Afflicted by insomnia, King Ahasuerus requests that the royal records be read to him. Providentially, the report of Mordecai’s heroism regarding his disclosure of the assassination plot is read by the attendant. Rather than falling asleep, the king becomes intrigued by the details of the account and asks if the hero has been honored for his bravery (6:3). The king’s attendant replies that nothing has been done to honor him. Eager to recompense the one who saved his life, the king asks who is in the court in order to discuss the best possible way to honor this brave man. The timing could not be better! Haman has just entered the courtyard to approach the king with his despicable request for permission to impale Mordecai (6:4).

Summoned to the king’s presence, Haman rushes to his side anti…