Session 3: Haman plots to annihilate the Jews, Mordecai honored
The characters
Xerxes, king of Persia
Haman, the new prime minister
Esther (formerly Hadassah), the new queen - but secretly a Jew
Mordecai, palace official, and cousin (some translations say uncle) of Esther
Synopsis
(3: 1-5) Haman promoted to prime minister, Mordecai refuses to kneel to him
(3: 6-15) Haman plots to kill all the Jews, date is set, notices sent to the provinces
(4) Mordecai asks for Esther's help (not in the film)
(5: 9-14) Haman plots to kill Mordecai
(6) Haman humiliated as he leads a parade honoring Mordecai
Introduction (15 min)
Opening prayer
Read Esther 3-4, and 5:9 - 6
Chapter B or 13 (Catholic Bible) has the text of the king's edict, rather vague in that it does not mention the Jews by name - as Haman sought to keep it quiet they were the target.
Chapter C or 14 (Catholic Bible) contains the prayers of Mordecai and Esther.
Chapter D or 15 (Catholic Bible) has the reception of Esther and her reconciliation with the king.
