Esther Accuses Haman: While the events of the preceding chapter mark the beginning of reversals in Esther, there is plenty of suspense as Esther begins to put her plan into action. Although the king has shown favor to Esther and Mordecai, he has given them nothing substantive to save their lives. Haman’s head is covered in grief at the end of chapter 6; it will come under a death sentence in chapter 7. Mordecai was dressed with royal honor in chapter 6; he will be promoted in rank in chapter 8.

7:1–6a As they were drinking wine: The king reassures the queen that his generous offer (stated here for the third time) is still available. She is now ready to explain her petition and request (v. 2). She does so with standard formalities of deference, adding, “If I have found favor with you, O king…