Biblical Reference: Zechariah 1:7-17

Context and Background:
The Vision of the Horses is the first of a series of eight visions given to the prophet Zechariah, recorded in the book of Zechariah. This vision occurs during the second year of Darius, the Persian king, around 520 B.C. It is a time when the Jewish exiles have returned from Babylon and are in the process of rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. The vision is intended to provide encouragement and assurance of God's continued presence and sovereignty over the affairs of nations.

Description of the Vision:
Zechariah 1:7-8 states, "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. During the night I had a vision, and there before me was a man mounted on a red horse. He was standing among the myrtle trees in a ravine. Behind him were red, brown, and white horses."

In this vision, Zechariah sees a man on a red horse standing among myrtle trees in a ravine, accompanied by other horses of different colors. The myrtle trees, often associated with peace and prosperity, symbolize the restoration and blessing of Israel. The presence of the horses suggests a divine patrol or reconnaissance mission, indicating God's active involvement in the world.

Interpretation and Meaning:
The man on the red horse is identified as the Angel of the LORD, a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, who is often seen as an intercessor and protector of Israel. The other horses represent angelic beings tasked with patrolling the earth. Zechariah 1:10-11 explains, "Then the man standing among the myrtle trees explained, 'They are the ones the LORD has sent to patrol the earth.' And the riders answered the Angel of the LORD who stood among the myrtle trees, 'We have patrolled the earth, and behold, all the earth is at rest and tranquil.'"

The report of the earth being at rest and tranquil is significant. While it may seem positive, it indicates a complacency among the nations, particularly concerning the plight of Israel. The vision reveals God's awareness of the situation and His intention to act on behalf of His people.

Divine Assurance and Promise:
In response to the report, the Angel of the LORD intercedes for Jerusalem and the cities of Judah, expressing concern over the prolonged period of divine displeasure. Zechariah 1:12 records, "Then the Angel of the LORD said, 'O LORD of Hosts, how long will You withhold mercy from Jerusalem and the cities of Judah, which You have afflicted these seventy years?'"

God's response is one of compassion and reassurance. Zechariah 1:14-17 states, "So the angel who was speaking with me said, 'Proclaim this word: This is what the LORD of Hosts says: I am very jealous for Jerusalem and Zion, but I am fiercely angry with the nations that are at ease. For I was a little angry, but they furthered the disaster.' Therefore, this is what the LORD says: 'I have returned to Jerusalem with mercy; My house will be rebuilt there, and a measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem,' declares the LORD of Hosts. 'Proclaim further: This is what the LORD of Hosts says: My cities will again overflow with prosperity; the LORD will again comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem.'"

Theological Significance:
The Vision of the Horses underscores God's sovereignty and His commitment to His covenant people. It reassures the Israelites of divine intervention and the eventual restoration of Jerusalem. The vision also highlights the role of the Angel of the LORD as an intercessor, reflecting the mediatory work of Christ. The promise of rebuilding and prosperity points to both immediate and eschatological fulfillment, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises and His ultimate plan for redemption and restoration.