The answer is: Mordecai would not bow down to him

Esther 3:5-6

When we look deeper into the story of Esther, we uncover an intriguing tale of pride, vengeance, and the dramatic twists of fate. Haman, the king’s advisor, felt insulted when Mordecai refused to bow to him. This wasn’t just about an individual slight; Haman had such a fragile ego that he turned defeat into a sweeping desire for revenge against not just Mordecai, but an entire people.

Interestingly, Haman was an Agagite, a descendent of King Agag, which indicates a historical enmity between the Agagites and the Israelites dating back to the biblical figure Saul. So, on one level, this conflict was steeped in longstanding hostilities. Haman’s hatred didn’t just come out of nowhere—it echoed centuries of presenting core themes of loyalty, survival, and identity featured prominently throughout the scriptures.

This dramatic tale also highlights the power dynamics of the Persian Empire and showcases how an individual can become a catalyst for immense societal changes. When Esther, Mordecai’s cousin, steps in, we witness a poignant moment of courage as she defies prevailing norms and risks her life to save her kin. There's a beautiful reminder that courage often comes from unexpected places—a position even a reluctant queen can embrace!

As we reflect on the implications of power, fear, and the choices we make, the Book of Esther poses profound questions about standing up for righteousness and the importance of fighting against unjust persecution—messages that resonate even today.