In the eighth month of the second year of Darius
This time reference places the prophecy in 520 BC, during the reign of Darius I of Persia. The eighth month corresponds to the Hebrew month of Cheshvan, which falls around October-November. This period is significant as it follows the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon, a time of rebuilding and restoration. Darius's reign is marked by stability and support for the Jewish people, as seen in his decree allowing the reconstruction of the Jerusalem temple (Ezra 6:1-12).

the word of the LORD came
This phrase indicates divine revelation, a common expression in prophetic literature, signifying that the message is not of human origin but from God. It underscores the authority and authenticity of the prophecy. The "word of the LORD" is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament, emphasizing God's communication with His people (Jeremiah 1:4, Ezekiel 1:3).

to the prophet Zechariah
Zechariah is identified as a prophet, a spokesperson for God. His role is to convey God's messages to the people of Israel. Zechariah's prophecies are characterized by visions and symbolic imagery, focusing on themes of repentance, restoration, and the coming Messiah. His ministry overlaps with that of Haggai, another prophet who encouraged the rebuilding of the temple.

son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo
This genealogical detail establishes Zechariah's priestly lineage, as Iddo is mentioned among the priests who returned with Zerubbabel (Nehemiah 12:4, 16). The priestly background of Zechariah may have influenced his emphasis on temple worship and purity. The name "Zechariah" means "Yahweh remembers," which is fitting for a prophet who speaks of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.

saying:
This introduces the content of the divine message that follows. The use of "saying" indicates that what comes next is a direct quotation from God, highlighting the importance and urgency of the message. The subsequent verses call the people to repentance and promise future blessings, setting the tone for the rest of Zechariah's prophecies.

The LORD
This phrase refers to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel, who is central to the narrative of the Old Testament. He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things, and His name signifies His eternal and self-existent nature. The use of "LORD" in all capitals indicates the translation of the Hebrew name YHWH, emphasizing His personal relationship with His people.

was very angry
The Hebrew word used here for "very angry" conveys intense displeasure and wrath. This anger is not arbitrary but is a response to the covenant unfaithfulness of the people. God's anger is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, often resulting from idolatry and disobedience. It is important to note that God's anger is always just and righteous, reflecting His holiness and justice.

with your fathers
This phrase refers to the ancestors of the Israelites, particularly those who lived during the time leading up to the Babylonian exile. The "fathers" had repeatedly turned away from God, despite His warnings through the prophets. This historical context is crucial, as it highlights the pattern of rebellion and the consequences that followed, such as the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile. The mention of "your fathers" serves as a reminder of the past mistakes and a call to repentance for the current generation.

So tell the people that this is what the LORD of Hosts says:
This phrase emphasizes the role of the prophet as a messenger. The title "LORD of Hosts" underscores God's sovereignty and power, often used in contexts where His authority and might are highlighted. The term "Hosts" refers to the heavenly armies, indicating God's command over all spiritual and earthly forces. This introduction sets the stage for a divine message that carries weight and authority, demanding attention and obedience from the people.

‘Return to Me, declares the LORD of Hosts,
The call to "Return to Me" is a central theme in the prophetic literature, reflecting God's desire for a restored relationship with His people. This plea is rooted in the covenant relationship established between God and Israel, where faithfulness and repentance are key. The historical context involves the post-exilic community, who had returned from Babylonian captivity and were in the process of rebuilding their lives and the temple. This call to return is not just physical but spiritual, urging the people to renew their commitment to God. It echoes the call for repentance found in other scriptures, such as Joel 2:12-13 and Malachi 3:7.

and I will return to you,
This promise of reciprocal action highlights the covenantal nature of God's relationship with His people. It assures them that their repentance will be met with God's favor and presence. This concept is seen throughout the Old Testament, where God's blessings are contingent upon the people's obedience and faithfulness. Theologically, it underscores the idea of God's faithfulness and readiness to forgive, as seen in passages like 2 Chronicles 7:14 and James 4:8.

says the LORD of Hosts.’
The repetition of "says the LORD of Hosts" reinforces the authority and certainty of the message. It serves as a divine seal, assuring the people that these are not merely the words of the prophet but the very words of God. This repetition also emphasizes the seriousness of the call to repentance and the promise of God's return, urging the people to respond with sincerity and urgency. The use of this title at the end of the message serves as a reminder of God's ultimate power and the assurance that He can fulfill His promises.

Do not be like your fathers
This phrase serves as a warning and a call to repentance. The "fathers" refer to the ancestors of the Israelites who repeatedly disobeyed God. This is a common theme in the Old Testament, where the Israelites are often reminded of their forefathers' failures to follow God's commands. The call to not emulate their ancestors is a call to break the cycle of disobedience and rebellion against God.

to whom the former prophets proclaimed
The "former prophets" include figures like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and others who warned Israel and Judah of the consequences of their disobedience. These prophets were God's messengers, delivering His words and warnings to the people. Their messages often included calls to repentance and foretold the consequences of continued disobedience, such as exile and destruction.

that this is what the LORD of Hosts says
The title "LORD of Hosts" emphasizes God's sovereignty and power. It portrays God as the commander of heavenly armies, underscoring His authority to issue commands and warnings. This title is used frequently in the prophetic books to remind the people of God's ultimate control over all creation.

‘Turn now from your evil ways and deeds.’
This is a direct call to repentance, urging the people to change their behavior and return to God. "Evil ways and deeds" refer to the sinful actions and lifestyles that are contrary to God's laws. Repentance is a central theme in the Bible, and it involves a complete turning away from sin and a return to God.

But they did not listen or pay attention to Me
This phrase highlights the stubbornness and hard-heartedness of the people. Despite numerous warnings and calls to repentance, the Israelites often ignored God's messages. This disobedience led to severe consequences, including the Babylonian exile. The failure to listen is a recurring issue in the relationship between God and His people.

declares the LORD
This phrase underscores the authority and finality of God's message. When God declares something, it is a definitive statement that carries weight and certainty. It serves as a reminder that the words spoken by the prophets are not their own but are directly from God Himself.

Where are your fathers now?
This phrase serves as a rhetorical question, prompting reflection on the mortality and transience of human life. Historically, the "fathers" refers to the ancestors of the Israelites, many of whom had experienced God's judgment due to their disobedience. This question reminds the audience of the consequences faced by previous generations who did not heed God's warnings. It emphasizes the importance of learning from the past and recognizing the impermanence of human existence. The question also serves as a call to repentance, urging the current generation to turn back to God. This theme is consistent with the messages found in other prophetic books, such as Jeremiah and Isaiah, where the consequences of ignoring God's commands are highlighted.

And the prophets, do they live forever?
This phrase underscores the temporary nature of the prophets themselves, despite their divine calling and messages. While the prophets were God's mouthpieces, they were still mortal and subject to death. This serves to highlight the enduring nature of God's word over the human vessels who deliver it. The prophets' messages, though delivered by mortal men, carry eternal significance and authority. This idea is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus speaks of the enduring nature of His words (Matthew 24:35). The question also serves as a reminder that while the prophets may pass away, the truth of their messages and the fulfillment of God's promises remain. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who, as the ultimate prophet, priest, and king, offers a message of eternal life and salvation that transcends His earthly ministry.

But did not My words and My statutes, which I commanded My servants the prophets, overtake your fathers?
This phrase emphasizes the certainty and fulfillment of God's word. The "words and statutes" refer to the divine laws and prophetic messages given to Israel through the prophets. Historically, the prophets warned Israel of the consequences of disobedience, which were realized in events like the Babylonian exile. The term "overtake" suggests inevitability, highlighting that God's decrees are inescapable. This reflects the principle found in Isaiah 55:11, where God's word is described as accomplishing what He desires. The phrase also underscores the authority of the prophets as God's messengers, a theme consistent throughout the Old Testament.

They repented and said,
This part indicates a turning point for the people, acknowledging their wrongdoing. Repentance is a recurring theme in the Bible, often leading to restoration. The historical context here is post-exilic, where the Israelites, having experienced the consequences of their actions, recognize the need to return to God. This mirrors the call to repentance found in the ministry of John the Baptist and Jesus, emphasizing the importance of a contrite heart.

‘Just as the LORD of Hosts purposed to do to us according to our ways and deeds, so He has done to us.’”
The title "LORD of Hosts" signifies God's supreme authority and power, often used in contexts of divine judgment and deliverance. The acknowledgment that God acted "according to our ways and deeds" reflects the biblical principle of reaping what one sows, as seen in Galatians 6:7. This confession by the people shows an understanding of divine justice and the consequences of their actions. It also points to the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His word, whether in blessing or judgment. This realization is crucial for the restoration process, as it aligns with the biblical narrative of returning to God and receiving His mercy.

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.

I looked out into the night
The night often symbolizes a time of uncertainty or judgment in biblical literature. Zechariah's vision occurs at night, suggesting a period of spiritual darkness for Israel. This aligns with the post-exilic context, as the Israelites were returning from Babylonian captivity and rebuilding their identity and faith.

and saw a man riding on a red horse.
The man on the red horse is often interpreted as an angelic being or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, known as a Christophany. The red horse may symbolize war or judgment, reflecting the tumultuous times Israel faced. This imagery is echoed in Revelation 6:4, where a red horse represents war and bloodshed.

He was standing among the myrtle trees in the hollow,
Myrtle trees are evergreen and symbolize peace and recovery, often associated with the Feast of Tabernacles. The hollow, or low place, may represent humility or the valley of vision, where God reveals His plans. This setting suggests a message of hope and restoration for Israel, as myrtle trees were used in the rebuilding of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 8:15).

and behind him were red, sorrel, and white horses.
The presence of multiple horses indicates a heavenly army or divine patrol, suggesting God's active involvement in world affairs. The colors may represent different aspects of God's judgment and mercy. Red could symbolize war, sorrel (a reddish-brown) may indicate a mixed state of peace and conflict, and white often represents victory and purity. This imagery is reminiscent of the four horsemen in Revelation 6, symbolizing various divine interventions in history.

“What are these, my lord?” I asked.
Zechariah, a prophet during the post-exilic period, is having a vision. This question reflects his desire for understanding and clarity regarding the vision he is witnessing. The term "my lord" indicates respect and recognition of authority, often used in addressing angels or divine messengers. This scene is part of a series of visions given to Zechariah to encourage the Jewish people rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. The question signifies the human need for divine interpretation and guidance, a theme prevalent throughout the prophetic books.

And the angel who was speaking with me replied,
Angels often serve as intermediaries between God and humans in the Bible, delivering messages and providing explanations. This particular angel is a guide for Zechariah, similar to the role of angels in the visions of Daniel and John in Revelation. The presence of the angel underscores the divine origin of the vision and the importance of the message being conveyed. It also highlights the accessibility of divine wisdom through God's appointed messengers.

“I will show you what they are.”
The angel's response promises revelation and understanding, emphasizing God's willingness to reveal His plans to those who seek Him. This assurance of explanation is a common motif in prophetic literature, where God provides insight into His purposes and future events. The phrase suggests a progressive revelation, where understanding unfolds as God deems appropriate. It also points to the role of prophecy in unveiling divine mysteries, a theme that resonates throughout the Bible, from the Old Testament prophets to the New Testament revelations.

Then the man standing among the myrtle trees explained
The "man" here is often interpreted as the Angel of the LORD, a figure who appears throughout the Old Testament and is sometimes seen as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. The myrtle trees symbolize peace and restoration, as they are evergreen and fragrant, often associated with the return from exile. This setting in a low valley suggests humility and a place of growth, reflecting the state of Israel at the time.

They are the ones the LORD has sent
The "they" refers to the horsemen seen earlier in the vision, representing divine messengers or agents. This sending by the LORD indicates divine authority and purpose. It reflects God's sovereignty and His active role in the affairs of the world, a theme consistent throughout the prophetic books. The sending also echoes the commissioning of prophets and messengers in other parts of Scripture, such as Isaiah and Jeremiah.

to patrol the earth
The patrol signifies God's omniscience and His watchful care over the nations. This imagery of patrolling suggests a military or protective role, ensuring peace and order. It connects to other biblical passages where God is depicted as a watchful guardian, such as in Job 1:7 and 2 Chronicles 16:9. The concept of divine surveillance assures the faithful of God's control over global events, especially relevant during the post-exilic period when Israel was under foreign rule.

And the riders answered the angel of the LORD
The "riders" refer to the horsemen seen in Zechariah's vision, symbolizing divine messengers or agents. The "angel of the LORD" is a significant figure in the Old Testament, often considered a theophany, or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. This angel acts as an intermediary between God and humanity, highlighting the divine concern for the world. The interaction suggests a heavenly council, where divine messengers report back to a central figure, reminiscent of Job 1:6-7.

who was standing among the myrtle trees
Myrtle trees are evergreen shrubs native to the Mediterranean region, symbolizing peace and prosperity. Their presence in the vision may represent the hope of restoration for Israel. The location among the myrtle trees suggests a setting of renewal and divine favor, contrasting with the desolation of the Babylonian exile. This imagery connects to Isaiah 55:13, where myrtle replaces thorns, symbolizing transformation and blessing.

“We have patrolled the earth
The act of patrolling indicates a comprehensive survey of the earth, suggesting God's omniscience and sovereignty. This patrol reflects the divine oversight and the readiness to intervene in human affairs. It echoes the role of divine watchers in Daniel 4:13, who observe and report on earthly matters, ensuring that God's purposes are fulfilled.

and behold, all the earth is at rest and tranquil.”
The report of rest and tranquility indicates a period of peace, possibly referring to the Pax Persiana under the Persian Empire, which allowed the return of the Jewish exiles. However, this peace is superficial, as it does not reflect the spiritual and moral state of the nations. The tranquility contrasts with the turmoil experienced by Israel, highlighting the tension between divine promises and current realities. This peace foreshadows the ultimate peace brought by the Messiah, as prophesied in Isaiah 9:6-7, where Christ is the Prince of Peace who establishes true and lasting tranquility.

Then the angel of the LORD said
The "angel of the LORD" is often seen as a divine messenger, sometimes interpreted as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, known as a theophany. This figure appears throughout the Old Testament, delivering messages and guidance from God. In Zechariah, the angel serves as an intermediary between God and the prophet, highlighting the divine concern for Israel's plight.

“How long, O LORD of Hosts
The title "LORD of Hosts" emphasizes God's sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies, underscoring His power and authority. The question "How long" reflects a common biblical theme of lament and longing for divine intervention, seen in other scriptures like Psalm 13:1 and Habakkuk 1:2, where the faithful cry out for God's deliverance.

will You withhold mercy from Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the spiritual and political center of Israel, had experienced destruction and exile due to the people's disobedience. The plea for mercy indicates a desire for restoration and forgiveness, aligning with God's covenant promises to His people. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of redemption and the hope for a renewed Jerusalem, as seen in Isaiah 40:1-2.

and the cities of Judah
The cities of Judah, representing the southern kingdom, were also affected by the Babylonian exile. The mention of these cities highlights the widespread impact of God's judgment and the collective need for restoration. This ties into the prophetic promises of rebuilding and renewal found in books like Jeremiah 31:38-40.

with which You have been angry
God's anger is depicted as a response to Israel's persistent sin and idolatry, leading to their exile. This divine anger is not arbitrary but rooted in justice and holiness. However, it is also tempered by His enduring love and commitment to His covenant, as seen in passages like Lamentations 3:31-33.

these seventy years?”
The seventy years refer to the prophesied period of Babylonian captivity, as foretold by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 25:11-12). This timeframe signifies a complete period of judgment and purification, after which God promises restoration. The fulfillment of this prophecy underscores God's faithfulness to His word and His plans for Israel's future, as seen in Daniel 9:2 and Ezra 1:1.

So the LORD spoke
This phrase indicates direct communication from God, emphasizing His active involvement in the affairs of His people. In the context of Zechariah, this communication comes after a period of silence during the Babylonian exile, highlighting the restoration of the prophetic voice. The LORD's speaking is a reminder of His covenant faithfulness, as seen throughout the Old Testament, where God frequently speaks to guide, correct, and comfort His people (e.g., Genesis 12:1, Exodus 3:4).

kind and comforting words
The nature of God's message is one of kindness and comfort, reflecting His compassion and mercy. This is significant given the historical context of the Israelites returning from exile and rebuilding Jerusalem. The words are meant to reassure the people of God's continued presence and support. This echoes other instances in Scripture where God provides comfort, such as Isaiah 40:1-2, where God speaks tenderly to Jerusalem, promising restoration and forgiveness.

to the angel who was speaking with me
The angel serves as an intermediary between God and Zechariah, a common role for angels in biblical narratives. This particular angel is part of a series of visions given to Zechariah, acting as a guide and interpreter. The presence of the angel underscores the heavenly origin of the message and the importance of divine revelation. Angels often appear in Scripture to deliver messages or provide assistance, as seen in Daniel 9:21-23 and Luke 1:26-38.

who was speaking with me
Zechariah's interaction with the angel highlights the personal nature of prophetic revelation. The phrase indicates an ongoing dialogue, suggesting that Zechariah is not merely a passive recipient but an active participant in understanding God's will. This personal engagement is a hallmark of prophetic literature, where prophets often question, seek clarification, or express concerns, as seen in the dialogues of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:6-10) and Habakkuk (Habakkuk 1:2-4).

Then the angel who was speaking with me said,
In the book of Zechariah, angels often serve as messengers and interpreters of God's visions. This particular angel is a divine intermediary, conveying God's message to Zechariah. Angels frequently appear in prophetic literature, such as in Daniel and Revelation, to provide clarity and understanding of God's plans.

Proclaim this word:
The command to "proclaim" indicates the importance and urgency of the message. Prophets in the Old Testament were often tasked with delivering God's word to His people, serving as His mouthpiece. This proclamation is not just for Zechariah but for the entire community of Israel, emphasizing the communal nature of God's communication.

This is what the LORD of Hosts says:
The title "LORD of Hosts" underscores God's sovereignty and power. It is a military term, reflecting God's command over the armies of heaven and earth. This title is used frequently in the prophetic books to remind the people of God's ultimate authority and ability to fulfill His promises.

‘I am very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion,
God's jealousy is not like human jealousy; it is a zealous protection and deep commitment to His people and His chosen city. Jerusalem and Zion are central to God's covenantal promises. Jerusalem is the physical city, while Zion often represents the spiritual and eschatological hope of God's people. This phrase reflects God's enduring love and commitment to restore and protect His people and their land. The jealousy of God is also seen in other scriptures, such as Exodus 34:14, where God desires exclusive devotion from His people.

but I am fiercely angry with the nations that are at ease.
This phrase reflects God's intense displeasure with the nations surrounding Israel. Historically, these nations, such as Babylon and Assyria, had been instruments of God's judgment against Israel due to their disobedience. However, they went beyond what God intended, acting with excessive cruelty and pride. The term "at ease" suggests complacency and self-satisfaction, indicating that these nations were unconcerned with their own moral state or the suffering they inflicted. This echoes the sentiment found in Isaiah 47:6, where God expresses anger at Babylon for showing no mercy. Theologically, this highlights God's justice and His concern for righteousness, as He holds all nations accountable for their actions.

For I was a little angry,
God's initial anger was directed towards Israel due to their persistent idolatry and disobedience, leading to their exile. This "little" anger signifies a measured and purposeful divine response intended for correction and restoration, rather than destruction. It aligns with the concept of divine discipline found in Hebrews 12:6, where God's correction is an expression of His love. The historical context here is the Babylonian exile, a period of seventy years during which God allowed foreign powers to dominate Israel as a means of chastening His people.

but they have added to the calamity.
The nations, particularly Babylon, exacerbated Israel's suffering beyond what God had intended. This phrase indicates that these nations acted with excessive harshness and brutality, adding to the calamity that God had decreed. This is reminiscent of the prophecy in Jeremiah 50:11, where Babylon is condemned for its arrogance and excessive cruelty. Theologically, this underscores the principle that while God may use nations as instruments of His will, they are still responsible for their actions and will be judged accordingly. This also foreshadows the ultimate justice and restoration that God promises to His people, as seen in the broader context of Zechariah's visions, which point to a future hope and the coming of the Messiah.

Therefore this is what the LORD says:
This phrase introduces a divine proclamation, emphasizing the authority and certainty of the message. In the context of Zechariah, a post-exilic prophet, it underscores the transition from judgment to restoration. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) highlights God's covenantal relationship with Israel.

‘I will return to Jerusalem with mercy,
This promise of return signifies God's renewed favor towards Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The term "mercy" indicates compassion and forgiveness, reflecting God's covenant faithfulness despite Israel's previous disobedience. This return is not just physical but spiritual, symbolizing a restoration of God's presence among His people.

and there My house will be rebuilt,
Referring to the rebuilding of the Temple, this phrase highlights the centrality of worship and God's dwelling place among His people. Historically, the Temple's reconstruction began under Zerubbabel and Joshua the high priest, as recorded in Ezra. Theologically, it points to the importance of the Temple as a place of sacrifice and communion with God, foreshadowing Christ as the ultimate Temple (John 2:19-21).

declares the LORD of Hosts,
This title emphasizes God's sovereignty and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It reassures the people of God's ability to fulfill His promises and protect His people. The title is often used in prophetic literature to underscore God's might and authority.

and a measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem.’
The imagery of a measuring line suggests planning and restoration, indicating that Jerusalem will be rebuilt and reestablished according to God's design. This concept is echoed in other prophetic visions, such as Ezekiel's vision of the new Temple (Ezekiel 40) and Revelation's depiction of the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:15-17). It signifies order, purpose, and the fulfillment of God's promises.

Proclaim further that this is what the LORD of Hosts says:
This phrase emphasizes the authority and divine origin of the message. The title "LORD of Hosts" underscores God's sovereignty and command over heavenly armies, indicating His power to fulfill His promises. This is a common title for God in the prophetic books, highlighting His might and the assurance that His words will come to pass.

‘My cities will again overflow with prosperity;
This promise of prosperity refers to the restoration of Judah and Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Historically, the cities had been devastated, but God promises a reversal of fortune. The term "overflow" suggests abundance beyond mere sufficiency, indicating a future of economic and spiritual flourishing. This echoes promises found in other prophetic books like Isaiah 60:5-7, where the wealth of nations is brought to Jerusalem.

the LORD will again comfort Zion
Zion, often synonymous with Jerusalem, represents the spiritual and national heart of Israel. The promise of comfort suggests a return to favor and divine presence. This is reminiscent of Isaiah 40:1, where God speaks comfort to His people, indicating forgiveness and restoration. The comfort is not just physical but also spiritual, pointing to a renewed relationship with God.

and choose Jerusalem.’”
The act of choosing Jerusalem reaffirms God's covenantal love and purpose for the city. Despite past judgments, God's election of Jerusalem remains steadfast. This choice is foundational to the identity of Israel as God's people and is a theme throughout the Old Testament, as seen in passages like 1 Kings 11:13. It also foreshadows the eschatological significance of Jerusalem in the New Testament, particularly in Revelation 21, where the New Jerusalem is depicted as the eternal dwelling place of God with His people.

Then I looked up
This phrase indicates a shift in Zechariah's attention, suggesting a divine revelation or vision. In biblical literature, looking up often signifies receiving insight or understanding from God. This is a common motif in prophetic literature, where the prophet is shown visions that reveal God's plans or messages. It emphasizes the role of the prophet as a seer who perceives divine truths.

and saw four horns.
Horns in biblical symbolism often represent power, strength, and authority, particularly in the context of nations or kingdoms. The number four is significant, often symbolizing completeness or universality, as seen in the four corners of the earth or the four winds. In this context, the four horns likely represent the oppressive powers or nations that have scattered and oppressed Israel. This imagery is consistent with other prophetic books, such as Daniel, where horns symbolize kings or kingdoms (Daniel 7:24). The vision of the horns sets the stage for understanding the forces against God's people and foreshadows the divine intervention that will follow.

So I asked the angel who was speaking with me, “What are these?”
Zechariah, a post-exilic prophet, is engaged in a series of visions. Here, he interacts with an angelic messenger, a common feature in apocalyptic literature, indicating divine revelation. The question reflects Zechariah's role as an intermediary, seeking understanding on behalf of the people. This interaction underscores the importance of divine guidance in interpreting visions, similar to Daniel's experiences (Daniel 7:16).

And he told me, “These are the horns
In biblical symbolism, horns often represent power and strength, typically of nations or kings (Daniel 7:24, Revelation 17:12). The imagery of horns is rooted in the ancient Near Eastern context, where animals with horns, like bulls, symbolized might. The use of horns here suggests formidable forces or kingdoms that exert influence and control.

that have scattered Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem.”
The scattering refers to the historical exiles of the Jewish people, first the northern kingdom of Israel by Assyria in 722 BC, and then the southern kingdom of Judah by Babylon in 586 BC. This scattering fulfilled earlier prophecies of judgment due to the people's disobedience (Deuteronomy 28:64). The mention of Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem highlights the comprehensive impact on the entire covenant community. Theologically, this scattering serves as a backdrop for the promised restoration and return, a theme prevalent in Zechariah and other prophetic books (Jeremiah 30:3, Ezekiel 37:21).

Then the LORD showed me
This phrase indicates divine revelation, a common theme in prophetic literature where God communicates directly with the prophet. The LORD, Yahweh, is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His relationship with Israel. This revelation is part of a series of visions given to Zechariah, a post-exilic prophet, to encourage the Jewish people during the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. The act of God showing something to a prophet underscores the idea that true understanding and insight come from God alone.

four craftsmen.
The term "craftsmen" refers to skilled workers, possibly metalworkers or builders, who are often associated with construction and creation. In the context of Zechariah's vision, these craftsmen are symbolic agents of God's judgment and restoration. The number four is significant, often representing universality or completeness in biblical literature, suggesting that these craftsmen have a comprehensive role in God's plan. This vision follows the one of the four horns, which represented the nations that scattered Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem. The craftsmen are seen as those who will counteract or overthrow these oppressive powers. This imagery can be connected to other biblical passages where God raises up deliverers or agents to fulfill His purposes, such as the judges in the Book of Judges or the anointed leaders like Cyrus in Isaiah 45. The craftsmen can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate restorer and builder of God's kingdom, overcoming the forces of evil and establishing peace.

“What are these coming to do?” I asked.
This question is posed by the prophet Zechariah, who is seeking understanding of the vision he is witnessing. In biblical literature, questions often serve to invite divine revelation or clarification. Zechariah's inquiry reflects a common theme in prophetic literature where the prophet seeks insight into God's plans. This mirrors other instances in scripture where prophets, like Daniel, seek understanding of visions (Daniel 7:16).

And He replied,
The response comes from an angelic figure or the Lord Himself, who provides the interpretation of the vision. This divine communication underscores the role of angels as messengers and interpreters of God's will, as seen throughout the Bible, such as in the book of Daniel and Revelation.

“These are the horns that scattered Judah so that no one could raise his head;
Horns in biblical symbolism often represent power or kingdoms. Here, they symbolize the oppressive nations that have scattered the people of Judah, leading to their humiliation and subjugation. Historically, this refers to the Babylonian exile and the subsequent domination by other empires. The imagery of not being able to "raise his head" conveys a state of defeat and despair, similar to the lamentations over Jerusalem's fall (Lamentations 1:1-3).

but the craftsmen have come to terrify them
The craftsmen, or artisans, symbolize agents of divine retribution and restoration. They are tasked with dismantling the power of the oppressive horns. This imagery suggests a reversal of fortunes, where those who were once oppressed will see their oppressors brought low. The term "craftsmen" may also imply skill and precision in God's plan to restore His people, akin to the rebuilding efforts seen in Nehemiah's time.

and throw down these horns of the nations
This phrase indicates the ultimate defeat and overthrow of the oppressive powers. It reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to bring down the proud and powerful, as seen in the Psalms (Psalm 75:10) and the prophetic declarations against Babylon (Isaiah 13:19).

that have lifted up their horns against the land of Judah to scatter it.”
The nations' aggression against Judah is depicted as an act of pride and defiance against God's chosen people. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative of Israel's enemies being used as instruments of judgment, yet ultimately facing judgment themselves. The scattering of Judah is a direct consequence of their disobedience, yet God's promise of restoration remains, as seen in the prophetic hope of regathering and renewal (Jeremiah 31:10).