Definition: Now it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai’s matters would stand: for he had told them that he [was] a Jew.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Esther 3:4. It’s a really important and dramatic piece of the story! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: Haman is plotting to kill Mordecai. He’s setting up a plan to eliminate him. But, he’s deliberately ignoring Esther, who’s trying to persuade him to let Mordecai live. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Now it came to pass…” : This is just an introductory phrase – it’s saying that this situation is happening . It’s a bit dramatic and sets the stage for something significant. “…when they spake daily unto him…” : "Spoke" means talked. “Daily” means repeatedly. Esther was constantly speaking to Haman, trying to convince him to change his mind. "...and he hearkened not unto them..." : This is the key part. He didn’t listen to her. He ignored her pleas and arguments. It's like he was completely dismissing her. "...that they told Haman, to see whether Mordecai’s matters would stand…” : This is where it gets important. Esther is giving him a task – she’s asking him to figure out if Mordecai’s life is safe. “…for he had told them that he [was] a Jew.” This is the crucial detail. Haman told him that he was Jewish. This is a deliberately misleading statement! He's trying to make it seem like he's not a threat, when in reality, he’s a dangerous conspirator. In essence: Esther is putting pressure on Haman to stop his plan. He’s using deception – telling him he was Jewish – to manipulate her into inaction. Why is this important? It shows how clever and manipulative evil can be. It highlights the importance of listening to wise counsel, even when it's difficult. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story from Esther 3? Connect this verse to a broader theme in the Bible (like trust or warning)?