Topical Encyclopedia The term "Agagite" is primarily associated with Haman, a central antagonist in the Book of Esther. The designation "Agagite" is mentioned in Esther 3:1, where Haman is introduced: "After these events, King Xerxes honored Haman son of Hammedatha the Agagite, elevating him and giving him a seat of honor higher than that of all the other nobles" . The identification of Haman as an Agagite has significant implications within the narrative and historical context of the Hebrew Scriptures.Historical and Biblical Context The term "Agagite" is believed to be linked to Agag, a title or name associated with the kings of the Amalekites, a people who were long-standing enemies of Israel. The Amalekites first appear in the biblical narrative during the Exodus, where they attacked the Israelites at Rephidim (Exodus 17:8-16). This enmity continued throughout Israel's history, culminating in God's command to King Saul to utterly destroy the Amalekites, including their king, Agag (1 Samuel 15:1-3). Saul's failure to fully obey this command led to his rejection as king (1 Samuel 15:26-28). The association of Haman with the Agagites suggests a continuation of this ancient hostility. The narrative in Esther portrays Haman as a descendant of this line, thus symbolizing the enduring enmity between the Amalekites and the Israelites. This connection is further emphasized by Haman's plot to annihilate the Jewish people throughout the Persian Empire (Esther 3:6). Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the identification of Haman as an Agagite underscores the theme of divine justice and the fulfillment of God's promises. The Book of Esther, while not explicitly mentioning God, demonstrates His providential care and protection over His people. The downfall of Haman, who sought to destroy the Jews, is seen as a manifestation of divine retribution against the enemies of God's chosen people. The narrative also highlights the reversal of fortunes, a common motif in biblical literature. Haman's plot to hang Mordecai, a Jew, on the gallows he constructed ultimately leads to his own execution on those same gallows (Esther 7:9-10). This outcome serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that those who oppose God's purposes will ultimately face judgment. Cultural and Literary Aspects In the cultural and literary context of the Book of Esther, the term "Agagite" serves to heighten the tension and drama of the account. It evokes the historical memory of the Amalekite threat and sets the stage for the dramatic deliverance of the Jewish people. The narrative structure of Esther, with its intricate plot and character development, uses the Agagite identity of Haman to reinforce the themes of enmity, justice, and divine intervention. The account of Esther and Haman the Agagite is commemorated annually in the Jewish festival of Purim, which celebrates the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman's plot. This festival serves as a perpetual reminder of God's faithfulness and the triumph of good over evil. Conclusion The term "Agagite" in the Book of Esther is rich with historical, theological, and literary significance. It connects the narrative to the broader biblical theme of the struggle between Israel and its enemies, while also illustrating the providential care of God for His people. Through the downfall of Haman, the Agagite, the account of Esther affirms the ultimate victory of God's purposes in history. Smith's Bible Dictionary Agagite[AGAG] Easton's Bible Dictionary A name applied to Haman and also to his father (Esther 3:1, 10; 8:3, 5). Probably it was equivalent to Amalekite. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia AGAGITEa'-gag-it, ('aghaghi, from, 'aghagh, "a member of the house of Agag"): A title of opprobrium given to Haman (Esther 3:1, 10; Esther 8:3, 5; 9:24). Jewish tradition always assigned the arch-enemies of Israel membership in the house of Amalek, the hereditary foe of the nation. Compare Ant, XI, vi, 5. The word Agag has properly been taken by Delitzsch as related to the Assyrian agagu, "to be powerful," "vehement," "angry." In the Greek parts of Esther, Haman is termed a Macedonian (Esther 1:2-6; Esther 1:6-10). The name Haman is probably of Elamitic origin. Oppert's attempt to connect the term "Agagite" with "Agaz," a Median tribe mentioned by Sargon, has found no supporters. See AGAG. Strong's Hebrew 91. Agagi -- a descriptive term for Haman... 90, 91. Agagi. 92 . a descriptive term for Haman. Transliteration: Agagi Phonetic Spelling: (ag-aw-ghee') Short Definition: Agagite. ... Agagite. ... /hebrew/91.htm - 6k Library The Net Broken The Net Spread The Wall Rebuilt. In the Days of Queen Esther Queen Esther's Love for Her People Esther The Saint's Heritage and Watchword Book 11 Footnotes Book 5 Footnotes The Greek Versions as Aids to Biblical Study. Thesaurus Agagite (5 Occurrences)... Standard Bible Encyclopedia. AGAGITE. ... Oppert's attempt to connect the term "Agagite" with "Agaz," a Median tribe mentioned by Sargon, has found no supporters. ... /a/agagite.htm - 9k Ag'agite (5 Occurrences) Hammedatha (5 Occurrences) Devised (35 Occurrences) Hammeda'tha (5 Occurrences) Device (17 Occurrences) Pur (3 Occurrences) Agag (6 Occurrences) Designs (118 Occurrences) Hater (72 Occurrences) Resources Who was Haman the Agagite? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Esther was appointed “for such a time as this”? | GotQuestions.org Who was Mordecai in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Agagite (5 Occurrences)Esther 3:1 Esther 3:10 Esther 8:3 Esther 8:5 Esther 9:24 Subtopics Related Terms |