Haman's Depression and Mordechai's Reward: Understanding Human Nature in Megillat Esther

Rabbi Zweig begins with a detailed psychological analysis of Haman's behavior in Esther 5:11, asking why Haman suddenly shifts from fury at Mordechai to boasting about his wealth and family. He presents a fundamental insight into human psychology: when anger cannot be expressed externally, it turns inward and becomes depression. Haman controlled his rage at the palace and came home depressed, seeking to restore his self-esteem by recounting his achievements. The rabbi identifies a hierarchy of what matters most to people based on Haman's order of consolation: first money (least important), then family, and finally professional success and honor from colleagues (most important). This insight reveals that men are often more motivated by professional recognition than by family relationships, spending time networking and building professional standing rather than being with their children.