Esther 9:7 (KJV)

What does Esther 9:7 mean?

Esther 9:7 lists three names—Parshandatha, Dalphon, and Aspatha—who are among the sons of Haman mentioned in the account of the Jews’ deliverance in Persia. This verse is part of a longer list identifying those who were killed as a result of Haman’s plot against the Jews.

In the story, the book of Esther is describing the aftermath of the Jews defending themselves against their enemies. The verse simply records the names of three of Haman’s sons, showing the thorough defeat of Haman’s household. This detail sets up the significance of the Jews’ victory and the reversal of fortunes for Haman’s family.

The Hebrew behind Esther 9:7

• פַּרְשַׁנְדָּתָא (Parshandatha): This is a personal name, likely Persian in origin, and is listed here as the first son of Haman.
• דַּלְפוֹן (Dalphon): Another son of Haman, with a name that is not common elsewhere in the Bible.
• אֲסְפָּתָא (Aspatha): The third son named, also unique to this passage.

These names are included to emphasize the complete downfall of Haman’s family, which was central to the story’s theme of reversal and justice.

Why Esther 9:7 matters

• Listing the names of Haman’s sons highlights the personal and total nature of Haman’s defeat, not just his own death but the end of his lineage.
• Including these names connects this verse to the wider narrative, where the fate of Haman’s family is a key turning point in the story of Esther.
• The verse underscores the fulfillment of justice as seen by the original audience, showing that those who plotted against the Jews faced consequences.