Haman

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Uncertain; likely of Persian/Elamite origin (the Hebrew text preserves the foreign name without explanation)
• Period/Era: Exilic
• Main References: Esther 3–9
• Key Connections: King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I); Queen Esther; Mordecai; identified as “the Agagite” (Esther 3:1)

Who was Haman?

Haman was a high-ranking official in the Persian court of King Ahasuerus.
He is introduced as an “Agagite” and elevated above other nobles (Esther 3:1).
After conflict with Mordecai, he sought state authorization to destroy the Jews in the empire.
His plans were overturned through Esther’s intervention and royal decree.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Secured a royal decree to annihilate the Jews throughout the Persian provinces, setting the date by casting Pur (lots) (Esther 3).
• Event 2: Built gallows intended for Mordecai and maneuvered at court to obtain Mordecai’s execution (Esther 5–6).
• Event 3: Was condemned and hanged on the gallows he had prepared, and his estate was given to Esther (Esther 7–8).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Haman’s rise and fall in Esther portrays how imperial power can be used for targeted violence yet can be reversed within royal politics and providential timing.

Key Verse

“So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then the wrath of the king abated.” — Esther 7:10, ESV