Haman Hangs

Summary

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"Haman Hangs" – The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein

Podcast Host: Yael Eckstein
Produced by: Pray.com
Date: September 26, 2025

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Overview

In this episode, "Haman Hangs," Yael Eckstein narrates the dramatic climax of the Book of Esther, focusing on the downfall of Haman and the triumph of Esther’s courage. The episode immerses listeners in the ancient Persian court, highlighting Esther’s bravery, the revelation of her identity, and the swift retribution against Haman—who plotted against the Jewish people. Through captivating storytelling, the episode underscores timeless lessons of faith, justice, and the importance of speaking out.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Trap Set for Mordecai Turns on Haman

• (04:26 – 05:32)
  Haman's pride and previous triumph are reversed. As he prepares for the queen’s banquet, the ominous presence of the gallows—built for Mordecai but destined for him—sets the narrative tone.
• Haman is publicly shamed, and his ominous fall foreshadowed:
  • “The trap was set, but not for the man it was built for.” (00:52, Narrator)

2. The Banquet: Esther’s Moment of Truth

• (05:32 – 10:39)
  At the lavish royal banquet, Queen Esther prepares to address King Xerxes with her true petition.
• The tension rises as Esther contemplates the risk of revealing her identity and request for her people.
• Esther’s poise and faith, strengthened by days of fasting and prayer, come to the fore:
  • “With each breath she willed her courage to rise, and she was surprised to find that her voice remained calm and steady.” (07:02, Narrator)

3. The Accusation: Esther Confronts the King

• (10:19 – 12:51)
  King Xerxes, eager to please Esther, urges her to speak:
  • “My queen, I can no longer wait. What is your petition? Whatever you desire, up to half my kingdom, it shall be given.” (10:19, King Xerxes)
• Esther bravely reveals the threat against her life and her people:
  • “If I have found favor with you, your majesty, and if the king is pleased, spare my life. This is my request.” (10:39, Esther)
  • She exposes Haman as the author of the edict:
    • “The adversary and enemy of my people is this evil. Haman.” (12:31, Esther)
• Ripples of shock move through the court, and the king is furious, realizing Haman’s betrayal.

4. Xerxes’ Rage and Haman’s Desperation

• (12:51 – 16:40)
  King Xerxes grapples with the implications of his own decree and his misplaced trust:
  • “Can I…undo a decree sealed by my own ring? Was I blind? Or manipulated by the man I trusted most?” (14:07, King Xerxes)
• Haman, in abject terror, begs Esther for mercy:
  • “Have mercy. …I swear it. Have mercy.” (15:37, Haman)
• Esther’s response reveals a shift from powerlessness to righteous anger:
  • “You would only spare me because I have a title, Because I have privilege. What of my people? What of the hundreds of thousands of innocents throughout Persia?” (15:57, Esther)

5. Haman’s Ultimate Downfall

• (16:40 – 19:30)
  The king returns and, witnessing Haman’s physical desperation, erupts:
  • “Oh, would he violate my queen while I am in the house?” (16:40, King Xerxes)
• Xerxes tears the signet ring from Haman’s hand and orders the guards to seize him. The hangman’s gallows, built by Haman, becomes his own end:
  • “Hang Haman on it.” (18:51, King Xerxes)
  • Haman is executed on the very gallows he intended for Mordecai.

6. The Impact and Unresolved Danger

• (19:30 – 20:11)
  The king’s edict against the Jews still stands, reminding listeners that, despite Haman’s fall, Esther’s struggle for her people’s survival is not over.
• The episode closes with a sense of soberness:
  • “The enemy of the Jews was vanquished, but the king's edict still loomed sharp as any sword. The danger was far from over.” (19:58, Narrator)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

| Timestamp | Speaker | Quote | |-----------|----------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 00:52 | Narrator | "The trap was set, but not for the man it was built for." | | 10:19 | King Xerxes | "My queen, I can no longer wait. What is your petition? Whatever you desire, up to half my kingdom, it shall be given." | | 10:39 | Esther | "If I have found favor with you, your majesty, and if the king is pleased, spare my life. This is my request." | | 12:31 | Esther | "The adversary and enemy of my people is this evil. Haman." | | 14:07 | King Xerxes | "Can I…undo a decree sealed by my own ring? Was I blind? Or manipulated by the man I trusted most?" | | 15:57 | Esther | "You would only spare me because I have a title, Because I have privilege. What of my people? What of the hundreds of thousands of innocents throughout Persia?" | | 16:40 | King Xerxes | "Oh, would he violate my queen while I am in the house?" | | 18:51 | King Xerxes | "Hang Haman on it." | | 19:58 | Narrator | "The enemy of the Jews was vanquished, but the king's edict still loomed sharp as any sword. The danger was far from over." |

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:52 – The trap for Mordecai is set to ensnare Haman instead
• 05:32 – The queen’s banquet: Setting and rising tensions
• 10:19 – King Xerxes invites Esther to reveal her true petition
• 12:31 – Esther identifies Haman as the enemy
• 14:07 – Xerxes’ self-doubt and rage
• 15:37 – Haman’s terrified pleas for mercy
• 16:40 – Haman is accused of assault, seized by the guards
• 18:51 – Xerxes orders Haman to be hanged on his own gallows
• 19:58 – Reflection: Edict still threatens the Jews despite Haman's execution

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Tone and Style

The episode is narrated with a blend of reverent drama and emotional intensity, staying true to the monumental stakes and moral gravitas of the biblical episode. Esther’s courage is depicted with tenderness and awe, while the tension in the royal court is palpable—a mix of indignation, fear, and justice finally served.

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Final Blessing

Yael Eckstein ends with a heartfelt benediction from Numbers 6, inviting listeners to draw inspiration and boldness from the story’s ancient faith.

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face shine upon you. May he be gracious to you. May the Lord turn His face towards you and give you peace.” (21:41, Yael Eckstein)

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Summary prepared for those seeking depth, inspiration, and the enduring lessons of justice and faith from the Book of Esther.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Previously on the Chosen People.

[King Xerxes]

Do not fret, Mordecai the Jew. You will not need to wait long to meet your fleet. He must be made in example. His death must be public and most importantly, brutal. Let all Jews know my word. Seal with the King's ring is law. I will not be mocked. I will not be undermined.

[Narrator]

On the seventh day of the month, two royal guards conspired against the King. The plot was uncovered and reported by Mordecai.

[King Xerxes]

What honor or reward was given to the man? Hurry and do just as you proposed. For Mordecai the Jew who sits at the city gate to take my own garment and a horse from my stables.

[Narrator]

For him, the words struck like a hammer blow. Haemon's vision blurred. His stomach twisted. Yes, in that moment, Haman knew the winds had shifted and the rope he had ordered was tightening around his own neck. Outside, the gallows loomed in the midday sun, a monument to pride, an omen of doom. The trap was set, but not for the man it was built for.

[Esther]

This is an iHeart podcast. You can make a difference in someone's.

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[Esther]

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[Yael Eckstein]

Shalom, my friends. From here in the Holy Land of Israel, I'm Yael Eckstein with International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. And welcome to the chosen people. Each day we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible. Stories filled with timeless lessons of faith, love and the meaning of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this truth that we are all chosen for something great. So take a moment today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling extra grateful for these stories, we would love it if you left us a review. I read every single one of them. And if you're interested in hearing more about the prophetic life saving work of the fellowship, you can visit ifcj.org let's begin.

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[Narrator]

Heyman sat in silence long after his wife and his friends had gone. The afternoon was turning to evening fast, too fast for comfort. Dark, leering shadows mocked him as the time for the queen's banquet drew nearer and nearer. His wife's chilling, final words to him still echoed in his mind.

[Esther]

Your downfall has already begun.

[Narrator]

Before he could rise to shake the dread from his bones, there was an ominous knock at the door that reverberated through the stone corridors of the estate. One of his servants answered, and mere moments later Memukan, the king's eunuch, appeared, sneering in Haman's entryway. He could scarcely contain his malicious glee at Haman's damaged social standing due to his very public shaming earlier, the sight of his greedy smile made Haman's stomach turn.

[King Xerxes]

Lord Haman, the queen's banquet awaits.

[Narrator]

The king has summoned you. The very banquet he once anticipated, he now dreaded. It was an uncomfortable ride with Momooken in the royal carriage sent from the palace. When they arrived, Momooken slunk off to the edges of the grand hall as he was not invited to dine with the queen. At least in that regard, Haman was still favoured. He took solace in that, but there was not much else to be grateful for after the terrible reversal of fate earlier, the palace dining hall glistened with gold and candlelight. Rich tapestries draped the walls, and delicate crystal goblets sparkled beneath the soft glow. Esther's breath caught as she took in the scene once again. Hettarck's careful touch had transformed the room. Platters of roasted meats glistened with fragrant steam Mingling with the scents of honeyed dates, warm bread and spiced wine. The table was an opulent masterpiece, each detail more lavish than the last. Esther steadied herself, smoothing her gown, every movement measured. Her heart fluttered, but she fought to keep her face serene. She took her place, standing tall and waited to greet her husband. The doors opened with a flourish. King Xerxes swept into the room, surrounded by his hand selected nobleman and an entourage of loyal attendants, including the young Jewish cupbearer from the last banquet. Esther's demeanor eased at the sight of him. It comforted her that she was not the only Jew in the palace tonight. Perhaps this was a sign that the God of their shared homeland was with them. The king's grin was wide and eager, like a child anticipating ripping into a long awaited gift. His eyes sparkled with curiosity. Esther bowed low. When she rose, he gently lifted her chin and kissed her forehead. She met his gaze with a soft, radiant smile, determined to remain in his favor even as the weight of her request pressed heavily on her heart. Haman arrived shortly after the king, flanked by one of the king's eunuchs, Mamukan. Esther knew of him but little else, yet his sharp glance toward Haman told her more than words could. There was no warmth between them. Mamookun bowed low before the king, then slipped to the edge of the grand dining hall, blending into the cluster of attendants and noblemen. Esther took note. He was a quiet observer, watching the undercurrents swirl. Just the sort of man her cousin had warned her about in King Xerxe court, always sizing up an opportunity to advance his ambitions. Esther's eyes returned to Haman. His unbridled lust for power dwarfed Mamukum or anyone else she had seen in the king's court. Though his condescending charm seemed somewhat dampened from what it was yesterday. She forced herself to stand and offer Haemon the seat of honor across from her beside the king. Her pulse quickened. She met Haman's eyes with a smile so carefully practiced it felt brittle in her cheeks. Esther sat poised throughout the meal, reclining on the couch as was the day's custom. At the edge of the lavish table beside the king, she spoke little, offering soft smiles and polite nods while reminding herself that she and her people and her newfound loyal friends had fasted and prayed for three days for this moment. With each breath she willed her courage to rise, and she was surprised to find that her voice remained calm and steady. The rich aromas of roasted meats and spiced bread had faded, and now the servants crept through the room, refilling goblets with fine wine, a longling. The young Jewish cupbearer approached the king, his movements precise and practiced. Esther did not look directly at him, but his quiet presence steadied her heart. As the moment drew nearer, the king reclined beside her, swirling his cup, his curiosity building with every moment. At last, as soon as decorum allowed, he leaned toward her, his eyes bright with anticipation.

[King Xerxes]

My queen, I can no longer wait. What is your petition? Whatever you desire, up to half my kingdom, it shall be given.

[Narrator]

Esther's breath came, slow and deliberate. The weight of the moment pressed down on her. The room fell silent.

[Esther]

If I have found favor with you, your majesty, and if the king is pleased, spare my life. This is my request.

[Narrator]

The king's brow furrowed. Haman's eyes narrowed over the goblet he had just raised to his lips.

[King Xerxes]

Your life. What. What do. What do you mean? Who would dare threaten the queen?

[Narrator]

Esther's heart pounded in her chest. She could sense the protective edge in the king's voice. She just hoped that it would last. As she continued in her request, she had heard from Hettarg how the king's anger had turned on Queen Vashti and how she was banished from Persia because of it. But despite the gnawing apprehension of what she was about to do, Esther met the king's gaze with a strength she didn't know she possessed, her voice clear, unwavering.

[Esther]

Yes. I ask for my life for my people, and I have been sold to destruction and annihilation. If it were mere slavery, I would have remained silent. But this evil cannot be ignored.

[Narrator]

The king sat up straight, his face darkening. She could see his eyes calculating, searching, his anger rising at this ignorance of a policy in his court.

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[King Xerxes]

Who is this? And where is the one who would devise such escape?

[Narrator]

Esther turned her gaze slowly, deliberately. Before she spoke, she looked once more to the young cupbearer. He met her gaze, a flicker of solidarity in his eyes. Whether he realized what he did or not, he gave the smallest nod. Courage surged within her, and then she.

[Esther]

My people are the Jews of Israel, and we have been marked for extermination by royal edict on the 13th day of Adar in the 12th month of the year. But the man who authored the edict in the king's authority is here. The adversary and enemy of my people is this evil. Haman.

[Narrator]

Gasps rippled through the room. Haman's face drained of color. The shock that washed over his features was unmistakable. He had not Known, the very woman whose favor he had basked in was now his opponent. The shy young girl whose beauty had turned the head of the king was now a monarch in her own right. She was an unexpected force, rising against him, threatening to topple his foul reign. Xerxes fury erupted. He rose, knocking over his goblet, wine spilling like blood across the table. He whirled on Haman, cowering on the floor like a worm, and looked as though he might strike him for a moment, but then thought better of it. Without a word, he stormed into the garden, his mind racing. Hettar could explain the stakes to Esther. He she knew that whether or not Xerxes had penned the edict, it still carried his authority. And as her cousin Mordecai had always taught her, the king's word was law. Outside, Xerxes paced furiously. His pride warred with his conscience.

[King Xerxes]

Can I. Can I undo a decree sealed by my own ring? Was I blind? Or manipulated by the man I trusted most?

[Narrator]

He clenched his fists. Rage simmered beneath the surface.

[King Xerxes]

Ensnared me in one of his political schemes. This is how he rewards my favor. But was it ignorance or willful deceit?

[Narrator]

His thoughts turned darker.

[King Xerxes]

If he dared plot against my queen, how long before he sets his sight on his king?

[Narrator]

Xerxes breath came fast and shallow. The fury in him boiled, seeking a place to land inside the hall around Esther exploded into unabashed chatter in the king's absence of what had just taken place. Soon the halls of the palace and the streets of Susa would be buzzing with the queen's request and her accus, the declaration of her heritage revealed at last. In the chaos, Esther noticed the eunuch Munucan lingering in the shadows, eyes sharp, plans forming, taking it all in. Across from Esther, Haman turned desperate. He stumbled to her side of the table and fell at her feet.

[King Xerxes]

How begged you? I didn't know her. Had I known my queen wasn't you, I never would have. I never would have. Believe me, my queen, I swear it. Have mercy.

[Narrator]

Her fury rose in Esther, foreign but fearsome.

[Esther]

You would only spare me because I have a title, Because I have privilege. What of my people? What of the hundreds of thousands of innocents throughout Persia?

[Narrator]

Esther's anger drew out new depths of Haman's desperation as he sobbed in terror and grasped for her wrists. Esther recoiled, but he clung to her, his fear suffocating.

[Esther]

Get off me. Let go.

[Narrator]

At that very moment, the king re entered. He froze at the sight of Haman sprawled across the queen's couch, clawing at her hands, trying to control her, he roared over the chaos in the banquet hall.

[King Xerxes]

Oh, would he violate my queen while I am in the house?

[Narrator]

The room fell into stunned silence. The royal guard surged forward, tearing Haemon off of Esther. Haemon's knees scraped the floor as they dragged him to his feet, where he swayed. Dazed and horrified, Xerxes stormed forward, his face etched in fury. He seized Haemon savagely by the front of his robe, pulling him close enough for their breath to mingle. One wheezed with terror, the other burning with rage. Esther wanted desperately to look away from the feral violence, but found in her shock, she could not tear her eyes away. Then, with a violent lunge, Xerxes ripped the signet ring from Haman's trembling right hand. Esther winced as the flesh of his knuckles scraped against the engraved gold. Blood welled, but it went unnoticed by the dumbstruck Haman. The king then hurled the ring across the floor. In his unbridled fury. The heavy gold struck stone with a sharp, echoing clang. Every head turned. The sound rang with an eerie finality. Haman's fate was sealed. The guards yanked a black cloth over Haman's head, a mark of shame and final condemnation, as the king turned away in disgust, weighing not if Haman would die, but how. Esther collapsed into her seat and let out a shaky breath as her heart rate began to slow. After the commotion, the king was still shouting and reeling in anger as his attendants and noblemen clamored around him, their voices a frenzy of counsel and caution. Esther noticed Momukun slink forward like a snake in the grass, his voice oily and precise.

[King Xerxes]

My king. A gallows stands at Hegman's estate, 70ft high.

[Narrator]

It was built just.

[King Xerxes]

Just last night. It was built for Mordecai, the very man who saved your life.

[Narrator]

Esther's eyes widened in horror. If her banquet had been delayed, would Haemon have executed her cousin? Esther trembled at the thought, but Xerxes face hardened into stone. Hang Haman or me. The gods dragged Haemon from the hall. His struggles were useless, his cries drowned beneath the weight of royal decree. From across the hall, the young cupbearer met Esther's gaze again, his face grave. He had seen the fall of the mighty. He would remember this night moments later. Across town, the gallows outside Haman's home held its builder. His body hung impaled 75ft above the ground, a gruesome sight, taller than any tree for all of Susa to behold. The enemy of the Jews was vanquished, but the king's edict still loomed sharp as any sword. The danger was far from over.

[Esther]

You can make a difference in someone's.

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[Esther]

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[Yael Eckstein]

If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and it has affected your life, we'd love it if you left a review. We read them and me personally, I cherish them. As you venture forth boldly and faithfully, I leave you with the biblical Blessing from Numbers 6. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face shine upon you. May he be gracious to you. May the Lord turn His face towards you and give you peace.

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[Production Credits Narrator]

You can listen to the Chosen People with Yao Eckstein ad free by downloading and subscribing to the pray.com app today. This pray.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Cattina, Max Bard, Zach Schellewager and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People with Yael Eckstein. Edited by Alberto Avila Narrated by Paul Coltofianu Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky, and the opening prayer is voiced by John Moore music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosalie and Chris Baig. Special thanks to Bishop Paul Lanier, Robin Van Etten, Caleb Burrows, Jocelyn Fuller, Rabbi Edward Abramson and the team at International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. You can hear more Pray.com productions on the Pray.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the Chosen People with Yael Eckstein, please rate and leave a review.

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