In the fourth year of King Darius
This phrase situates the prophecy within a specific historical context. King Darius I of Persia reigned from 522 to 486 BC, and the fourth year of his reign would be around 518 BC. This period is significant as it follows the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon, which began in 538 BC under the decree of Cyrus. The rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem was underway, and the Jewish community was re-establishing itself in the land. Darius was known for his administrative skills and efforts to consolidate the Persian Empire, which provided a relatively stable environment for the Jews to rebuild their society and religious practices.

the word of the LORD came to Zechariah
This indicates divine revelation, a common occurrence in the prophetic books of the Old Testament. Zechariah, a prophet and priest, was a contemporary of Haggai and played a crucial role in encouraging the Jewish people during the post-exilic period. The phrase underscores the authority and divine origin of the message, emphasizing that it is not merely human wisdom but a communication from God. Prophets like Zechariah were instrumental in guiding the people back to covenant faithfulness and in providing hope for future restoration.

on the fourth day of the ninth month
The specificity of the date highlights the importance of the message and its historical accuracy. The fourth day of the ninth month corresponds to a time in the Jewish calendar that would be late November or early December. This precision in dating is typical of prophetic literature, which often records the exact timing of divine revelations to underscore their authenticity and urgency.

the month of Chislev
Chislev is the ninth month in the Hebrew calendar, which corresponds to November-December in the Gregorian calendar. This month is significant in Jewish history, as it is the time when the festival of Hanukkah is celebrated, commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple. Although Hanukkah was established later, the mention of Chislev in Zechariah's time reflects the ongoing process of religious and cultural restoration among the Jewish people. The timing of this prophecy during Chislev may also suggest themes of renewal and dedication, aligning with the broader message of Zechariah's ministry.

Now the people of Bethel
Bethel, meaning "House of God," was a significant location in Israel's history. It was one of the places where Abraham and Jacob worshiped God (Genesis 12:8, 28:19). By the time of Zechariah, Bethel had become a center of idolatry during the divided kingdom period (1 Kings 12:29-33). The mention of Bethel here indicates a return to seeking the true God, reflecting a shift from idolatry back to worshiping Yahweh.

had sent Sharezer and Regem-melech
Sharezer and Regem-melech are likely officials or representatives of Bethel. Their names suggest a Babylonian influence, as "Sharezer" is of Assyrian origin, meaning "protect the king," and "Regem-melech" means "friend of the king." This reflects the historical context of the Jewish return from Babylonian exile, where many Jews had adopted Babylonian names and customs.

along with their men
The inclusion of "their men" indicates that this was a formal delegation, suggesting the importance of their mission. It underscores the communal aspect of their inquiry, representing the concerns of the people of Bethel as a whole. This collective approach highlights the seriousness with which they approached the matter at hand.

to plead before the LORD
"Plead before the LORD" implies seeking divine guidance or favor. This phrase indicates a return to the covenant relationship with God, where the people sought His will and direction. It reflects the post-exilic community's desire to align with God's purposes, reminiscent of other biblical instances where leaders sought God's counsel (e.g., 1 Samuel 23:2, 2 Samuel 5:19). This act of seeking God's guidance is a precursor to the message of repentance and justice that Zechariah would later emphasize.

by asking the priests of the house of the LORD of Hosts
The priests served as mediators between God and the people, responsible for teaching the Law and performing sacrifices. The "house of the LORD of Hosts" refers to the temple, emphasizing God's sovereignty and power. This phrase indicates a formal inquiry, showing respect for religious authority. The title "LORD of Hosts" underscores God's command over heavenly armies, a reminder of His ultimate authority and protection over Israel.

as well as the prophets
Prophets were God's messengers, providing guidance and correction. Their inclusion highlights the importance of seeking divine insight beyond ritualistic practices. Prophets like Haggai and Zechariah were active during this period, encouraging the rebuilding of the temple and spiritual renewal. This dual consultation with priests and prophets reflects a comprehensive approach to understanding God's will.

“Should I weep and fast in the fifth month,
The fifth month refers to the month of Av, during which the Jews commemorated the destruction of Solomon's Temple by the Babylonians in 586 BC. Fasting and weeping were expressions of mourning and repentance. This practice had become a tradition during the Babylonian exile, reflecting a deep sense of loss and longing for restoration. The question implies a desire to understand whether these rituals remain necessary now that the temple is being rebuilt.

as I have done these many years?”
The phrase "these many years" indicates a long-standing tradition, suggesting a period of seventy years since the temple's destruction. This reflects the persistence of mourning practices even after returning from exile. The inquiry suggests a shift in focus from ritual to understanding God's current expectations. It raises questions about the relevance of past practices in light of new circumstances, pointing to a broader theme of spiritual renewal and transformation.

Then the word of the LORD of Hosts came to me, saying,
*The word of the LORD of Hosts*
This phrase emphasizes the divine authority and power behind the message. "LORD of Hosts" is a title that underscores God's sovereignty over the armies of heaven and earth. It reflects His supreme command and ability to execute His will. This title is frequently used in the prophetic books to remind the people of God's ultimate control and power, especially in times of distress or judgment (e.g., Isaiah 1:24, Jeremiah 11:20).

*came to me*
The phrase indicates a direct communication from God to the prophet Zechariah. This personal revelation is a hallmark of prophetic literature, where God chooses specific individuals to convey His messages to the people. Zechariah, a post-exilic prophet, was tasked with encouraging the returned exiles to rebuild the temple and renew their covenant with God. The personal nature of this communication underscores the intimate relationship between God and His prophets.

*saying*
This introduces the content of the divine message that follows. In the context of Zechariah 7, the message addresses the people's inquiry about continuing their traditional fasts. The use of "saying" indicates that what follows is not merely a suggestion but a directive from God. It sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the people's motives and the true nature of worship, which is a recurring theme in the prophetic books (e.g., Isaiah 58:3-7, Micah 6:6-8). Ask all the people of the land and the priests
This phrase indicates a directive from God to Zechariah to address both the common people and the religious leaders. The inclusion of both groups emphasizes the universal nature of the message and the accountability of all societal levels. In the post-exilic period, the priests held significant influence in guiding the spiritual and communal life of the people. This call to inquiry suggests a need for introspection and communal reflection, highlighting the importance of sincerity in religious practices.

When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months
The fifth and seventh months refer to specific times of fasting and mourning observed by the Israelites. The fast in the fifth month commemorated the destruction of the First Temple by the Babylonians in 586 BC, while the fast in the seventh month likely related to the assassination of Gedaliah, the governor appointed by the Babylonians, which led to further calamity for the Jewish remnant. These fasts were part of a broader tradition of lamentation and reflection on national tragedies. The historical context underscores the deep sense of loss and the desire for restoration that characterized the post-exilic community.

for these seventy years
The seventy years mentioned here refer to the period of Babylonian exile, a time of punishment and purification for the people of Israel due to their disobedience and idolatry. This timeframe aligns with the prophecy given by Jeremiah (Jeremiah 25:11-12), which foretold the duration of the exile. The completion of these seventy years marked a significant turning point, as the people returned to their land and began rebuilding the Temple, symbolizing a new era of hope and renewal.

was it really for Me that you fasted?
This rhetorical question challenges the sincerity and motivation behind the people's religious observances. It calls into question whether their fasting was genuinely directed towards God or merely a ritualistic practice devoid of true devotion. This echoes the prophetic theme found in Isaiah 58:3-7, where God critiques superficial religious acts that lack justice and compassion. The inquiry serves as a reminder that true worship involves heartfelt obedience and a genuine relationship with God, rather than mere external observance.

And when you were eating and drinking
This phrase refers to the practice of fasting and feasting among the Israelites. Historically, fasting was a significant religious observance, often associated with mourning or seeking God's favor. However, the context here suggests that the people were engaging in these activities without genuine spiritual intent. The reference to eating and drinking highlights the contrast between outward religious rituals and the inward spiritual reality. In biblical times, feasting was a communal activity, often associated with celebrations and religious festivals, such as Passover or the Feast of Tabernacles. The prophet Zechariah challenges the people to consider the true purpose of their actions, echoing the sentiments found in Isaiah 58:3-7, where God criticizes empty rituals.

were you not doing so simply for yourselves?
This phrase questions the motivation behind the people's actions, suggesting that their fasting and feasting were self-centered rather than God-centered. The critique is that their religious practices had become mere formalities, lacking genuine devotion or concern for God's will. This self-serving attitude is reminiscent of the rebukes found in other prophetic books, such as Amos 5:21-24, where God expresses disdain for insincere worship. The emphasis on self-interest contrasts with the biblical call to love God and neighbor, as seen in the Great Commandment (Matthew 22:37-39). The challenge is to examine one's heart and ensure that religious observance is not merely a ritual but a true expression of faith and obedience to God.

Are these not the words that the LORD proclaimed through the earlier prophets
This phrase emphasizes the continuity of God's message throughout history. The "earlier prophets" likely refer to figures such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Amos, who consistently called Israel to repentance and warned of judgment. This continuity underscores the unchanging nature of God's expectations and the importance of heeding prophetic warnings. The prophets often spoke against social injustice, idolatry, and empty religious rituals, urging a return to genuine worship and obedience.

when Jerusalem and its surrounding towns were populous and prosperous
This part of the verse recalls a time of economic and social flourishing in Jerusalem and its neighboring areas. Historically, this could refer to the period before the Babylonian exile, when the kingdom of Judah was thriving. The prosperity mentioned here serves as a backdrop to highlight the people's complacency and neglect of God's commands during times of abundance. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, as prosperity without righteousness leads to downfall.

and the Negev and the foothills were inhabited
The Negev is a desert region in the southern part of Israel, while the foothills refer to the Shephelah, a region of low hills between the coastal plain and the central highlands. These areas being "inhabited" suggests a time of security and stability, as these regions were often vulnerable to external threats. The mention of these areas indicates the extent of the land's prosperity and the comprehensive nature of the population's well-being. It also serves as a geographical reminder of the full scope of God's blessings when the people were obedient, contrasting with the desolation that followed their disobedience.

Then the word of the LORD came to Zechariah, saying,
This phrase indicates a divine revelation, a common occurrence in the prophetic books of the Old Testament. The phrase "the word of the LORD" signifies a direct communication from God, emphasizing the authority and importance of the message. Zechariah, a post-exilic prophet, received this word during a time when the Jewish people were returning from Babylonian exile and rebuilding Jerusalem and the temple. This context is crucial as it reflects a period of spiritual renewal and reformation. The phrase underscores the role of prophets as God's messengers, a theme consistent throughout the Bible, as seen in the ministries of Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel. The divine communication often served to guide, correct, or encourage the people of Israel. In the broader biblical narrative, this phrase connects to the concept of God's ongoing revelation to humanity, culminating in the ultimate revelation through Jesus Christ, as noted in Hebrews 1:1-2. This is what the LORD of Hosts says:
The title "LORD of Hosts" emphasizes God's sovereignty and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It is a reminder of His authority and the divine source of the message. This phrase is often used in prophetic literature to assert the seriousness and divine origin of the message being delivered. It connects to other scriptures where God is depicted as a warrior and protector, such as in Isaiah 1:24 and Psalm 46:7.

Administer true justice.
The call to "administer true justice" reflects God's concern for righteousness and fairness in society. In the historical context, the Israelites had returned from exile and were rebuilding their community. Justice was a critical issue, as the people were called to reflect God's character in their dealings. This command echoes the teachings of the Law, such as in Deuteronomy 16:20, and the prophetic calls for justice found in Micah 6:8. It also foreshadows the justice that Jesus Christ embodies and teaches in the New Testament, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount.

Show loving devotion and compassion to one another.
"Loving devotion" and "compassion" are central to the covenant relationship between God and His people. These terms are often associated with the Hebrew word "hesed," which denotes steadfast love and mercy. The call to show these qualities to one another highlights the social and relational aspects of the covenant community. This mirrors the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized love and compassion as the greatest commandments (Matthew 22:37-40). The cultural context of the time, with its emphasis on community and family, underscores the importance of these virtues in maintaining social harmony and reflecting God's character.

Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless
In ancient Israel, widows and orphans were among the most vulnerable members of society, lacking the protection and provision typically provided by a male head of household. The Mosaic Law repeatedly emphasizes the need to care for these groups (Exodus 22:22-24, Deuteronomy 10:18). This command reflects God's character as a defender of the helpless (Psalm 68:5). The prophets often rebuked Israel for failing to uphold justice for these individuals, highlighting societal corruption and neglect (Isaiah 1:17, Jeremiah 7:6). This call to justice is a recurring theme, underscoring the importance of compassion and righteousness in community life.

the foreigner or the poor
Foreigners, or sojourners, were non-Israelites residing in the land. The Law instructed Israel to treat them with kindness and fairness, remembering their own history as foreigners in Egypt (Leviticus 19:33-34). The poor, often marginalized, were to be supported through provisions like gleaning laws (Leviticus 19:9-10) and the year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25). This reflects a broader biblical principle of social justice and care for the marginalized, which Jesus also emphasized in His ministry (Matthew 25:35-40). The inclusion of foreigners and the poor in this command highlights God's inclusive love and justice.

And do not plot evil in your hearts against one another.
This phrase addresses the internal attitudes that lead to external actions. The heart, in biblical terms, is the center of thought, intention, and emotion (Proverbs 4:23). Plotting evil indicates premeditated harm, which is condemned throughout Scripture (Proverbs 6:16-19). Jesus expanded on this concept, teaching that evil thoughts and intentions defile a person (Matthew 15:19-20). The call to purity of heart aligns with the New Testament's emphasis on love and unity within the body of Christ (1 John 3:15). This command encourages believers to cultivate hearts of integrity and peace, reflecting God's nature.

But they refused to pay attention
This phrase highlights the deliberate disobedience of the people. In the context of Zechariah, the Israelites had returned from exile and were being called to genuine repentance and obedience. Historically, this refusal to heed God's word was a recurring issue for Israel, as seen in passages like Jeremiah 7:24, where the people did not listen or incline their ear. This refusal is a heart issue, indicating a willful rejection of God's commands and a preference for their own ways.

and turned a stubborn shoulder;
The imagery of a "stubborn shoulder" suggests resistance and rebellion. In ancient Near Eastern culture, turning the shoulder was a metaphor for rejecting authority or instruction. This phrase can be connected to Deuteronomy 9:6, where Israel is described as a "stiff-necked people," indicating their persistent rebellion against God. The stubbornness here is not just physical but spiritual, showing a hardened heart against divine guidance.

they stopped up their ears from hearing.
This phrase indicates a conscious decision to ignore God's message. The act of stopping up ears is symbolic of a refusal to listen, akin to the behavior described in Isaiah 6:10, where the people's hearts are calloused, and their ears are dull. This deliberate deafness to God's word is a serious spiritual condition, as faith comes from hearing the message of Christ (Romans 10:17). The refusal to hear is a rejection of the opportunity for repentance and restoration, which God continually offers.

They made their hearts like flint
This phrase indicates a deliberate hardening of the heart, symbolizing resistance and stubbornness. Flint is a hard stone, suggesting an unyielding and impenetrable attitude. In biblical context, a hardened heart often signifies rebellion against God (Exodus 7:13). This imagery is used to describe the Israelites' refusal to heed God's commands, reflecting a spiritual insensitivity and unwillingness to repent.

and would not listen to the law
The law refers to the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, which contain God's commandments and instructions for His people. The Israelites' refusal to listen indicates a rejection of God's covenant and guidance. This disobedience is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where the people often turn away from God's statutes, leading to consequences (Deuteronomy 28).

or to the words that the LORD of Hosts had sent by His Spirit through the earlier prophets
The "LORD of Hosts" emphasizes God's sovereignty and power. The prophets were God's messengers, inspired by the Holy Spirit to deliver His words. This phrase highlights the divine origin of the prophetic messages and the people's disregard for them. Prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel warned Israel of the consequences of their disobedience, yet they were often ignored or persecuted (Jeremiah 25:4).

Therefore great anger came from the LORD of Hosts
God's anger is a response to persistent disobedience and rejection of His word. This anger is not arbitrary but a just reaction to the covenant violations by His people. The consequences of this anger were often manifested in the form of judgment, such as exile or destruction (2 Kings 17:18). This serves as a warning and a call to repentance, emphasizing God's holiness and justice.

And just as I had called
This phrase indicates God's initiative in reaching out to His people. Throughout the Old Testament, God consistently called Israel to repentance and obedience through prophets (e.g., Isaiah, Jeremiah). This calling reflects God's desire for a relationship with His people and His patience in giving them opportunities to return to Him.

and they would not listen,
The Israelites' refusal to listen is a recurring theme in their history. This disobedience led to consequences such as exile and suffering. The hardness of heart is often compared to the stubbornness seen in Pharaoh during the Exodus (Exodus 7-11). This refusal to heed God's call is a warning against spiritual deafness and rebellion.

so when they called
This part of the verse highlights a reversal of roles. The people, in times of distress, would call upon God for deliverance. This reflects a common pattern where people turn to God in desperation after ignoring Him in times of prosperity. It underscores the importance of consistent faithfulness rather than seeking God only in crisis.

I would not listen,
God's refusal to listen is a form of divine judgment. It serves as a consequence of persistent disobedience and a broken covenant relationship. This echoes Proverbs 1:28, where wisdom warns that those who ignore her will not be heard in their time of need. It emphasizes the seriousness of rejecting God's call.

says the LORD of Hosts.
The title "LORD of Hosts" underscores God's sovereignty and power. It is a reminder of His authority over all creation, including heavenly armies. This title assures that the message is not just from a local deity but from the supreme ruler of the universe. It reinforces the gravity of the warning and the certainty of its fulfillment.

But I scattered them with a whirlwind among all the nations that they had not known
This phrase reflects God's judgment upon Israel for their disobedience and rejection of His commands. The imagery of a "whirlwind" suggests sudden and overwhelming force, indicating the severity of the exile. Historically, this refers to the Babylonian exile, where the Israelites were taken to lands they were unfamiliar with, fulfilling prophecies such as those found in Deuteronomy 28:64. The scattering among nations also prefigures the broader dispersion of the Jewish people throughout history, known as the Diaspora.

and the land was left desolate behind them
The desolation of the land signifies the physical and spiritual consequences of Israel's sin. The once fertile and prosperous land of Canaan, described as "flowing with milk and honey" (Exodus 3:8), became barren and uninhabited. This desolation serves as a tangible reminder of the covenantal curses outlined in Leviticus 26:32-35, where God warns of the land enjoying its Sabbaths while lying desolate due to Israel's disobedience.

so that no one could come or go
This phrase highlights the complete isolation and abandonment of the land. The absence of movement indicates a breakdown of society and commerce, reflecting the totality of the judgment. It also underscores the fulfillment of prophetic warnings, such as those in Jeremiah 25:11, where the land would become a ruin and a waste, devoid of its people.

Thus they turned the pleasant land into a desolation.
The "pleasant land" refers to the Promised Land, a gift from God to the descendants of Abraham. The transformation into a "desolation" is a direct result of the people's actions, emphasizing human responsibility in the face of divine judgment. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, as seen in the warnings of the prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah. The desolation also foreshadows the need for restoration and redemption, themes central to the coming of Jesus Christ, who offers spiritual renewal and the hope of a restored creation.