Esther 5:4
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“If it pleases the king,” Esther replied, “may the king and Haman come today to the banquet I have prepared for the king.”
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
Esther's Gracious Reception by the King. Haman's Rage against Mordochai - Est 5:1-14 On the third day Esther betook herself in her royal apparel to the inner court of the palace, and was so kindly received by the king, that he promised to grant her any petition she might make; whereupon she requested the king to come with Haman that day to a banquet which she had prepared (Est 5:1-8). On returning from this banquet, Haman saw Mordochai in the king's gate, and when the latter did not bow before him, was so enraged, that, upon the advice of his wife and friends, he resolved to induce the king to permit the execution of Mordochai on the following day (Est 5:9-14).
Open source ↗The last news we had of Haman left him in his cups, Est 3:15. Our last news of queen Esther left her in tears, fasting and praying. Now this chapter brings in, I. Esther in her joys, smiled upon by the king and honoured with his company at her banquet of wine (Est 5:1-8). II. Haman upon the fret, because he had not Mordecai's cap and knee, and with great indignation setting up a gallows for him (Est 5:9-14). Thus those that sow in tears shall reap in joy, but the triumphing of the wicked is short.
Open source ↗5:4 If it please the king: Esther showed proper deference (cp. 1:12).
Open source ↗Original language
The Hebrew and Greek words behind this passage, with Strong's numbers — from openscriptures (CC BY-SA).
Cross-references
Other passages the community most often connects to this one. Tap to read.
A fool vents all his anger, but a wise man holds it back.
If I have found favor in the sight of the king, and if it pleases the king to grant my petition and fulfill my request, may the king and Haman come tomorrow to the banquet I will prepare for them. Then I will answer the king’s question.”
It is well with the man who is generous and lends freely, whose affairs are guided by justice.
Brothers, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be mature.
The couriers left, spurred on by the king’s command, and the edict was issued in the citadel of Susa. Then the king and Haman sat down to drink, but the city of Susa was in confusion.
“Serve me,” said Isaac, “and let me eat some of my son’s game, so that I may bless you.” Jacob brought it to him, and he ate; then he brought him wine, and he drank.
You are also to say, ‘Look, your servant Jacob is right behind us.’” For he thought, “I will appease Esau with the gift that is going before me. After that I can face him, and perhaps he will accept me.”