The answer is: The king and Haman

Esther 7:1

Queen Esther subtly demonstrates her brilliant use of wisdom and strategy in the Book of Esther. By inviting the king and Haman to her banquets, she draws them into a private setting, allowing her to reveal her true purpose: to expose the plot against her people, the Jews. This choice wasn't haphazard; instead, it reflects the intricate relationship between court politics and personal interactions in the ancient Persian Empire.

Did you know? The name "Esther" is derived from the Persian word for "star," which many interpret symbolically, as she indeed rises to prominence and shines light on the truth amidst the darkness of oppression. Interestingly, there exists a parallel in the stories of other Biblical figures using feasts to unveil their intentions, such as Daniel with King Nebuchadnezzar.

Esther’s courage also shines brightly in the context of her cultural landscape where influential figures often leveraged the power of banquets to gain favor and manipulate outcomes. The opulence and pretense surrounding banquets demonstrate the rich tapestry of human behavior woven throughout Biblical history. It’s a snapshot of how dining together was not just about sustenance, but also about bonding, decisions, and sometimes, deceit.

In this moment, blanketed under layers of royal decorum, Esther emerges not only as a queen with a strategy but also as a voice for those marginalized, blending themes of bravery and justice that resonate sincerely across generations. The inclusion of Haman also foreshadows his imminent downfall, illustrating the moral intricacies threading through the narrative where foes can become allies often by circumstance rather than intent.