Zechariah 1:7

On the twenty-fourth day of the eleventh month, the month of Shebat, in the second year of Darius, the word of the LORD came to the prophet Zechariah son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo.

Study Bible

On the twenty-fourth day of the eleventh month, the month of Shebat
This date corresponds to February in the Gregorian calendar. The specific mention of the date highlights the importance of the prophetic message and its historical context. The Jewish calendar is lunar-based, and Shebat is the eleventh month. This precision in dating reflects the meticulous nature of biblical record-keeping and underscores the historical reliability of the text.

in the second year of Darius
Darius I, also known as Darius the Great, was a Persian king who reigned from 522 to 486 BC. His second year would be around 520 BC. This period is significant as it marks the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the beginning of the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. The mention of Darius situates the prophecy within a specific historical framework, emphasizing the political backdrop of Persian rule over the Jewish people.

the word of the LORD came to the prophet Zechariah
The phrase "the word of the LORD" indicates divine revelation, a common expression in prophetic literature. Zechariah, whose name means "Yahweh remembers," is a post-exilic prophet. His role is to convey God's messages to the people, encouraging them in the rebuilding efforts and spiritual renewal. This divine communication underscores the authority and authenticity of the prophecy.

son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo
Zechariah's lineage is mentioned to establish his credibility and priestly heritage. Berechiah means "Yahweh blesses," and Iddo means "His witness." This genealogy connects Zechariah to the priestly line, as Iddo is also mentioned in Nehemiah 12:4 as a priest who returned with Zerubbabel. This connection reinforces Zechariah's role as a spiritual leader and a legitimate voice of God during this critical period of restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet of the Lord, whose name means "Yahweh remembers." He is the son of Berechiah and grandson of Iddo, and he plays a crucial role in encouraging the Israelites during the rebuilding of the temple.

2. Berechiah
The father of Zechariah, whose name means "Yahweh blesses." He is mentioned to establish Zechariah's lineage and prophetic authority.

3. Iddo
The grandfather of Zechariah, a priestly figure, which emphasizes the prophetic and priestly heritage of Zechariah.

4. Darius
The Persian king during whose reign the events of Zechariah take place. His reign provides a historical context for the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem.

5. Shebat
The eleventh month in the Hebrew calendar, marking the specific time when the word of the Lord came to Zechariah, emphasizing the importance of divine timing.

Teaching Points

Divine Timing
God's messages often come at specific times for specific purposes. We should be attentive to God's timing in our lives and be ready to respond.

Heritage and Calling
Zechariah's lineage underscores the importance of spiritual heritage. We should honor our spiritual roots and recognize how they shape our calling.

Encouragement in Rebuilding
Just as Zechariah encouraged the Israelites to rebuild the temple, we are called to encourage others in their spiritual and communal rebuilding efforts.

Prophetic Authority
Zechariah's authority as a prophet is established through his lineage and divine calling. We should respect and heed the words of those whom God has called to speak into our lives.

Historical Context
Understanding the historical context of biblical events can deepen our comprehension of God's work and His faithfulness throughout history.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Darius's reign enhance our understanding of Zechariah's message?

2. In what ways can we be attentive to God's timing in our own lives, similar to how Zechariah received the word of the Lord on a specific day?

3. How can we honor our spiritual heritage while also embracing our unique calling from God?

4. What are some practical ways we can encourage others in their spiritual rebuilding efforts, as Zechariah did for the Israelites?

5. How does recognizing the authority of those God has called to speak into our lives impact our spiritual growth and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Haggai 1
This chapter provides context for the rebuilding of the temple, which is the backdrop for Zechariah's prophecies. Both prophets encourage the people to complete the temple.

Ezra 5:1-2
These verses mention Zechariah alongside Haggai, highlighting their roles in motivating the leaders and people of Israel to resume work on the temple.

Revelation 1:10-11
The concept of receiving a divine message on a specific day is mirrored in John's vision on the Lord's Day, showing the continuity of prophetic revelation.