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Haman exalted by king Ahasuerus who commanded the people to bow before him and to show him reverence. This involved not only kneeling to him but could go as far as to prostrate oneís self before him. It is a religious term such as would be used in worship or falling prostrate before the Lord. As usual, this type of person gains great favor with the one in charge and is given a position far beyond their worth. These whose place was in the gate of the king were not the common people of the city but officials who would do the will and command of the king. We know that among those sitting in the gate was Mordecai, the man who refused to perform as commanded. Mordecaiís refusal gives us an insight to the courage that he possessed. He would not render to man that which he reserved for worship unto the true God. Est. 3:2.
Mordecai was a man of strong convictions and was willing to face whatever circumstances came his way because of his stand. His actions were very apparent and caused his companions to question his disobedience to the kings command. Most certainly Mordecaiís purpose was not civil disobedience nor disrespect for the king, but rather, a matter of obedience to the higher power, the Lord. He would not bow down to an idol nor to a man. He adhered to his religious principals. This was not a one day affair but daily, for an unknown period of time, he maintained his integrity. In the course of these days Mordecai revealed his Jewish background which added fuel to the fire. It is difficult not to read into the actions of his compatriots a spirit of dislike, perhaps envy and most certainly jealousy because of his connection to the queen. They waited (vultures) to see what sort of punishment would be given Mordecai. Mordecai was not a minor voice in the decisions which were made daily in the kings gate. In the political atmosphere in which he found himself it was not always easy to maintain his high standards in light of the opposition which he faced. His decisions would be made on the basis of the Law, which could be contrary to the laws of the Medes and the Persians.