Esther-The Gallows- Haman's Greatest Project

By Mary Vee
Esther 5

From Haman's Journal

Photo Courtesy

My name is Haman. The king promoted me to second in command for the entire Babylon Empire a short time ago. 

I had been in a really good mood after leaving the banquet Queen Esther had invited me to. At first I felt so honored to be the only person asked to attend a meal given for the king. Then I realized the queen would feel duty bound to invite me. 

I was the king's closest advisor and worthy of this privilege. I went home and told my family and friends about my successes after the meal.

And then...

I remembered the disrespectful Mordecai. I told everyone in my home what he had done. They completely understood why I would be upset. The problem was, my anger prevented me from constructing an appropriate punishment for Mordecai.

"That Jew Mordecai sits at the king's gate," I said. "He refuses to stand as I approach then bow in my presence. I deserve to have respect by all people in Babylon."

My wife, Zeresh, paced a few steps. She had a mind for great ideas. My friends sat and talked among themselves. "I know," Zeresh said. "Have a gallows built, seventy-five feet high. In the morning, ask the king to have Mordecai hanged on it. Tomorrow, you'll get his permission easily because the king listens to your advice. You'll hang Mordecai then go to the dinner with the king and queen and be happy." 

My friends talked among themselves then shook their heads. "This is a great idea."

It was a good idea. I called my head servant and said, "Build a gallows seventy-five feet tall. I need this done by morning. Stop every project, and put every man on it. Have it built by my house."

"Yes, my lord." The servant left.

I must admit, hearing the hammers and wood brought me great pleasure. At last, Mordecai would receive his punishment, right here in my own yard.

As the sun set, the workers stopped. I went out to inspect the work. The gallows would not be completed soon enough. "I said the gallows needed to be finished by morning."

"Yes, my lord. They will be."

"It doesn't look like it to me." The head worker stood by me looking at the project. He waited for my word. I said, "Set up crews to work through the night. This project needs to be done quickly." 

"Yes, my lord," he said.

Even thought the hammers banged close to the house, I fell asleep with absolutely no problems. I would win this battle.


...come back to read what happens next.

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sources: New International Version, New King James Version  

1. Why was Haman so happy?
2. What made him angry?
3. What terrible plan did Haman's wife say?
4. Did Haman agree? Why?
5. Describe what Haman had built
6. Did the project come together as fast as Haman wanted?
7. What did Haman order the crew to do?
8. How did Haman sleep that night?

Do you think Haman will win?