A restless night was experienced by many in Shushan. Haman spent the night constructing gallows on his property, so he could hang Mordecai on them. Esther spent a restless night preparing for the banquet she would throw the next day for Haman and the king. The king spent a restless night filled with insomnia. He called for the history of the realm to be read; and even that didn't put him to sleep! Finally, he heard of the works of Mordecai in protecting his life. A search of the history books showed that nothing had been done for Mordecai in the way of a reward for his efforts.
Haman, who is arriving early at the palace asking for permission to hang Mordecai, is asked by the king "What should be done to honor the one the king seeks to honor?" Haman selfishly answers, hoping that he will be the one honored. What a surprise to learn that he would carry out those details to show the king's honor with Mordecai!
At the banquet, Esther reveals that she and her people have been sold into annihilation. The king - rightly outraged that one would attempt to take the life of the queen - asks for the identity of the guilty party. It is Haman! In attempting to plead for his life, Haman is mistakenly accused of accosting the queen. He is taken and hung on his own gallows; and his property becomes the possession of Esther and Mordecai!
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