Read Esther 3.1-15. In 3.1-15: Mordecai angers Haman. In verse 1: Haman's Agagite identity puts him in tension with the Benjamite Mordecai (1 Sam 15.7-9). In verse 2: As in the case of Vashti's refusal, Mordecai's refusal to bow down is not explained. In verses 4-6: Mordecai having revealed his identity, Haman hatches a plan against all Jews. In verses 7-11: Nisan: As in other post-exilic books, month names are based on the Babylonian calendar. Pur: Akkadian for "lot" (singular, unlike the English usage of "lots"). The date chosen for the pogrom is 11 months hence. In verse 8: Haman does not identify the rebellious people, but argues their danger to the empire. In verse 10; Signet ring: Sign of royal authority. In verse 11: As it seems good to you: As usual, the king lets others decide. In verses 12-15: The edict, which bears the all the royal trappings, allows destruction and plunder of the Jewish people. Coldly, the men drink after issuing a decree of death. Comments or Questions..
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