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◄ Unholy Fear: Haman►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Haman, a central figure in the Book of Esther, is often remembered for his unholy fear and malevolent actions against the Jewish people. As a high-ranking official in the Persian Empire under King Xerxes (Ahasuerus), Haman's account is a cautionary tale of pride, hatred, and the destructive power of fear when it is not rooted in reverence for God.

Background and Rise to Power

Haman is introduced inEsther 3:1 as the son of Hammedatha the Agagite, elevated by King Xerxes to a position above all other nobles. His lineage as an Agagite is significant, as it connects him to the Amalekites, long-standing enemies of Israel (Exodus 17:8-16;1 Samuel 15). This historical enmity sets the stage for Haman's animosity towards the Jews.

Haman's Unholy Fear and Hatred

Haman's unholy fear is first evident in his reaction to Mordecai, a Jew who refuses to bow down to him.Esther 3:5-6 states, "When Haman saw that Mordecai would not kneel or pay him homage, he was filled with rage. And when he learned the identity of Mordecai’s people, he scorned the idea of laying hands on Mordecai alone. Instead, he sought to destroy all the Jews, the people of Mordecai, throughout the kingdom of Xerxes."

Haman's fear is not of God but of losing respect and power. His pride is wounded by Mordecai's refusal to bow, and this slight becomes the catalyst for his genocidal plot. Haman's fear is rooted in self-preservation and ego, leading him to manipulate the king into issuing a decree for the annihilation of the Jews (Esther 3:8-11).

The Plot and Its Downfall

Haman's plan is meticulously crafted, as he casts lots (Purim) to determine the date for the destruction of the Jews (Esther 3:7). His fear-driven hatred blinds him to the moral and spiritual implications of his actions. However, his plot is ultimately thwarted by the courage and faith of Esther and Mordecai, who trust in God's providence.

Esther's bravery in approaching the king uninvited (Esther 4:16) and her strategic banquets reveal the stark contrast between her faith and Haman's fear. Haman's downfall is swift and ironic; the gallows he prepares for Mordecai becomes the instrument of his own execution (Esther 7:9-10).

Theological Implications

Haman's account illustrates the destructive nature of unholy fear, which is rooted in pride and self-interest rather than a reverent fear of God.Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." Haman's lack of this fear leads to his ultimate ruin.

His narrative serves as a reminder of the spiritual battle between good and evil, and the importance of aligning one's fears and actions with God's will. Haman's unholy fear contrasts sharply with the faith and courage of Esther and Mordecai, who demonstrate that true fear of the Lord leads to deliverance and victory.

Legacy

The Jewish festival of Purim commemorates the deliverance of the Jews from Haman's plot, celebrating God's providence and the triumph of faith over fear. Haman's legacy is one of infamy, serving as a warning against the perils of pride and unholy fear. His account is a testament to the sovereignty of God and the ultimate futility of opposing His divine plan.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Esther 7:6
And Esther said, The adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman. Then Haman was afraid before the king and the queen.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Hebrew Captives; Or, Mordecai and Esther.
... It seems also as if some latentfear thatHaman... For her he hungHaman's ten sons
on the gallows... was once the quiet breath of a mother'sunholy influence leading...

The Providence of God
... to his own nature, he cannot do anyunholy action, any more... but let us not make things
worse by ourfear.... Esther to preserve alive the Jews, whenHaman had got...

A Little Sanctuary
... Elijah was hunted by Jezebel, Mordecai was hated byHaman; and yet... We will notfear
though earth be moved... The world is anunholy place, and at times it is most...

The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate,
... is an Advocate with the Father, an Advocate for us, Ifear the excellency... finding
fault therewith.-2. He pleads God's interest in his people.-Haman's mishap in...

The Pharisee and the Publican
... It is said of the unjust judge, "he said within himself, Though Ifear not God... Temporal
things God giveth to the unthankful andunholy: nor doth he use to sell...

A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican
... It is said of the unjust judge, "he said within himself, Though Ifear not God... Temporal
things God giveth to the unthankful andunholy; nor doth he use to SELL...