Esther ChallengeSample

The day of the edict had come and the tables had completely turned. The Jews overpowered their enemies including Haman’s 10 sons. The King asked Esther if she was satisfied with the outcome and this is where we see Esther fulfilling the meaning of her Hebrew name ‘Hadassah’. She requested for the war to go on for an extra day and for the bodies of Haman’s 10 sons were to be hanged publically. This request was granted and across the whole of Persia the Jews killed 75,000 men without even taking back their possessions. THE IMPORTANCE OF NAMES Esther’s Hebrew name, Hadassah was first mentioned in Chapter 2. The name Hadassah is derived from the Hebrew word ‘hadas’, a myrtle tree. Just as a myrtle has a sweet smell and a bitter taste, so too Esther was good and listened (sweet) to the righteous, and was adverse (bitter) to the wicked as we’ve seen in this chapter. It shows that she wasn’t just a pretty face, but she was zealous about the things that concerned her and her people and she would do anything to ensure their safety. The names of Haman’s sons in Hebrew mean the following: Parshandatha – ‘curious self’, Dalphon – ‘self-pity’, Aspatha – ‘self- sufficient’, Poratha – ‘self-indulgent’, Adalia – ‘humble self.’ Have you ever known someone who is proud of being ‘humble’? Aridatha – ‘strong self’ or ‘self-assertive’, Parmashta – ‘self-ambition’, Arisai – ‘bold self’, Aridai – ‘dignified self’ or ‘I am superior’, Vaizatha – ‘self- righteous’. All of these ‘selves’ were put to death. Isn’t that interesting? Self must die before victory is accomplished. Not only was Haman dead, but now all of his sons whom he arrogantly named after aspects of himself were dead. Haman’s downfall due to his pride was now complete. IT PAYS TO BE LOYAL Mordecai went from rags to riches because of His loyalty to God and to the King. This same loyalty caused the King’s men to support the Jews in battle. Let us learn from Mordecai; to be faithful to God regardless, especially in times when it is easier to conform, and uncomfortable to be different. Be that light in the darkness. Esther was chosen to be queen and raised up with a purpose by the Lord in a time of crisis, to deliver His people. Your purpose will always tie in with someone’s need…embrace it! What are your thoughts? Share them using #EstherChallenge