisdom and character is instead granted to a man filled with pride and hatred. The king commands that everyone bow before Haman, but Mordechai, a Jew, refuses. Notice how Mordechai is identified as a Jew, not just a member of the covenant community; instead, his national identity is made explicit. Mordechai’s act of defiance sets the stage for a cosmic struggle between pride and faithfulness. When honor is misplaced, power becomes a dangerous weapon rather than a tool for good.

Mordechai’s Resistance (vv. 3–4)

Mordechai’s refusal to bow was not a political statement but a spiritual one. As a faithful Jew, he would not worship any man. Mordechai has drawn a line. We know that where you draw the line is where the fight begins. The Persian officials, unable to understand his conviction, report his behavior to Haman. We learn from Modechai’s example that if you draw the line at faithfulness to God, you invite misunderstanding and opposition from the unbelieving culture. Yet, in remaining loyal to God, Mordechai also displays the kind of courage that becomes the catalyst for God’s greater plan.

Murderous Anti-Semitism (vv. 5–6)

When Haman learns of Mordechai’s refusal, his pride turns to rage. He refuses to punish Mordechai alone and plots the destruction of all Jews in the Persian Empire. This is one of Scripture’s clearest depictions of anti-Semitism as satanically inspired hatred. Haman’s plan echoes the ancient enmity between the seed of the woman and the seed of the serpent (Gen. 3:15). The same hatred that sought to destroy Israel in Esther’s day has continued through the centuries and persists today—but God’s covenant faithfulness guarantees Israel’s national preservation.

The Plan Made (vv. 7–15)

Using superstition and manipulation, Haman casts lots (Purim) to choose the date for his plan of genocide. He presents his scheme to the king with deceptive words, accusing the Jews of disloyalty. The king, unaware of Haman’s true motives, approves the plan and seals it with his signet ring. The chapter ends with confusion in the city of Susa—a kingdom guided by human impulse yet overseen by divine providence. Even here, when evil seems to triumph, God is quietly arranging the steps toward salvation.

Theological Reflection

I think this chapter of Esther reminds us that divine providence is not always visible, but it is always active. Human pride, injustice, and hatred cannot thwart God’s redemptive purposes. The covenant promises given to Abraham stand firm even in exile. For the believer, this chapter teaches that God’s sovereignty often works through the ordinary and the unseen. It teaches that faithfulness counts and will be revealed in due time. In moments when wickedness seems to prosper, we can rest in the assurance that the Judge of all the earth will do right (Gen. 18:25).

For Reflection

If you want to keep on reflecting on this chapter with me here are a few questions to ponder.

1. In light of Jeremiah 29:7 why do you think Haman’s promotion came immediately after Mordechai’s loyalty in saving the king? What is God showing us?

2. How does Mordechai’s refusal to bow illustrate faithfulness under pressure?

3. In what ways do we see the unseen hand of God directing the events of this chapter?

4. What modern parallels might exist to Haman’s hatred and manipulation? How should Christians respond?

5. How is this similar to the plotting of the Jews against Jesus in John 11:47-52?