(story told in the book of Esther)
Haman was a powerful official who served under King Xerxes of Persia. He held one of the highest positions in the empire and expected everyone to show him honor. When a Jewish man named Mordecai refused to bow before him, Haman’s pride turned to hatred. Instead of punishing only Mordecai, Haman decided to destroy all the Jews living in the kingdom, showing how dangerous pride and anger can become.
Haman convinced the king to issue a decree ordering the destruction of the Jewish people. To decide the date, he cast lots—called “purim.” The decree caused great fear among the Jews, but God was already working behind the scenes. Queen Esther, who was secretly Jewish and the cousin of Mordecai, would soon become the key to their rescue.
While planning Mordecai’s death, Haman built a tall gallows where he intended to hang him. But the same night, the king could not sleep and discovered that Mordecai had once saved his life. The next day, the king asked Haman how to honor someone who pleased him. Thinking the king meant him, Haman suggested a lavish public display. To his shock, he was ordered to honor Mordecai instead.
Later, at Queen Esther’s banquet, Haman’s wicked plan was exposed. Esther revealed that she was Jewish and that Haman’s scheme would have destroyed her and her people. The king was furious and ordered Haman to be executed on the very gallows he had built for Mordecai.
Haman’s story warns against pride, hatred, and selfish ambition. His downfall reminds us that evil plans ultimately fail and that God can turn even the schemes of the wicked into victory for those who trust Him.