Topical Bible: Zacher: Called Zechariah In

◄ Zacher: Called Zechariah In ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Introduction:
Zacher, more commonly known as Zechariah, is a significant figure in the Bible, appearing in various contexts and roles. The name "Zechariah" means "Yahweh remembers," reflecting the theological theme of God's faithfulness and remembrance of His covenant with His people. This entry explores the different individuals named Zechariah in the Bible, focusing on their roles and contributions to biblical history.

1. Zechariah, the Prophet:
Zechariah, the son of Berechiah and grandson of Iddo, is one of the twelve minor prophets in the Old Testament. He was a contemporary of Haggai and played a crucial role in encouraging the Jewish exiles to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem after their return from Babylonian captivity. The Book of Zechariah, attributed to him, contains visions and prophecies that emphasize the coming of the Messiah and the restoration of Israel.

Key Passages:
· Zechariah 1:1 : "In the eighth month of the second year of Darius, the word of the LORD came to the prophet Zechariah son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo, saying:"
· Zechariah 9:9 : "Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your King comes to you, righteous and victorious, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey."

2. Zechariah, the Father of John the Baptist:
In the New Testament, Zechariah is the father of John the Baptist. He was a priest of the division of Abijah and was married to Elizabeth, a descendant of Aaron. Zechariah is known for his encounter with the angel Gabriel, who announced that he and Elizabeth would have a son in their old age. His initial disbelief led to him being rendered mute until the birth of John.

Key Passages:
· Luke 1:5-7 : "In the time of Herod king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah, and his wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron. They were both righteous in the sight of God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and decrees of the Lord."
· Luke 1:13 : "But the angel said to him, 'Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John.'"

3. Zechariah, the Son of Jehoiada:
Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada the priest, is a lesser-known figure who played a significant role during the reign of King Joash of Judah. He was a prophet who boldly confronted the people of Judah for their idolatry and was subsequently stoned to death by order of the king. His martyrdom is a poignant reminder of the cost of standing for truth.

Key Passages:
· 2 Chronicles 24:20-21 : "Then the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest. He stood before the people and said to them, 'This is what God says: Why do you transgress the commandments of the LORD so that you cannot prosper? Because you have forsaken the LORD, He has forsaken you.' But they conspired against him, and by order of the king, they stoned him in the courtyard of the house of the LORD."

4. Other References to Zechariah:
Several other individuals named Zechariah appear throughout the Old Testament, often as priests, Levites, or leaders among the people. These references highlight the commonality of the name and the diverse roles played by those who bore it.

Key Passages:
· 1 Chronicles 15:24 : "Shebaniah, Jehoshaphat, Nethanel, Amasai, Zechariah, Benaiah, and Eliezer—the priests—were to blow the trumpets before the ark of God. Obed-Edom and Jehiah were also to be gatekeepers for the ark."

Conclusion:
The name Zechariah, or Zacher, is associated with various individuals in the Bible, each contributing uniquely to the unfolding narrative of God's interaction with His people. Whether as prophets, priests, or leaders, these figures collectively underscore the theme of divine remembrance and faithfulness.