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Book of Esther - Chapter 6 - Verse 13

6:13
And Haman told Zeresh his wife and all his friends every thing that had befallen him. Then said his wise men and Zeresh his wife unto him, If Mordecai be of the seed of the Jews, before whom thou hast begun to fall, thou shalt not prevail against him, but shalt surely fall before him.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Esther, Haman confides in his wife, Zeresh, and his friends about the unfortunate events that have transpired for him. His wise men and wife advise him that if Mordecai, a Jew, is the cause of his downfall, he will not prevail against him. This conversation serves as a turning point in the story, foreshadowing the eventual downfall of Haman. The advice given to him by his wife and wise men highlights the power dynamics at play and the looming consequences of his actions. Despite his position of authority, Haman is warned that his hatred towards Mordecai, simply because of his Jewish heritage, will ultimately lead to his own downfall. This verse reminds the readers of the consequences of one's actions and the importance of humility and respect towards others, regardless of their background or beliefs.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Book of Esther, we see Haman confiding in his wife, Zeresh, and his friends about his encounter with Mordecai, a Jew who he despises. Haman's wise men, along with Zeresh, caution him that if Mordecai is indeed from the Jewish lineage, he will not be able to prevail against him. This warning reflects a common theme in the Bible, where those who oppose God's chosen people ultimately face defeat. The mention of Mordecai being from the seed of the Jews highlights the importance of ancestry and lineage in biblical narratives. The word "fall" used in this context signifies a spiritual and moral downfall rather than just a physical defeat. This verse serves as a reminder that those who go against God's people will ultimately face the consequences of their actions, as divine justice prevails in the end.

American Standard Version

And Haman recounted unto Zeresh his wife and all his friends everything that had befallen him. Then said his wise men and Zeresh his wife unto him, If Mordecai, before whom thou hast begun to fall, be of the seed of the Jews, thou shalt not prevail against him, but shalt surely fall before him.
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