After being exalted to the highest seat of honor, pompous and egotistical Haman begins to receive reverence and admiration by all, except by Mordecai, who refuses to bow down and kneel before him at the king’s gate (3:2). His courageous behavior mirrors that of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who categorically refuse to bow before the statue of Nebuchadnezzar, a daring move that earns them a visit to the fiery furnace (Dan. 3:1–21). In both accounts, God intervenes, delivers his servants from certain death, and exalts them to positions of leadership in the kingdom.

Informed by royal officials that Mordecai is a Jew, Haman devises a plan to exterminate both Mordecai and his people by a royal decree sealed with the signet …