The answer is: Haman led him through the streets on the king's horse

Esther 6:11

In Esther 6, the story highlights a tremendous ironic twist where Mordecai, initially overlooked and on the margins of power, gets catapulted into the spotlight due to his loyalty to the king. It's fascinating to think about the role perception plays in this narrative. Here, we see Haman, who was second in command and assumed slaying Mordecai would serve his ambitions. Instead, his own self-importance backfires spectacularly.

When Mordecai is led on horseback through the streets adorned in royal glory, it expresses not just a reward but a monumental recognition of loyalty and valor. Interestingly, ancient Near Eastern cultures greatly valued public honor as a way to encourage citizens' fidelity, almost like an early precursor to today’s hero parades. This public recognition cemented Mordecai’s stature while simultaneously disempowering Haman, showing the fickle nature of favor—how quickly fortunes can change.

Another fascinating layer is the significance of the horse itself. In many cultures, horses signify nobility and power—it's not just a ride; it’s a status symbol. Thus, this act reflects the deeper theme of justice in contrast to tyranny, setting the foundation for Mordecai's further influence in helping to protect the Jewish people.

Mordecai's elevation echoing the ancient thread of challenging the powerful is a timeless reminder that integrity and unwavering loyalty often bear fruits far beyond our immediate situational confines.