Esther 3 in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible depicts a pivotal moment in the story of Esther. The chapter begins with King Ahasuerus promoting Haman, an Agagite, to a high position in his kingdom. The king commands his servants to bow down and pay homage to Haman whenever he passes by, as a sign of respect for his new status.
However, Mordecai, a Jewish man and Esther's cousin, refuses to bow down to Haman, citing his loyalty to God. This deeply offends Haman, and he becomes filled with wrath. Instead of seeking revenge solely against Mordecai, Haman cunningly devises a plan to annihilate all the Jews throughout the kingdom.
Haman approaches King Ahasuerus and convinces him to issue a decree allowing the destruction of the Jewish people on a specific day. The king grants Haman his request, unaware of the target of this decree. Letters are sent throughout the kingdom, commanding the people to rise up against the Jews and plunder their possessions.