Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:Zachariah, also spelled Zechariah, is a significant figure in the Bible, known for his role as a prophet during the post-exilic period of Israel's history. His prophetic ministry is documented in the Book of Zechariah, which is part of the Minor Prophets in the Old Testament. Zachariah's messages are characterized by visions, symbolic actions, and prophecies concerning the restoration of Jerusalem, the coming of the Messiah, and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. Historical Context: Zachariah prophesied during the reign of Darius the Great, around 520-518 BC, a time when the Jewish exiles had returned from Babylonian captivity and were in the process of rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. His contemporary, Haggai, also encouraged the people in this rebuilding effort. The historical backdrop of Zachariah's ministry is crucial, as it was a period of renewal and hope for the Jewish community, yet also one of significant challenges and opposition. The Book of Zechariah: The Book of Zechariah is divided into two main sections. The first section (chapters 1-8) contains a series of eight night visions, symbolic actions, and oracles that focus on the immediate concerns of the Jewish community, such as the rebuilding of the temple and the purification of the priesthood. The second section (chapters 9-14) shifts to more apocalyptic themes, with prophecies concerning the coming of the Messiah, the future of Israel, and the ultimate victory of God's kingdom. Key Themes and Messages: 1. Restoration and Encouragement: Zachariah's prophecies are filled with messages of hope and encouragement for the Jewish people. He assures them of God's presence and support in their efforts to rebuild the temple and restore their community. In Zechariah 1:16-17 , the Lord declares, "I have returned to Jerusalem with mercy; My house will be built in it, declares the LORD of Hosts, and a measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem." 2. Visions and Symbolism: The night visions in the early chapters of Zechariah are rich with symbolism. These visions include the horsemen among the myrtle trees, the four horns and four craftsmen, and the vision of Joshua the high priest. Each vision conveys a message of divine intervention, judgment, and restoration. For example, in Zechariah 3:4 , the angel of the Lord says to Joshua, "See, I have removed your iniquity, and I will clothe you with splendid robes." 3. Messianic Prophecies: Zachariah contains several prophecies that Christians interpret as pointing to the coming of Jesus Christ. One of the most notable is Zechariah 9:9 , which foretells the triumphal entry of the Messiah: "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." 4. The Day of the Lord: The latter chapters of Zechariah focus on eschatological themes, including the Day of the Lord, a time of divine judgment and salvation. Zechariah 14:9 proclaims, "On that day the LORD will become King over all the earth—the LORD alone, and His name alone." Legacy and Influence: Zachariah's prophecies have had a lasting impact on both Jewish and Christian eschatology. His visions and messages of hope continue to inspire believers, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises. The book's messianic prophecies are particularly significant in Christian theology, as they are seen as foretelling the life and mission of Jesus Christ. Conclusion: Zachariah's role as a prophet during a pivotal time in Israel's history underscores the importance of faithfulness and hope in the face of adversity. His messages of restoration, divine intervention, and future glory remain relevant to believers seeking to understand God's plan for His people and the world. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary ZachariahSmith's Bible Dictionary Zachariah(remembered by Jehovah), or properly Zechariah.
ATS Bible Dictionary ZachariahKing of Israel succeeded his father Jeroboam 2, 773 B. C., and reigned six months. He did evil in the sight of the Lord, and Shallum son of Jabesh conspired against him, killed him in public, and reigned in his stead. Thus was fulfilled what the Lord had foretold to Jehu, that his children should sit on the throne of Israel to the fourth generation, 2 Kings 14:29; 15:8-11. Easton's Bible Dictionary Remembered by the Lord. (1.) Son of Jeroboam II., king of Israel. On the death of his father there was an interregnum of ten years, at the end of which he succeeded to the throne, which he occupied only six months, having been put to death by Shallum, who usurped the throne. "He did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord, as his fathers had done" (2 Kings 14:29; 15:8-12). In him the dynasty of Jehu came to an end. (2.) The father of Abi, who was the mother of Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:2). International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZACHARIAHzak-a-ri'-a (Zacharias; the King James Version, Zacharias): Strong's Hebrew 2148. Zkaryah -- the name of a number of Isr.... Zkaryah. 2148a . the name of a number of Isr. Transliteration: Zkaryah Phonetic Spelling: (zek-ar-yaw') Short Definition: Zachariah. Zachariah, Zechariah ... /hebrew/2148.htm - 5k Library How Zachariah Shallum, Menahem Pekahiah and Pekah Took the ... Concerning Jeroboam King of Israel and Jonah the Prophet; and How ... Li. Dining with a Pharisee, Jesus Denounces that Sect. The Content of Prayer: Its Four Moods The Entry into Jerusalem. The Antiquities of the Jews Chapter i. Introductory Letter. Letter G Machinations of the Enemies of Jesus. Thesaurus Zachariah (6 Occurrences)... 2). Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ZACHARIAH. zak ... see). (2) See ZECHARIAH. Multi-Version Concordance Zachariah (6 Occurrences). Matthew ... /z/zachariah.htm - 9k Zechariah (55 Occurrences) Zacharias (11 Occurrences) Killed (352 Occurrences) Barachiah (3 Occurrences) Abel (22 Occurrences) Kingdom (409 Occurrences) Blood (435 Occurrences) Yes (511 Occurrences) Resources What are the meanings of the various visions in the book of Zechariah? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of Zechariah - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org What is the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Zachariah (6 Occurrences)Matthew 23:35 Luke 11:51 2 Kings 14:29 2 Kings 15:8 2 Kings 15:11 2 Kings 18:2 Subtopics Zachariah: Grandfather of Hezekiah Zachariah: Son of Jeroboam, and the Last of the Household of Jehu Related Terms |