Chapter 7: Esther’s Bold Revelation and Haman’s Downfall

In this dramatic chapter, Esther finally reveals her secret and exposes Haman’s evil plot to the king. It’s a moment of intense suspense and courage, leading to a swift and decisive reversal of fortunes.

Overview

• The Second Banquet: The king and Haman attend another banquet hosted by Queen Esther.
• Esther’s Plea: Esther finds favour in the king’s eyes and seizes the opportunity to reveal her Jewish identity and the threat against her people.
• The King’s Fury: The king is enraged by Haman’s deception and murderous plot.
• Haman’s Desperation: Haman begs Esther for mercy, falling on her couch in a desperate attempt to save his life.
• Haman’s Doom: The king misinterprets Haman’s actions as an assault on Esther, and orders him to be executed on the very gallows he had built for Mordecai.

Study Questions

1. Timing is Everything: Why do you think Esther waited until the second banquet to reveal her secret?
2. Speaking Truth to Power: What can we learn from Esther’s courage in speaking truth to the king, even though it was risky?
3. The Tables Turned: How does this chapter demonstrate the saying “what goes around comes around”?
4. Justice and Deliverance: How does this chapter reveal God’s justice and deliverance, even though He is not explicitly mentioned?
5. From Fear to Faith: How does this chapter inspire us to overcome fear and stand up for what is right, even when it’s difficult?

Chapter 7 is a pivotal moment in the book of Esther. It’s a reminder that courage, truth, and justice can prevail over evil, and that God can work through unexpected events to protect and deliver His people.