Joe: Alright, so we're talking about Esther 2 now. What's the big story in this chapter?

Bible Expert: Well, Joe, it starts with Mordecai learning of a plot to assassinate King Ahasuerus. After he finds out, he tells Queen Esther who then informs the King. The King then orders that the two men involved in the plot be hanged on a stake.

Joe: Whoa, that's intense! What else happens?

Bible Expert: Well, after that, the King appoints Haman as the chief advisor. Then, Haman orders a decree to be sent out that all of the Jews in the kingdom should be killed.

Joe: Wow, that's terrible. What does Mordecai do?

Bible Expert: He orders a three-day fast for all the Jews in the kingdom and then goes to the King's court to ask for mercy.

Joe: Does it work?

Bible Expert: It does! The King remembers that Mordecai had previously saved his life and then orders that Haman's decree be reversed and that the Jews should be allowed to defend themselves.

Joe: Alright, sounds like things worked out in the end. Anything else we should know?

Bible Expert: Yes, the King grants Mordecai and Esther great honor and then Haman is ultimately hung on the same stake he had ordered for Mordecai.