Bible Strands
Esther 5:12
“What is more,” Haman added, “Queen Esther invited no one but me to join the king at the banquet she prepared, and I am invited back tomorrow along with the king.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Haman speaks to his household after listing his wealth and royal promotions, reporting that Queen Esther invited only him to the first banquet and will host him again with the king tomorrow.
The words — The Hebrew אַ֣ף (’af) literally means “also” or “yet,” marking Haman’s continued enumeration of his status. The verb הֵבִיאָה (he.vi.’Ah) translates “she let come” or “she brought,” noting Esther’s specific action of excluding all others.
The thread — This isolated elevation aligns with the transient flourishing of the ruthless in Psalms 37:35 and Job 8:12, while standing opposite the Proverbs 27:1 warning against presuming tomorrow.
Why it lands — The verse records Haman’s factual claim of exclusive favor before any reversal occurs. It asks the reader to note how human honor operates in isolation and to observe the narrative pattern without adding comfort or judgment.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
Haman said moreover, Yea, Esther the queen did let no man come in with the king unto the banquet that she had prepared but myself; and to morrow am I invited unto her also with the king.
Cross-references
- Proverbs 27:1 Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.
- Psalms 37:35 I have seen a wicked, ruthless man flourishing like a well-rooted native tree,
- Job 8:12 While the shoots are still uncut, they dry up more quickly than grass.
- Job 20:5 the triumph of the wicked has been brief and the joy of the godless momentary?
- Proverbs 7:22 He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer bounding into a trap,
- Luke 21:34 But watch yourselves, or your hearts will be weighed down by dissipation, drunkenness, and the worries of life—and that day will spring upon you suddenly like a snare.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:3 While people are saying, “Peace and security,” destruction will come upon them suddenly, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.