Esther Chapter 3. Haman was a high-ranking official in the Persian Empire under King Ahasuerus. He was a descendant of Agag, the king of the Amalekites—an ancient enemy of the Jewish people.

Mordecai, a Jew, served at the palace gate—likely as a gatekeeper or someone responsible for palace security. By royal decree, all were expected to bow before Haman. However, Mordecai refused, citing his Jewish faith and the historical enmity between Jews and Amalekites. Each time Haman passed the gate and saw Mordecai standing tall, he grew furious. Yet, he restrained himself from acting immediately.

Upon learning that Mordecai was Jewish—and that Jews were scattered across the 127 provinces of the empire—Haman’s anger intensified. Despite his prestigious position, Haman’s character was deeply flawed. His pride and thirst for revenge consumed him, leading him to devise a horrific plan: not only to kill Mordecai, but to annihilate all Jews throughout the empire.

Haman abused his power, manipulating King Ahasuerus into issuing a decree for genocide. Rather than focusing on the empire’s welfare, Haman sowed chaos and fear. His actions revealed him to be an abusive, vengeful, and ruthless leader. The decree he orchestrated threw the city of Susa—the empire’s citadel—into confusion and despair.

When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.
Proverbs 29:2