Esther 8: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Esther 8 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Esther receives Haman's estate from King Ahasuerus, who gives his ring to Mordecai, appointing him over Haman's house (vv. 1-2). Esther appeals to the king, pleading for the reversal of Haman's plan to destroy the Jews (vv.

Key verse

“Write also to the Jews, as it pleases you, in the king’s name, and seal it with the king’s ring; for the writing which is written in the king’s name, and sealed with the king’s ring, may not be reversed by any man.”
Esther 8:8 (WEB)

Outline

Esther 8:1–2 Esther Receives Haman's Estate
Esther 8:3–6 Esther Appeals for Her People
Esther 8:7–8 The King's Response to Esther
Esther 8:9–10 Mordecai Writes the New Edict
Esther 8:11–14 Decree Grants Defense to Jews
Esther 8:15–16 Mordecai's New Position and Joy
Esther 8:17 Celebration Among the Jews

Discussion questions

In v1, what action does King Ahasuerus take regarding Haman's estate?
What does Esther do in v3 when she speaks to the king?
In vv. 11-12, what does the new decree allow the Jews to do against their enemies?
Mordecai's royal clothing in v15: what does this signify about his change in status?
When have you felt the need to advocate for someone like Esther does in v3?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Esther 8: Esther 9, Esther 3, Esther 1.

Before next time: read Esther 9.