Zechariah

Zechariah front

Introduction to Zechariah

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of Zechariah

Zechariah calls the returning nation of Israel to repent and return to Yahweh (1:1–6)
The eight night visions (1:7-6:8)
- Yahweh sends his messengers throughout the whole earth (1:7–17)
- Four horns and four craftsmen (1:18–21)
- The measuring line (2:1–13)
- The priest in filthy clothes (3:1–10)
- The golden lampstand olive trees (4:1–14)
- The flying scroll (5:1–4)
- The woman in a basket (5:5–11)
- Four chariots (6:1–8)
A crown for the high priest (6:9–15)
Questions about fasting (7:1–8:23)
Yahweh judges the nations and saves his people (9:1–11:17)
Final message (12:1-14:21)
- Yahweh will finally defeat Israel’s enemies (12:1-9)
- Israel mourns for the one they pierced (12:10-14)
- Yahweh purifies Israel and removes false prophets (13:1-6)
- Yahweh comes as king (14:1–21)

What is the Book of Zechariah about?

Zechariah wrote to the people of Judah who returned from being exiled in Babylon. The people of Judah continued to sin, as their ancestors did before they went into exile. Zechariah called the people to repent and to obey Yahweh. And he called them to renew the covenant with Yahweh. Zechariah also prophesied about the Messiah and about Israel finally being victorious over her enemies. (See: covenant)

How should the title of this book be translated?

This book traditionally has been titled “Zechariah” or “The Book of Zechariah.” Translators may decide to call it the “The Book About Zechariah” or “The Sayings of Zechariah.” (See: How to Translate Names)

Who wrote the Book of Zechariah?

The prophet Zechariah wrote this book between 520 and 518 B.C.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Did Zechariah prophesy before Ezra, Nehemiah, and Haggai?

Zechariah prophesied before the time of Ezra and Nehemiah. He prophesied at the same time as Haggai and continued after Haggai.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What is the meaning of the term “Israel”?

The name “Israel” is used in many different ways in the Bible. Jacob was a son of Isaac. God changed Jacob’s name to Israel. The descendants of Jacob became a nation also called Israel. Eventually, the nation of Israel split into two kingdoms. The northern kingdom was named Israel. The southern kingdom was named Judah. Zechariah uses the term “Israel” to refer to both the nation of Israel and the northern kingdom of Israel.

What imagery does Zechariah use in reference to the Messiah?

Zechariah presented the Messiah as both a king and a shepherd. Zechariah said that the Messiah would come and deliver his people. However, the Messiah would also be pierced (12:10) and struck with the sword (13:7). (See: Christ, Messiah)

What does the phrase “that day” mean?

Zechariah often spoke of the last days by using the phrase “that day” or “in that day.” When referring to a future “day,” the translator should be aware that the author may be speaking about the last days. (See: last day, latter days)

Zechariah 1

Zechariah 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is written in prose mainly with imagery used throughout to portray Zechariah’s vision given by the Lord.

Some translations prefer to set apart quotations. The ULT and many other English translations set lines 1:3-6, 14-17, which are extended quotations, farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text.

Special concepts in this chapter

Visions

This book contains a number of visions given to Zechariah, so the images are not ones Zechariah actually saw but were given to him in a vision or dream. It is important for each of these visions to keep their meanings and not be interpreted to mean any specific thing.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Date

Zechariah uses two separate dates in this first chapter. When compared to the book of Haggai, Zechariah’s prophecy was proclaimed just a few weeks after Haggai. However, they prophesied in two different places: Haggai was in Jerusalem and Zechariah was somewhere outside of Jerusalem. (See: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess)

Zechariah 1:1

This is the eighth month of the Hebrew calendar. It is during the last part of October and the first part of November on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers)

“the second year of the reign of Darius the king” or “the second year since Darius became king” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

This idiom is used to introduce a special message from God. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message” or “Yawheh spoke this message” (See: Idiom)

This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

Zechariah 1:2

Alternate translation: “very angry with your forefathers”

Zechariah 1:3

Yahweh speaks of having a change of attitude toward another person as if it were turning or returning. The people turning to Yahweh means that they will again be devoted to him and worship him, while Yahweh returning to the people means that he will again bless them and help them. (See: Metaphor)

Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh of hosts has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh of hosts, have declared” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Zechariah 1:4

No longer doing certain actions is spoken of as if it were turning away from those actions. The phrases “evil ways” and “wicked practices” mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “Stop doing all of your wicked actions” (See: Metaphor and Doublet)

Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. See how you translated a similar phrase in Zechariah 1:3. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Zechariah 1:5

These two rhetorical questions emphasize that both their ancestors and the prophets who proclaimed Yahweh’s message to their ancestors have died. The questions can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Neither your fathers nor the prophets are here because they have all died.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Zechariah 1:6

This rhetorical question emphasizes the positive answer that it anticipates. Yahweh speaks of the people’s ancestors experiencing the consequences of not obeying Yahweh’s commands as if his words and decrees were a person who had chased after and overtaken them. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “But my words and my decrees that I commanded my servants the prophets have overtaken your fathers.” or “But your fathers have suffered the consequences for disobeying my words and my decrees that I commanded my servants the prophets to tell them.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

These phrases are both ways to refer to Yahweh’s message that the prophets had declared to their ancestors. (See: Doublet)

The words “ways” and “actions” mean basically the same thing. Alternate translation: “our behavior” (See: Doublet)

Zechariah 1:7

“Shebat” is the eleventh month of the Hebrew calendar. The twenty-fourth day is near the middle of February on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and Ordinal Numbers and How to Translate Names)

“in the second year of the reign of Darius the king” or “in the second year since Darius became king.” See how you translated this in Zechariah 1:1. (See: Ordinal Numbers)

This idiom is used to introduce a special message from God. See how you translated this in Zechariah 1:1. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message” or “Yawheh spoke this message” (See: Idiom)

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

Zechariah 1:8

The word “look” here shows that Zechariah was surprised by what he saw.

a kind of small tree with colorful flowers (See: Translate Unknowns)

Zechariah 1:9

Here Zechariah speaks to an unidentified angel. This is not the same as the “man” who was “riding on a red horse.”

“What are these things, sir?” Here the word “Lord” is a form of polite address.

Zechariah 1:10

These phrases refer to the man who “was riding on a red horse” in Zechariah 1:8. This could mean: (1) the man dismounted his horse and stood or (2) the word “stood” is an idiom that means he was located in that position. Alternate translation: “the man who was among the myrtle trees” (See: Idiom)

The word “these” refers to the red, reddish-brown, and white horses that were behind the man who was among the myrtle trees. This could mean: (1) it is implicit that there were other men who were riding the horses, and that these phrases refer to the riders or (2) the horses are personified as being able to speak like people. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Personification)

It is implicit that Yahweh sent these out to walk about in order to patrol the earth. This does not suggest that they were wandering or lost. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 1:11

This phrase refers to the man who “was riding on a red horse” in Zechariah 1:8. This could mean: (1) the man dismounted his horse and stood or (2) the word “stood” is an idiom that means he was located in that position. Alternate translation: “the angel of Yahweh who was among the myrtle trees” (See: Idiom)

The word “they” refers to the red, reddish-brown, and white horses that were behind the man who was among the myrtle trees. This could mean: (1) it is implicit that there were other men who were riding the horses, and that these phrases refer to the riders or (2) the horses are personified as being able to speak like people. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Personification)

There being peace and quiet in the world is spoken of as if the earth were a person who is still and resting. This could mean: (1) this is a good thing that means that there is peace between nations or (2) this is a bad thing that means that there is no war because nations are helpless to fight against a stronger nation that has subdued them. (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 1:12

Here the words “Jerusalem” and “cities” refer to the people who live in those cities. Alternate translation: “to the people of Jerusalem and to the people of the cities of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 1:13

Alternate translation: “with good, comforting words”

Zechariah 1:14

Here the word “jealous” refers to Yahweh’s strong desire to protect his people.

Zechariah 1:15

The phrase “at ease” means that the people thought that they lived in peace and security. Alternate translation: “I am very angry with the nations that enjoy peace and security” (See: Idiom)

Alternate translation: “I was only a little angry with the people of Jerusalem”

“the nations that are at ease made the disaster worse.” This means that although Yahweh used these nations to punish Jerusalem, they did more harm to Jerusalem than what Yahweh had intended for them to do. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 1:16

This could mean: (1) although Yahweh had left Jerusalem when the people had gone into exile, he will now return to Jerusalem when they have come back from exile or (2) Yahweh speaks of having a change of attitude towards the people of Jerusalem and again blessing them and helping them as if he were returning to the city. Alternate translation: “I will once again show mercy towards Jerusalem” (See: Metaphor)

The word “her” refers to Jerusalem, and the word “house” is a metonym for the temple. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The people will build my temple in Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy and Active or Passive)

This refers to builders using their instruments to rebuild the city. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “builders will stretch out their measuring lines over Jerusalem” or “the people will rebuild Jerusalem” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Active or Passive)

Zechariah 1:17

The angel who was speaking to Zechariah says these words.

The phrase “my cities” refers to the cities of Judah and represents the people who live in those cities. Yahweh speaks of the inhabitants of those cities again being prosperous as if goodness were a liquid that overflowed the cities, which are its containers. Alternate translation: “My cities will once again be prosperous” or “The people in the cities of Judah will once again be prosperous” (See: Metonymy and Metaphor)

Here the word “Zion” refers to the people who live in the city. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will again comfort the people in Zion” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 1:18

The word “eyes” represents the person who looks. Alternate translation: “I looked up” (See: Synecdoche)

Zechariah 1:19

Horns were often used as a symbol for military power. Here they symbolize the powerful nations that had conquered the kingdoms of Israel. The words “Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem” represent the people who lived in those places. Alternate translation: “These horns represent the nations that have scattered the people of Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem” (See: Symbolic Language and Metonymy)

Zechariah 1:20

Alternate translation: “blacksmiths” or “metalworkers”

Zechariah 1:21

This refers to the four craftsmen.

The horns symbolize the powerful nations that had conquered the kingdoms of Israel. The word “Judah” represents the people who lived in Judah. See how you translated a similar phrase in Zechariah 1:19. Alternate translation: “These horns represent the nations that scattered the people of Judah” (See: Symbolic Language and Metonymy)

The nations oppressing the people of Judah severely is spoken of as if no person in Judah was able to raise his head. Alternate translation: “and caused them to suffer greatly” (See: Metaphor)

Yahweh speaks of the nations using their military power to conquer Judah as if the nations had lifted up their horns. He speaks of these four craftsmen destroying the military power of these nations as if the craftsmen threw those horns to the ground. Alternate translation: “to destroy the power of the nations who used their military might against the land of Judah” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “to cast down the horns that the nations had lifted up”

Zechariah 2

Zechariah 2 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is introduced in prose with imagery used in the rest of the chapter to portray Zechariah’s third vision about measuring lines given by the Lord.

Some translations prefer to set apart quotations. The ULT and many other English translations set the lines of 2:4-13, which are extended quotations, farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text.

Special concepts in this chapter

Visions

This book contains a number of visions given to Zechariah so the images are not ones Zechariah actually saw but were given to him in a vision or dream. It is important for each of these visions to keep their meanings and not be interpreted to mean any specific thing. Please be careful to translate each of the terms in your language.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

“This is Yahweh’s declaration”

This phrase is used several times in this chapter. The UST often translates this as “Yahweh says.”

Zechariah 2:1

The word “eyes” represents the person who looks. Alternate translation: “I looked up” (See: Synecdoche)

a rope with a certain length that a person would use to measure buildings or large sections of land

Zechariah 2:2

Alternate translation: “So the man with the measuring line said to me”

Zechariah 2:3

This angel is a new participant who has not appeared before this verse. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

Zechariah 2:4

Alternate translation: “The second angel said to the angel who had talked with me”

The phrase “will sit in the open country” translates a word that refers to a city that has no walls. There will be so many inhabitants in the city that it will be too large to have walls around it. Alternate translation: “Jerusalem will not have walls around it … beasts within the city” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 2:5

People built walls around their cities for protection. Here Yahweh speaks of protecting Jerusalem as if he himself were a wall of fire around the city. Alternate translation: “I … will protect the city, like a wall of fire around it” (See: Metaphor)

Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. See how you translated this in Zechariah 1:4. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh, have declared” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

Zechariah 2:6

These two words express urgency and add emphasis to the following command. The words can be translated with an expression that communicates urgency in your language. Alternate translation: “Run! Run!” or “Hurry! Hurry!” (See: Doublet)

Zechariah 2:7

The phrase “daughter of Babylon” refers to the city of Babylon. Yahweh speaks of the city as if it were a daughter. Alternate translation: “you who live in Babylon” (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 2:8

Zechariah begins to speak and tells how Yahweh is sending him to judge the nations who have plundered Jerusalem.

The word “touches” refers to a touch meant to harm. Alternate translation: “for whoever harms you” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 2:9

Raising one’s hand against another person is a gesture of hostility. Here it is a symbolic action that means that God will attack those who harm Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “I myself will fight against them” or “I myself will attack them” (See: Symbolic Action)

The word “plunder” can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: “their slaves will plunder them”

Zechariah 2:10

“Zion” is the same as “Jerusalem.” The prophet speaks of the city as if it is a daughter. This could mean: (1) Zechariah personifies the city as a person who can sing. Alternate translation: “Sing for joy, Zion” or (2) the phrase “daughter of Zion” is a metonym for the people who live in the city. Alternate translation: “Sing for joy, people of Zion” (See: Metaphor and Personification and Metonymy)

Zechariah 2:11

Zechariah speaks of the people of great nations becoming Yahweh’s people and worshiping him as if they were joining themselves to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “the people of great nations will become the people of Yahweh” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “at that time”

Alternate translation: “I will live among you”

Zechariah 2:12

Zechariah speaks of Yahweh claiming Judah as his own land as if Judah were something that Yahweh inherits as a permanent possession. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will claim Judah as his rightful possession” (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 2:13

Here the word “flesh” represents all humanity. Alternate translation: “all people” (See: Synecdoche)

Zechariah speaks of Yahweh beginning to act as if someone had roused Yahweh from inactivity. It is implied that this action refers to his returning to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “he is coming” (See: Metaphor and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Here “his holy place” refers to heaven, and not to the temple in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “from his holy place in heaven” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 3

Zechariah 3 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is introduced in prose and shares the fourth vision, which is the priest in dirty clothes. (See: priest, priesthood)

Some translations prefer to set apart quotations. The ULT and many other English translations set the lines of 3:7-9, which is an extended quotation, farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text.

Difficult concepts in this chapter

Visions

It is important for each of these visions to keep their meanings and not be interpreted to mean any specific thing.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

The high priest

This chapter seems to refer to a particular person, Joshua the high priest. However, little is known about him. (See: high priest, chief priests)

Zechariah 3:1

Yahweh shows Zechariah a vision of Joshua the priest.

Alternate translation: “Satan was standing at Joshua’s right side, ready to accuse Joshua of sin”

Zechariah 3:2

The angel of Yahweh asks this rhetorical question to emphasize the positive answer that it anticipates. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Joshua is a brand pulled from the fire.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

A brand is a burning piece of wood. The angel of Yahweh speaks of Joshua being rescued from captivity in Babylon as if he were a piece of wood that someone pulls from a fire before the wood is completely burned. (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 3:3

In this vision “filthy garments” are symbolic of sinfulness. (See: Symbolic Language)

Zechariah 3:4

The word “him” refers to the angel. The phrase refers to other angels who were present.

Alternate translation: “Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important”

Since Joshua’s garments were symbolic of his sinfulness, by removing his garments, the angel removed Joshua’s iniquity. Causing iniquity to pass from him is an idiom that means that he had removed Joshua’s iniquity. Alternate translation: “I have removed your iniquity from you” (See: Idiom)

Here fine clothing symbolizes righteousness. (See: Symbolic Language)

Zechariah 3:5

Here the word “them” refers to the other angels who were present.

a long piece of cloth wrapped around the head

Zechariah 3:6

Alternate translation: “commanded Joshua in a very serious manner”

Zechariah 3:7

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Yahweh speaks of obeying him as if the person were walking along Yahweh’s paths. Alternate translation: “If you will obey me and keep my commandments” (See: Parallelism and Metaphor)

Here the word “house” is a metonym for the temple, while the word “courts” refers to the courtyards around the temple. Together the phrases mean that Joshua will have authority over the whole temple complex. Alternate translation: “you will have authority over my temple and its courtyards” (See: Metonymy)

The phrase “to go and come among” is an idiom that means that Joshua will be a part of this group and have the same privilege as they do of access to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “to come before me as these who stand here do” (See: Idiom and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 3:8

This phrase refers to other priests who would serve in the temple under the leadership of Joshua. Alternate translation: “the other priests who live with you” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Here the word “sign” refers to something that communicates a special meaning to those who see it. Yahweh speaks of the priests serving in the temple as being this sign that shows that Yahweh will bring his servant.

The word “Branch” refers to a messianic figure that would serve as king over Yahweh’s people. Yahweh speaks of this person as if he were a branch that grows out from a tree. Since the word “Branch” is a title, it should be translated with an equivalent word in your language. (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 3:9

Here the word “stone” likely refers to a precious stone or jewel.

The sides or facets of the stone that reflect light are spoken of as if they are eyes. Alternate translation: “There are seven sides on this single stone” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “carve”

Here the word “land” represents the people who live in the land. Alternate translation: “I will remove the sin of the people from this land in one day” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 3:10

Both the “vine” and the “fig tree” are symbols of prosperity. This phrase describes actions in which people live prosperously and in peace. Alternate translation: “because they will be at peace, each person will invite his neighbor to come and sit under his vine and his fig tree” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 4

Zechariah 4 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is written mainly in prose about the fifth vision, which is about the golden lampstand olive trees.

Special concepts in this chapter

Visions

This chapter shows a conversation between Zechariah and the angel of Yahweh. It is important for each of these visions to keep their meanings and not be interpreted to mean any specific thing.

Zechariah 4:1

Zechariah compares the way in which the angel interrupted his being in deep thought with the way someone would awaken another person from sleep. Alternate translation: “caused me to become more alert like a man awakened from his sleep” (See: Simile)

Zechariah 4:2

the parts of a lamp that are lit on fire

Zechariah 4:3

The ellipsis in this phrase may be supplied from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “the left side of the bowl” (See: Ellipsis)

Zechariah 4:5

The angel asks this rhetorical question to emphasize that Zechariah should have known what these things mean. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Surely you know what these things mean.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Zechariah 4:6

The angel who speaks with Zechariah continues to explain the vision.

Since there is no verb in this phrase, it may be necessary in your language to supply one. Alternate translation: “You will not succeed by might nor by power” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This could mean: (1) that the words “might” and “power” mean basically the same thing and emphasize the greatness of Zerubbabel’s strength or (2) that the word “might” refers to military strength and the word “power” refers to Zerubbabel’s physical ability. Alternate translation: “Certainly not by your own strength” or “Not by military strength nor by your own power” (See: Doublet)

Zechariah 4:7

This is a metaphor in which Yahweh speaks of the obstacles that Zerubbabel will face as if they were a large mountain. He asks this rhetorical question to emphasize that these obstacles pose no threat to Zerubbabel’s success. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are nothing, great mountain! Zerubbabel will cause you to become a plain” or “Although obstacles may appear as large as mountains, Zerubbabel will overcome them as easily as one walks upon level ground” (See: Metaphor and Rhetorical Question)

The top stone is the last stone placed when building something. This refers to the top stone of the temple. Alternate translation: “he will bring out the top stone of the temple” or “he will complete the construction of the temple” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This could mean: (1) the word “grace” refers to God’s grace and the people are requesting that God bless the completed temple. Alternate translation: “while people shout, ‘May God bless it! May God bless it!’” or (2) the word “grace” refers to beauty and the people are declaring how beautiful the completed temple is. Alternate translation: “while people shout, ‘Beautiful! It is beautiful!’” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 4:8

The angel who speaks with Zechariah continues to explain the vision.

This idiom is used to introduce a special message from God. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message to me. He said” or “Yahweh spoke this message to me” (See: Idiom)

Zechariah 4:9

Here the word “hands” represents Zerubbabel. Alternate translation: “Zerubbabel has laid … he will bring it to completion” (See: Synecdoche)

The word “house” represents the temple. Alternate translation: “the foundation of this temple” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 4:10

Zechariah uses this rhetorical question to speak specifically about those who have “despised the day of small things.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Those who have despised the day of small things will rejoice” (See: Rhetorical Question)

“the time of small things.” This phrase refers to the time when the people were building the temple and appeared to be making little progress. Alternate translation: “the time when progress was slow” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This refers to an instrument made with a heavy object attached to the end of a string that builders used to ensure that the walls of buildings were straight.

This phrase refers to the lamps that Zechariah saw in Zechariah 4:2-3.

The seven lamps symbolize the eyes of Yahweh, but they are not literally the eyes of Yahweh. The angel speaks of Yahweh seeing everything that happens on the earth as if his eyes roamed over the whole earth. Alternate translation: “These seven lamps represent the eyes of Yahweh, who sees everything that happens on the earth” (See: Symbolic Language and Metaphor)

Zechariah 4:11

This refers to the olive trees that Zechariah saw in Zechariah 4:2-3.

Zechariah 4:12

Here Zechariah changes his question and asks about branches that are connected to the two olive trees.

These pipes were not mentioned in the previous description of Zechariah’s vision. It is possible that they are connected to the bowl on top of the lampstand and provide the oil with which the lampstand burns.

Here “golden” refers to the color of the oil and does not mean that the oil was made of gold.

Zechariah 4:13

Zechariah 4:14

The branches symbolize these people, but they are not literally the people. Alternate translation: “These two branches represent the sons of fresh olive oil” (See: Symbolic Language)

This idiom means that these men have been anointed with fresh olive oil. A person who is anointed is one whom Yahweh has chosen or appointed for a special duty. Alternate translation: “the anointed men” or “the men whom Yahweh has appointed” (See: Idiom)

The idiom “stand before” means to be in a person’s presence and to serve him. Alternate translation: “who serve the Lord” (See: Idiom)

Zechariah 5

Zechariah 5 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter contains the next two visions. One is about a flying scroll and one is about the basket filled with iniquity. (See: iniquity)

Zechariah 5:1

The word “I” refers to Zechariah.

The word “eyes” represents the person who looks. Alternate translation: “looked up” (See: Synecdoche)

The word “behold” here shows that Zechariah was surprised by what he saw.

Zechariah 5:2

A cubit is 46 centimeters. Alternate translation: “9.2 meters long and 4.6 meters wide” (See: Biblical Distance)

Zechariah 5:3

The word “this” refers to the scroll. The scroll is a metonym for what is written on the scroll. Alternate translation: “On this scroll is the curse” (See: Metonymy)

The phrase “the surface of the whole land” refers to every place within the land. It is implied that the curse will apply to every person who lives in the land. Alternate translation: “that is upon every person within the whole land” (See: Idiom and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Yahweh removing these people from the land is spoken of as if he were cutting them off, like a person would cut a branch from a tree. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will cut off every thief … Yahweh will cut off everyone who swears a false oath” or “Yahweh will remove every thief from the land … Yahweh will remove from the land everyone who swears a false oath” (See: Metaphor and Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “what the scroll says on one side … what the scroll says on the other side”

Zechariah 5:4

Alternate translation: “I will send out the curse”

Yahweh speaks of himself by name to express the certainty of what he is declaring. See how you translated this in Zechariah 1:3. Alternate translation: “this is what Yahweh of hosts has declared” or “this is what I, Yahweh of hosts, have declared” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

The curse destroying the houses of the thief and of the one who swears falsely is spoken of as if the curse would consume the building materials that people had used to build the houses. Alternate translation: “destroy its wood and stones” or “completely destroy it” (See: Metaphor and Synecdoche)

Zechariah 5:5

The word “eyes” represents the person who looks. Alternate translation: “Look up” (See: Synecdoche)

Zechariah 5:6

An “ephah” is a unit of measurement for dry materials and is equal to 22 liters. Here the word is a metonym for the container that would hold an ephah of dry material. Alternate translation: “This is a measuring basket that is coming” or “This is a large container that is coming” (See: Biblical Volume and Metonymy)

The basket symbolizes the people’s iniquity, but it is not literally their iniquity. Alternate translation: “This basket represents the iniquity of the people throughout the whole land” (See: Symbolic Language)

Zechariah 5:7

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: someone lifted a lead covering off the basket” (See: Active or Passive)

Alternate translation: “there was a woman under the lead covering sitting in the basket”

Zechariah 5:8

The woman represents wickedness. Alternate translation: “This woman represents wickedness” (See: Symbolic Language)

“He thrust her … he forced the lead cover.” The word “threw” indicates the force with which the angel did these things. He did not literally throw the woman or the cover.

Zechariah 5:9

Here the word “eyes” represents the person who sees. Alternate translation: “I looked up” (See: Synecdoche)

This idiom means that they were flying. Alternate translation: “they were flying” (See: Idiom)

A stork is a type of large bird that has a wingspan of two to four meters. Zechariah compares the size of the women’s wings with the size of the stork’s wings.

The words “earth” and “heaven” form a merism that refer to the sky. It is implicit that the two women flew away with the basket. Alternate translation: “They lifted the basket up into the sky and flew away” (See: Merism and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 5:11

The ellipsis can be supplied from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “They are taking the basket to the land of Shinar to build a temple for it” (See: Ellipsis)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they will set the basket there” (See: Active or Passive)

The words “prepared base” refer to a pedestal or other kind of fixture upon which they will place the basket.

Zechariah 6

Zechariah 6 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is written mainly in prose and tells the last vision of the four chariots in the first part of the chapter.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 6:12-13.

Special concepts in this chapter

Crown

The second part of the chapter is about a crown made for the high priest. This is an actual person, but the meaning of the word “branch” should be translated as his name. (See: high priest, chief priests)

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Meaning of the visions

The visions are stated and even when the prophet asked for an explanation, their true meaning is often obscure. This uncertainty should remain in your translation. (See: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess)

Zechariah 6:1

Here the word “eyes” represents the person who sees. Alternate translation: “looked up” (See: Synecdoche)

Since the second phrase describes the mountains in the first phrase, the two phrases may be combined. Alternate translation: “between two bronze mountains”

Zechariah 6:2

It is implicit that the horses were pulling the chariots. Alternate translation: “The first chariot had red horses pulling it” or “Red horses were pulling the first chariot” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 6:5

The chariots symbolize the four winds of heaven, but they are not literally the four winds. Alternate translation: “These chariots represent the four winds of heaven” (See: Symbolic Language)

This phrase refers to the four directions from which the wind blows: north, east, south, and west. However, some modern versions interpret this Hebrew expression to mean “four spirits.”

The idiom to “stand before” means to be in a person’s presence and to serve him. See how you translated this in Zechariah 4:14. Alternate translation: “serving the Lord of all the earth” (See: Idiom)

Zechariah 6:6

Some modern versions interpret this Hebrew phrase to mean “the white horses are going out after them,” that is, following the black horses to the north country.

Here the horses represent the chariots that they pull. Alternate translation: “the chariot with the white horses is … the chariot with the spotted gray horses is” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 6:8

Alternate translation: “the angel called out to me”

Alternate translation: “Look at the black horses”

The words “my spirit” refer to Yahweh, so many translations change this to read “Yahweh’s spirit.” This could mean: (1) the word “spirit” represents Yahweh’s emotions and appeasing his spirit means that the chariots will cause Yahweh no longer to be angry with the north country Alternate translation: “they will calm my anger concerning the north country” or (2) the word “spirit” represents Yahweh’s presence and the chariots will cause the Jews who live in the north land to experience Yahweh’s blessings. Alternate translation: “they will cause my spirit to rest in the north country” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 6:9

This idiom is used to introduce a special message from God. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message to me. He said” or “Yahweh spoke this message to me” (See: Idiom)

Zechariah 6:10

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “today”

Zechariah 6:11

This is the name of a man. (See: How to Translate Names)

Alternate translation: “make a crown with the silver and gold”

Zechariah 6:12

Alternate translation: “Speak to Joshua and say”

The phrase “grow up” refers to the growth of a plant, and so continues the metaphor of this person as a “Branch.” This likely refers to this person appearing or coming into power as the one who would supervise the rebuilding of the temple. (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 6:13

This could mean: (1) the “Branch” will be both priest and king or (2) the “Branch” will be king, and another person will be a priest who will share the royal power. Alternate translation: “There will be a priest upon his throne”

The words “the two” refer to the roles of king and priest. The meaning of this phrase depends upon the meaning of the previous phrase. This could mean: (1) the “Branch” will faithfully carry out his duties as both priest and king and not forsake one in order to fulfill the other or (2) the “Branch” who serves as king and the other person who serves as a priest will each carry out their duties faithfully and they will work together in peace.

Zechariah 6:14

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “You will give the crown” (See: Active or Passive)

These are the names of men. See how you translated these in Zechariah 6:10. (See: How to Translate Names)

Some modern versions interpret this phrase as “as a memorial to the generosity of the son of Zephaniah” or “as a memorial to the one who is gracious, the son of Zephaniah.” Also, some modern versions interpret the name “Hen” as meaning the name “Josiah.”

Zechariah 6:15

This refers to the Israelites who remain in Babylon. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The word “you” is plural and refers to the people of Israel. (See: Forms of You)

Here to “listen” means to obey and the word “voice” represents the words that Yahweh speaks. Alternate translation: “truly obey what Yahweh your God says” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 7

Zechariah 7 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter starts about two years after the previous chapter and is written in prose.

Some translations prefer to set apart quotations. The ULT and many other English translations set the lines of 7:4-14, which is an extended quotation, farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text.

Special concepts in this chapter

Fasting

This chapter discusses fasting. People were asking the same questions as those from previous generations. The Israelites were asking these same questions before they were exiled from their land.

Zechariah 7:1

“on day 4” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

“Kislev” is the ninth month of the Hebrew calendar. The fourth day of Kislev is near the end of November on Western calendars. (See: Hebrew Months and How to Translate Names)

This idiom is used to introduce a special message from God. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message to Zechariah” or “Yahweh spoke this message to Zechariah” (See: Idiom)

Zechariah 7:2

These are the names of men. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here the word “beg” means to plead or ask urgently.

Here “face” is a metonym for Yahweh’s presence. Alternate translation: “in the presence of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 7:3

The word “they” refers to Sharezer and Regem Melek.

“Should I mourn in month 5.” The assumed knowledge is that the Jewish people fasted during a part of the fifth month of the Hebrew calendar because this is when the Babylonians destroyed the temple in Jerusalem. The fifth month is during the last part of July and the first part of August on Western calendars. (See: Ordinal Numbers and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Hebrew Months)

Alternate translation: “by fasting”

Zechariah 7:4

This idiom is used to introduce a special message from God. Alternate translation: “Yahweh of hosts gave me a message. He said” or “Yahweh of hosts spoke this message to me” (See: Idiom)

Zechariah 7:5

“in months 5 and 7” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

The word “month” can be supplied in translation. Alternate translation: “in the fifth month” (See: Ellipsis)

The assumed knowledge is that the Jews mourned during a part of the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar because in this month the remaining Jews in Jerusalem fled to Egypt after the murder of Gedaliah, whom the king of Babylon appointed as governor over Judah. The seventh month is during the last part of September and the first part of October on Western calendars. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Hebrew Months)

The assumed knowledge is that the people of Israel had been slaves in Babylon for 70 years. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Numbers)

This question is asked to make the people think about what their real reason for fasting had been. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “you were not really fasting for me.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Zechariah 7:6

This could mean: (1) when they feasted and drank when celebrating religious festivals or (2) when they ate and drank whenever they were not fasting.

This question is used to make the people think about whether they were honoring Yahweh when they ate and drank. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “it was for yourselves that you ate and drank.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Zechariah 7:7

Yahweh uses a question to scold the people. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you can express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “These are the same words … to the west.” (See: Rhetorical Question)

Here “mouth” is a metonym for the words spoken by the mouth. Alternate translation: “by the words of the former prophets” or “through the former prophets” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “you still lived in Jerusalem”

hills at the base of a mountain or mountain range

Zechariah 7:8

This idiom is used to introduce a special message from God. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message to Zechariah. He said” or “Yahweh spoke this message to Zechariah” (See: Idiom)

Zechariah 7:9

The abstract nouns “justice,” “faithfulness,” and “mercy” can be stated as adjectives. Alternate translation: “When you judge, be just, faithful to the covenant, and merciful” (See: Abstract Nouns)

The word “this” refers to how a person should judge.

Zechariah 7:10

a woman whose husband has died

a child whose parents have died

someone who travels from his own land to a different land

Here “heart” represents the thoughts of a person. Alternate translation: “you must not make plans to do evil” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 7:11

This is an image of an ox refusing to allow its owner to put a yoke on its shoulders. This metaphor represents the people being stubborn. Alternate translation: “became stubborn” (See: Metaphor)

This is an image of people putting something into their ears so they would not hear the message from Yahweh. This metaphor represents the people not being willing to hear and obey. Alternate translation: “They refused to listen” (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 7:12

The people refusing to hear and obey Yahweh are compared to their being as unyielding as rock. Here the heart represents the will of a person. Alternate translation: “They stubbornly refused to hear the law or the words of Yahweh of hosts” (See: Simile)

Alternate translation: “in the past”

Here the “mouth of the prophets” is a metonym for the words that the prophets speak. Alternate translation: “through the words of the prophets” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 7:14

Yahweh speaks of how he will scatter the people as if a whirlwind were scattering everything in its path. Alternate translation: “I will scatter them as a whirlwind scatters things” (See: Metaphor)

a strong wind that spins very quickly as it moves and can cause damage

Alternate translation: “pleasant land” or “fruitful land”

Zechariah 8

Zechariah 8 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is a series of sayings from Yahweh of hosts. Each saying is an encouraging note for those returning from the exile to the land of Judah and Jerusalem. (See: Yahweh of hosts, God of hosts, host of heaven, host of the heavens, Lord of hosts)

Zechariah 8:1

This idiom is used to introduce a special message from God. See how you translated this in Zechariah 7:4. Alternate translation: “Yahweh of hosts gave me a message. He said” or “Yahweh of hosts spoke this message to me, saying” (See: Idiom)

Zechariah 8:2

Alternate translation: “I have a strong desire to protect Zion”

Here “Zion” represents the people of Zion. Alternate translation: “for the people of Zion” or “for the people of Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

The implied information is that this anger is against the enemies of Zion. Alternate translation: “with great anger against her enemies” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 8:3

The implied information is that this refers to Mount Zion, the location upon which the city of Jerusalem was built. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 8:4

Alternate translation: “be living in Jerusalem”

People having the opportunity to grow old implies the city will be peaceful and prosperous for a long time. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 8:5

The public areas of the city will be full of people in their normal activities.

Zechariah 8:6

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “If something does not appear to be possible to” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “the people of Judah who survive”

The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “to me” (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 8:7

The implied information is that the people are in exile. “I am about to rescue my people of Judah who went into exile” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This could mean: (1) this is a poetic way of expressing specific countries to which the people were exiled. Alternate translation: “From the land to the east and from the land to the west” or (2) this is a merism that means from all directions. Alternate translation: “from all lands in every direction” (See: Merism)

Zechariah 8:8

This can be rewritten to remove the abstract nouns “truth” and “righteousness.” Alternate translation: “I will be their God. I will be faithful to them and act toward them in a just manner” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Zechariah 8:9

This is an idiom that means to be courageous for the work. Alternate translation: “Be strong and courageous” (See: Idiom)

Zechariah 8:10

Here “those days” refers to the time the people of Judah started to rebuild the temple.

Alternate translation: “there were no crops to harvest”

It was useless for people and their animals to farm the land, because they got no food from it.

This merism refers to all of life’s activities everywhere that anyone went. (See: Merism)

Alternate translation: “I had turned everyone against each other”

Zechariah 8:11

Alternate translation: “But I will not treat the remnant of this people now as I did in former days”

“in the past.” The implied information is that this refers to the time when the people started rebuilding the temple. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The implied information is that this is the remnant of the people who returned from exile. Alternate translation: “the people who returned from exile” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 8:12

This can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “the people will safely sow seed” (See: Active or Passive)

The earth and skies are spoken of as if they were persons giving what is needed. (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “to have all these things”

Zechariah 8:13

The implied information is that the way Yahweh had allowed the temple to be destroyed and his people to be exiled had been used by other nations as an example of what it meant to be cursed by Yahweh. Alternate translation: “When I punished you, the other nations learned what happens when I curse a people” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the people in the kingdoms of Judah and Israel. Alternate translation: “people of Judah and Israel” (See: Metonymy)

This could mean: (1) the implied information is that the people of Judah and Israel would be a blessing to the nations around them. Alternate translation: “you will be a blessing to the surrounding nations” or (2) the implied information is that the nations around them would see what it meant to be blessed by Yahweh. Alternate translation: when I bless you, the other nations will learn what happens when I bless a people” or (3) Yahweh will bless the people of Judah and Israel. Alternate translation: “I will give you many good things” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This is an idiom that means to be courageous for the work. Alternate translation: “be strong and courageous” (See: Idiom)

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the people in the kingdom of Judah. Alternate translation: “people of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 8:14

Alternate translation: “punish you”

Alternate translation: “angered me”

Alternate translation: “did not decide to punish them less”

Zechariah 8:15

This is a metonym for the people of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “the people of Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 8:16

“You” refers to the people of Judah.

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word truth, you could express the same idea with an adjective such as “true.” Alternate translation: “Everyone must say only true things to his neighbor” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Here “neighbor” means any person, not just someone who lives nearby.

This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “truth,” “justice,” and “peace.” Alternate translation: “When you are making decisions in your gates, judge in a way that is true and just and causes people to live peacefully with each other” (See: Abstract Nouns)

The assumed knowledge is that this refers to the places where judgment took place. Alternate translation: “in your places of judgment” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 8:17

Zechariah 8:18

Here “me” refers to Zechariah.

Zechariah 8:19

“The fasts of months 4, 5, 7, and 10” (See: Ordinal Numbers)

The assumed knowledge is that the Jews mourned during a part of the fourth month of the Hebrew calendar because this is when the Babylonians broke through the walls of Jerusalem. The fourth month is during the last part of June and the first part of July on Western calendars. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Hebrew Months)

The assumed knowledge is that the Jewish people fasted during a part of the fifth month of the Hebrew calendar because this is when the Babylonians destroyed the temple in Jerusalem. The fifth month is during the last part of July and the first part of August on Western calendars. See how you translated this in Zechariah 7:3. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Hebrew Months)

The assumed knowledge is that the Jews mourned during a part of the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar because in this month the remaining Jews in Jerusalem fled to Egypt after the murder of Gedaliah, whom the king of Babylon appointed as governor over Judah. The seventh month is during the last part of September and the first part of October on Western calendars. See how you translated this in Zechariah 7:5. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Hebrew Months)

The assumed knowledge is that the Jews mourned during a part of the tenth month of the Hebrew calendar because this is when the Babylonians began their siege against Jerusalem. The tenth month is during the last part of December and the first part of January on Western calendars. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and Hebrew Months)

The abstract nouns “joy” and “gladness” can be translated using adjectives. Alternate translation: “joyful and glad times, with happy festivals” (See: Abstract Nouns)

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the people in the kingdom of Judah, which included the descendants of Judah and Benjamin. Alternate translation: “the people of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

The abstract nouns “truth” and “peace” can be translated using adjectives. Alternate translation: “love what is truthful and peaceful” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Zechariah 8:20

The implied information is that Jerusalem is where the people will come. Alternate translation: “People will come again to Jerusalem” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 8:21

This is a metonym for the people in the other city. Alternate translation: “will go to the people of another city” (See: Metonymy)

Here the word “beg” means to plead or ask urgently.

Here “face” is a metonym for Yahweh’s presence. See how you translated this in Zechariah 7:2. Alternate translation: “in the presence of Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

Those who want to know Yahweh and please him are spoken of as if they are literally seeking to find Yahweh. (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 8:22

This is a metonym for the people in the mighty nations. Alternate translation: “people of mighty nations” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 8:23

The implied information is that the foreigners will grab their robe to get their attention. Alternate translation: “will grasp the hem of your robe to get your attention” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The implied information is that people of God are going to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “Let us go to Jerusalem with you” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Alternate translation: “God is with you people”

Zechariah 9

Zechariah 9 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is written mainly in prose about the cities and peoples around where Israel stood as a country until the exile.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 9:9-10.

Special concepts in this chapter

Prophecies against other nations

The first two verses show that the prophecy concerns neighboring countries. Hamath, Damscus, Tyre and Sidon are cities in areas that were near Israel. (See: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess)

Zechariah 9:1

Alternate translation: “This is Yahweh’s message about”

Here “Hadrak” and “Damascus” refer to the people who live in those places. Alternate translation: “the people of the land of Hadrak and the city Damascus” (See: Metonymy and How to Translate Names)

The location of Hadrak is unknown today.

Alternate translation: “the resting place of the people of Hadrak”

Some versions translate this as “for Yahweh’s eye is on all mankind and on the tribes of Israel.”

Here “eyes” refers to what they look at. Alternate translation: “all humanity and all the tribes of Israel look toward Yahweh” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 9:2

This refers to the people who live in that land. Alternate translation: “the people of the land of Hamath” (See: Metonymy)

This refers to the people who live in those cities. Alternate translation: “the people of Tyre and Sidon” (See: Metonymy)

This could mean: (1) the people are wise for looking at Yahweh for help or (2) Zechariah did not really mean that the people of Hamath were wise and was using irony. Alternate translation: “though they think they are very wise” (See: Irony)

Zechariah 9:3

Here the city of Tyre is pictured as a woman. Alternate translation: “built a strong fortress” or “built a high wall” (See: Personification)

Yahweh exaggerates to emphasize how rich Tyre was. Alternate translation: “accumulated silver and gold as much as soil in the streets” (See: Hyperbole)

Zechariah 9:4

Here “Look!” tells the reader to pay attention to the important statement that follows. Alternate translation: “Pay attention! The Lord will take away Tyre’s possessions”

Tyre’s “strength on the sea” refers to the ships that were used for commerce and conquest. Alternate translation: “destroy Tyre’s ships in which men fight on the sea” (See: Metonymy)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and enemies will burn the city to the ground” (See: Active or Passive)

Zechariah 9:5

These cities each refer to the people who live in them. Alternate translation: “The people of Ashkelon … the people of Gaza … the hopes of the people of Ekron” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “will see Tyre be destroyed”

Zechariah 9:6

Alternate translation: “Foreigners will take over Ashdod and live there”

Here “cut off” is an idiom that means to stop their pride. Alternate translation: “I will make the Philistines to be proud of themselves no longer” (See: Idiom)

Zechariah 9:7

Here “blood” is a metonym for meat with blood in it, and “abominations” is a metonym for meat offered to idols. Alternate translation: “I will no longer allow them to eat meat that still has blood in it, and I will forbid them to eat food that they offered to idols” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 9:8

God is speaking about himself as if he were an army that was protecting his land. Alternate translation: “I will protect my land” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “For at that time”

Here “my own eyes” represent Yahweh’s personal attention. Alternate translation: “I will personally watch over my land” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 9:9

Yahweh appears to be the speaker in verses 9-13.

These two sentences mean the same thing and intensify the command to rejoice. Yahweh is speaking to the people of Jerusalem as if they were present, but they were not there. (See: Parallelism and Apostrophe)

“Zion” is the same as “Jerusalem.” The prophet speaks of the city as if it is a daughter. See how you translated “daughter of Zion” in Zechariah 2:10.

This alerts the reader to pay special attention to the surprising statement that follows. Alternate translation: “Pay attention!” or “Here is a surprising fact!”

Alternate translation: “Your king is righteous and is coming to rescue you”

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and refer to one animal. The second phrase clarifies that this is a young donkey. Alternate translation: “on a young donkey” (See: Doublet)

Zechariah 9:10

Here “cut off” is an idiom that means to destroy. Alternate translation: “destroy the chariots in Israel that are used for battle”

The references to “chariot” and “bow” means that this refers to horses used in battle. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “the warhorses in Jerusalem” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Here the bow represents all weapons used in warfare. Alternate translation: “all weapons of war will be destroyed” (See: Synecdoche)

Here the action of announcing peace represents the action of making peace. Alternate translation: “for your king will bring peace to the nations” (See: Metonymy)

The phrases “sea to sea” and “from the River to the ends of the earth” mean the same thing and can be combined. Alternate translation: “his kingdom will be over all the earth!” (See: Doublet)

This probably refers to the Euphrates River.

Zechariah 9:11

Yahweh appears to be the speaker in verses 9-13.

Here “you” is singular, and continues to refer to the city of Jerusalem, also called “Zion.”

This dry pit represents the exile in Babylon. (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 9:12

Jerusalem is spoken of as a place of safety. Alternate translation: “Come back to your nation where you will be safe” (See: Metaphor)

This expression refers to the Israelites in exile who were still trusting in God to rescue them. Alternate translation: “prisoners who still hope in Yahweh”

Alternate translation: “return to you twice as much as was taken from you”

Zechariah 9:13

This refers to the city of Jerusalem, also called “Zion.”

The people of Judah are referred to as if they were a bow carried by God into battle. Here “Judah” refers to the people of that nation. Alternate translation: “I will cause the people of Judah to be like my bow” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

Yahweh speaks of the people of Israel, the northern kingdom, as if they were arrows that he would shoot at his enemies. A quiver is a bag that holds a soldier’s arrows. (See: Metaphor)

God is speaking to the people of two different nations at the same time. (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 9:14

In verses 14-16, Zechariah describes how Yahweh will rescue Israel from their enemies.

The word “them” refers to God’s people. Alternate translation: “will be seen in the sky by his people” or “will come to his people”

The Israelites sometimes thought of lightning bolts as arrows that God shot. (See: Simile)

The trumpets were rams’ horns. People blew into them to give signals in battle and on other occasions. Here the trumpet is blown as a military signal.

Team was located to the south of Judah. The Israelites sometimes thought of God as traveling on violent storms coming from the south. Alternate translation: “will march from Teman with the storm winds”

Zechariah 9:15

Alternate translation: “the people of Judah will devour their enemies”

To completely defeat enemies is spoken of as devouring them as a wild animal eats its prey. Alternate translation: “will completely defeat” (See: Metaphor)

Slings to throw stones were a common weapon in the days of Zechariah. Here the “stones of the slings” represent the soldiers who were using them to attack Israel. Alternate translation: “defeat the enemies who attack them with slings and stones” (See: Metonymy)

The people of Judah will shout and celebrate their victory over their enemies as if they were noisy drunks. Alternate translation: “Then they will shout and celebrate their victory as loudly as if they were drunk” (See: Simile)

This probably refers to the bowls that the priests used to carry animal’s blood to the altar. Alternate translation: “they will be as full of wine as the basins with which priests carry blood to the altar” (See: Simile and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Altars had projecting corners that were drenched in animal blood. Alternate translation: “they will be drenched as the corners of the altar are covered in blood” (See: Simile and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 9:16

In verses 14-16, Zechariah describes how Yahweh will rescue Israel from their enemies.

The people of Israel are spoken of as if they are God’s sheep that he cares for and protects. (See: Simile)

The people of Israel are spoken of as if they were the expensive jewels in the crown of a king that show how glorious he is. Alternate translation: “They will be like beautiful stones in a crown” (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 9:17

This is an exclamation, and not a question. Alternate translation: “They will be very good and beautiful!” (See: Exclamations)

This sentence uses a parallel structure to express that everyone will have plenty to eat and drink. If your readers might think that only the men ate and only the women drank, you may want to adjust the wording. Alternate translation: “All of the people, both men and women, will have plenty of grain to eat and sweet wine to drink!” (See: Parallelism)

These two phrases are parallel and together represent the entire population of Israel. (See: Parallelism and Synecdoche)

These two phrases are parallel and together represent all of the different kinds of the food and drink. (See: Parallelism and Synecdoche)

Zechariah 10

Zechariah 10 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is written mainly in prose but still uses figurative language as the writer shares a message of redemption and hope for the exiles. (See: redeem, redeemer, redemption)

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 10:1-2.

Special concepts in this chapter

Redemption

This book, and especially this chapter, uses the concepts of redemption and remnant to share the relationship that the people of Judah have with their God. So many of the people of Israel perished as their kingdom went into exile. Now they are returning to the land, but the land is no longer theirs. They are living under foreign rule. (See: redeem, redeemer, redemption and remnant)

Zechariah 10:1

Alternate translation: “causes plants to grow in the field”

Zechariah 10:2

“household idols give false messages.” Zechariah is not suggesting that idols actually speak. He is referring to the messages people say they hear from idols. The UST makes this explicit.

Alternate translation: “diviners see false visions”

It is implied that they know these dreams are false. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “diviners lie about their dreams in order to deceive people” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This refers to words that sooth temporarily, but do not provide any longterm help.

The people who do not have true prophets who tell the truth are spoken of as sheep who do not have a shepherd to tell them where to go. Alternate translation: “the people who listen to the false prophets are like sheep who do not know which way to go” (See: Simile)

The people who do not have true prophets are spoken of as sheep who suffer because they do not have a shepherd to tell them where to go. Alternate translation: “the people who listen to the false prophets … are suffering like sheep who do not have a shepherd to guide them” (See: Simile)

Zechariah 10:3

It is unclear whether Yahweh is speaking, or if Zechariah is speaking for Yahweh in verses 3-5.

Here “the shepherds” represent the leaders of God’s people. The intensity of Yahweh’s anger is spoken of as if it was a blazing fire. Alternate translation: “My anger toward the shepherds of my people is as intense as a fire” or “I am very angry with the leaders of my people” (See: Metaphor)

Male goats are typically more dominant than female goats. Here “male goats” represents the oppressive leaders of God’s people. (See: Metaphor)

Here Yahweh’s care for his people is spoken of as a shepherd cares for his sheep. Alternate translation: “Yahweh of hosts will take care of the house of Judah as a shepherd cares for his sheep”

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the people of Judah, which included the descendants of Judah and Benjamin. Alternate translation: “Judah” or “the people of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

Yahweh changes the metaphor for his people from defenseless sheep to a mighty war horse. He speaks of his people as if they were a strong horse in battle. Alternate translation: “will cause them to be strong like war horses in battle” (See: Metaphor and Simile)

Zechariah 10:4

It is unclear whether Yahweh is speaking, or if Zechariah is speaking for Yahweh in verses 3-5.

“The cornerstone will come from Judah.” The most important ruler is spoken of as if he where the main foundation stone of a building. Alternate translation: “One of the descendants of Judah will become the most important ruler” (See: Metaphor)

This could mean: (1) they may be symbolic language that refers to the Messiah who will come from the tribe of Judah or (2) they may refer to different leaders who will come from Judah. (See: Symbolic Language)

“the tent peg will come from him.” The tent pegs held the ropes that supported tents in which people lived. Here the most important ruler is spoken of as if he where the main peg that holds a tent in place. Alternate translation: “the leader who will hold the nation together will come from Judah” (See: Metaphor)

“the war bow will come from him.” Here the most important ruler is spoken of as if he where the a war bow that was used in battle. Alternate translation: “the military leader will come from Judah” (See: Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “every ruler will come from Judah”

Zechariah 10:5

The rulers from Judah are spoken of as if they were victorious warriors. Alternate translation: “They will be mighty in battle, trampling their enemies into the mud of the streets” (See: Simile)

To trample them into the mud is an idiom that means to completely defeat them. Alternate translation: “who defeat their enemies completely” (See: Idiom)

Here “with them” is an idiom that means he is present to help them. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will help them” (See: Idiom)

Here shame accompanies and represents defeat. Alternate translation: “they will defeat their enemies who ride warhorses” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 10:6

In verses 6-12, Yahweh is speaking to the people of Israel.

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the kingdom of Judah, which included the descendants of Judah and Benjamin. Alternate translation: “Judah” or “the kingdom of Judah” or “the people of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to the kingdom of Israel. Alternate translation: “Israel” or “the kingdom of Israel” or “the people of Israel” (See: Metonymy)

This speaks of the people as a torn or dirty garment that Yahweh took off and threw away. This symbolizes rejection. Alternate translation: “I had not rejected them” (See: Metaphor and Symbolic Action)

Zechariah 10:7

“Ephraim” refers here to the northern kingdom of Israel. Warriors are strong. Alternate translation: “Ephraim will be very strong” (See: Simile)

Here “hearts” refers to the whole person. They will have the same joy as a person who is enjoying drinking wine. Alternate translation: “and they will be very happy” (See: Synecdoche and Simile)

Alternate translation: “their children will see what has taken place and will be happy because of what Yahweh has done for them!”

Zechariah 10:8

In verses 6-12, Yahweh is speaking to the people of Israel.

To whistle is to produce a high, shrill sound with air through narrowed lips. It is often done to give a signal to other people, as here.

Zechariah 10:9

The exile of the people is spoken of as if they were seed that Yahweh had planted in a distant land. (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 10:10

The people will continue to go back to Judah and it will become crowded with no room for any more people to live there. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “and they will completely fill the land”

Zechariah 10:11

In verses 6-12, Yahweh is speaking to the people of Israel.

Scripture often refers to the sea as an image of many troubles and hardships. Here Yahweh speaks of himself accompanying the people to help them go through these afflictions. Alternate translation: “I will go with them and help them as they go through their many afflictions” (See: Metaphor)

Here to “strike” the waves is an idiom that means he will stop the waves from forming. Stopping the afflictions of his people is spoken of as calming the waves of that sea. Alternate translation: “I will cause the waves of that sea of affliction to stop” (See: Idiom and Metaphor)

Alternate translation: “I will cause the Nile River to lose all its water”

Here “the majesty of Assyria” probably refers to the Assyrian army. Alternate translation: “I will destroy Assyria’s proud army” (See: Metonymy)

Here “the scepter of Egypt” refers to the political power of Egypt. Alternate translation: “the power of Egypt to rule other nations will end” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 10:12

Alternate translation: “I will cause them to be strong and to believe in me”

Zechariah 11

Zechariah 11 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter unlike the previous one is a warning against the leaders amongst the exiles.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 11:1-3, 17.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

This chapter uses an extended metaphor of sheep and shepherds to convey Yahweh’s dismay at the leaders during the exiles. (See: Metaphor)

Symbolism

The writer uses symbolism. Zechariah is told to become a shepherd. He uses two staffs and names them “Unity” and “Favor.” He does this very purposefully. In order to preserve this symbolism, it is important to pay attention to the specific words used. (See: favor, favorable, favoritism)

Zechariah 11:1

Not resisting what is about to happen is spoken of as if Lebanon were opening its doors. Here “Lebanon” is a metonym that represents the people of Lebanon. Alternate translation: “People of Lebanon, get ready, because fire will devour” or “People of Lebanon, do not try to stop the fire that will devour” (See: Metaphor and Metonymy)

Fire completely burning up the cedars is spoken of as if the fire would devour the cedars. Alternate translation: “fire may completely destroy your cedars” or “fire may completely burn up your cedars” (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 11:2

Cypress trees are spoken of as if they could grieve like a human. Alternate translation: “If the trees were people, they would cry out in sorrow. The cypress trees stand alone because the cedars have burned and fallen” (See: Personification)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The majestic cedar trees are no more” or “The cedar trees were once majestic, but now they are ruined” (See: Active or Passive)

The oaks of Bash are spoken of as if they could grieve like a human. Alternate translation: “If the oak trees in Bashan were people, they would wail, for their thick forests are gone” (See: Personification)

Zechariah 11:3

Alternate translation: “The shepherds cry out loudly”

Here “their glory” probably represents the rich pastures that the shepherds led their sheep to. Alternate translation: “for their rich pastures are ruined” (See: Metonymy)

Here “the pride” probably represents the forests that grew near the Jordan River. Alternate translation: “because the trees and shrubbery where they lived by the Jordan River are ruined” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 11:4

In 11:4-17 is a story about two shepherds. This could mean: (1) Zechariah actually became a shepherd over a flock as a symbolic act showing how Yahweh will treat his people or (2) Zechariah tells a parable that teaches how Yahweh will treat his people. Since it is uncertain which of these meanings is correct, it would be best not to specify either option in the translation. (See: Symbolic Action and Parables)

Alternate translation: “take care of a flock of sheep that the owners plan to slaughter”

Zechariah 11:5

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “no one punishes them” (See: Active or Passive)

Zechariah 11:6

Alternate translation: “Listen!” or “Pay attention!”

The word “myself” is used to emphasize that it is Yahweh who will do these things. (See: Reflexive Pronouns)

Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “allow the people to harm each other and the king will oppress them” (See: Metonymy)

Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “I will not save them from those who are harming them” or “I will not rescue them” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 11:7

Alternate translation: “for those who bought and sold sheep”

Other versions of the Bible translate this word as “grace,” “beauty,” or “pleasant.”

Zechariah 11:8

This could mean: (1) “them” refers to the three shepherds or (2) “them” refers to the sheep owners.

Zechariah 11:9

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the sheep that are perishing—let them perish” or “the sheep that are to wander and get lost—let them get lost” (See: Active or Passive)

Zechariah 11:11

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the covenant ended” (See: Active or Passive)

It is implied that those watching knew Yahweh was giving them a message through the breaking of the staff. Alternate translation: “knew that Yahweh had given them a message” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 11:12

It is implied that this was very little pay for the shepherd. Alternate translation: “only thirty pieces of silver” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

“30 pieces” (See: Numbers)

Zechariah 11:13

This is the place in the temple of Yahweh where the priests kept the money. Many versions of the Bible translate this as “potter.” This is the person who would melt metal to make vessels out of it. Here Yahweh would mean that the payment is so small that the shepherd should have the silver melted to show how insulted he was.

Yahweh uses irony to say that this price was very small for a shepherd doing Yahweh’s work. Alternate translation: “the ridiculously small amount of money” (See: Irony)

Zechariah 11:14

Here “Judah” represents the people of the southern kingdom and “Israel” represents the people of the northern kingdom. Alternate translation: “between the people of Judah and the people of Israel” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 11:16

Here “set in place” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “I am about to appoint a shepherd in the land” or “I am about to put a shepherd in charge in the land” (See: Idiom)

Alternate translation: “the fattest sheep” or “the best sheep”

This was probably done as an act of cruelty.

Zechariah 11:17

Here “sword” represents enemies who will attack the shepherd. Alternate translation: “May enemies” (See: Metonymy)

Here “come against” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “strike and wound his right arm and pierce his right eye” (See: Idiom)

Here “arm” represents the power to fight. (See: Metonymy)

A soldier would use his right eye to look around the shield that he held with his left hand. If his right eye was wounded, he would not be able to see to fight in war. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Alternate translation: “his arm waste away” or “his arm become completely useless”

Zechariah 12

Zechariah 12 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Similar to chapter 11, this chapter is written mainly in prose and is talking about Jerusalem.

Special concepts in this chapter

Prophecy

Verses 10-11 are quoted in the New Testament and apply to Jesus’ death on the cross. (See: cross)

Zechariah 12:1

These verses begin a section that tells about the coming attack against Jerusalem and how God will rescue the city.

This is a metaphor that speaks of the sky as if it were like a scroll that is rolled up and needs to be stretched out. Alternate translation: “the one who created the sky” (See: Metaphor)

This is a metaphor that speaks of the earth as if it were a building with a foundation. Alternate translation: “put all the earth into place” (See: Metaphor)

This is a metaphor that speaks of the spirit as if it were like clay that a potter shapes. Alternate translation: “creates the human spirit”

Zechariah 12:2

Yahweh using Jerusalem to punish the surrounding peoples is spoken of as if Yahweh would make Jerusalem a cup full of an alcoholic drink that will cause the surrounding peoples to get drunk and stagger. Alternate translation: “Soon it will be like I make Jerusalem into a cup … to stagger about” (See: Metaphor)

Here “cup” represents the cup and the contents within the cup. Alternate translation: “into a cup full of wine” or “into a cup full of an alcoholic drink” (See: Metonymy)

Here “her” refers to the city of Jerusalem. It was common in Hebrew to speak of a city or country as if it were a woman. (See: Personification)

Zechariah 12:3

Yahweh using Jerusalem to punish the surrounding peoples is spoken of as if he would make Jerusalem a heavy stone. Alternate translation: “It will be like I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the peoples” (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 12:4

These verses continue telling about the coming attack against Jerusalem and how God will rescue the city.

Opening eyes over someone here is a metaphor for wanting to do good things for that person. Alternate translation: “I will do good things for the house of Judah” or “I will protect the house of Judah” (See: Metaphor)

Here “house” represents people. Alternate translation: “the people of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 12:5

Here “hearts” represents a person’s mind. Alternate translation: “think to themselves” or “say to themselves” (See: Metonymy)

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word strength, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “strong” or “encourage.” Alternate translation: “make us strong” or “encourage us” (See: Abstract Nouns)

Alternate translation: “Yahweh of hosts, the God they worship”

Zechariah 12:6

This simile means Yahweh will enable the leaders of Judah to be strong and able to lead the people to defeat their enemies. Alternate translation: “like firepots among stacked firewood … unharvested stalks of grain standing in a field” (See: Simile)

clay pots in which ancient people often carried burning coals

a wooden stick that is burning at one end which gives light as one travels or carries fire somewhere

Completely destroying the peoples is spoken of as if the people of Judah will “devour” them. Alternate translation: “will destroy the surrounding peoples” (See: Metaphor)

Here “right” and “left” represent every direction. Alternate translation: “in every direction” (See: Merism)

Here “Jerusalem” represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “The people of Jerusalem will again live in their own city” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 12:7

These verses continue telling about the coming attack against Jerusalem and how God will rescue the city.

Here “tents” represents homes, and homes represent the people who live in them. Alternate translation: “the people of Judah” (See: Metonymy)

This could mean: (1) the descendants of David or (2) the ruling class of people. (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 12:8

This simile means those who are weak will be strong. Alternate translation: “those who are weak will be strong like David” (See: Simile)

This is an angel sent by Yahweh to protect the people.

Zechariah 12:10

Causing the people to be compassionate and to plead is spoken of as if the spirit were a liquid that Yahweh would pour on them. Alternate translation: “I will cause the house of David and inhabitants of Jerusalem to have mercy on others and to pray to me for mercy” (See: Metaphor)

Here this means to have a characteristic of compassion and pleading.

Here “house” represents descendants. Alternate translation: “the descendants of David” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “the one whom they stabbed to death”

It is understood that the “son” has died. Alternate translation: “for an only son who has died” (See: Ellipsis)

Zechariah 12:11

Hadad Rimmon may have been the place where the good King Josiah died of battle wounds after the Battle of Megiddo. It appears that the custom arose to hold periodic mourning there for his death. Some people, however, think that Hadad Rimmon was the name of a false god who was believed to die every year, an event for which his worshipers would go into mourning. (See: How to Translate Names and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This is the name of a plain in Israel. (See: How to Translate Names)

Zechariah 12:12

This represents all the people living in the land of Judah. Alternate translation: “All the people in the land of Judah will mourn” (See: Metonymy)

Here “house” represents descendants. Alternate translation: “The descendants of David … The descendants of Nathan” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 12:13

Here “house” represents descendants. Alternate translation: “The descendants of Levi” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 13

Zechariah 13 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is written partly in prose and partly in poetry.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 13:7-9.

Special concepts in this chapter

Zechariah often speaks of the last days by using the phrase “that day” or “in that day.” When referencing a future “day,” the translator should be aware that it is possible that the author is speaking about the last days. (See: last day, latter days)

Zechariah 13:1

Forgiving the people’s sins is spoken of as if a spring of water will wash away their sins. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “it will be like a spring opens … to cleanse their sin and impurity” (See: Metaphor and Active or Passive)

a place where water flows naturally out of the ground

Here “house” represents descendants. Alternate translation: “the descendants of David” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 13:2

Causing the people to no longer mention the names of idols is spoken of as if Yahweh would “cut off the names of the idols from the land.” Alternate translation: “I will cause the people to no longer mention the names of the idols” (See: Metaphor)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that they no longer think about the idols” (See: Idiom and Active or Passive)

The prophets may refer to “false prophets.” The spirit of impurity is spoken of as if it were physically unclean. Alternate translation: “I will also remove from the land the false prophets and their evil spirits” (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 13:3

It is implied that these are false prophecies. Alternate translation: “to prophesy falsely” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

The phrase “who bore him” describes “his father and mother” in order to express surprise that someone’s own parents would treat him in this way. Alternate translation: “his own father and mother” (See: Distinguishing Versus Informing or Reminding)

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “You must die”

Speaking in the name of someone means speaking with his power and authority, or as his representative. Alternate translation: “you claim to speak for Yahweh but you speak lies” (See: Metonymy)

Alternate translation: “will stab and kill him”

Zechariah 13:4

This implies false prophets. Alternate translation: “every false prophet” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Prophets often wore heavy outer garments made of animal hair. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 13:5

Alternate translation: “I am a farmer”

Some versions of the Bible translate this as “a man sold me as a slave when I was young.” Alternate translation: “I became a farmer when I was young”

Zechariah 13:6

“How did you get those cuts on your chest?” This refers to the apparent custom of false prophets wounding themselves in their ceremonies. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

It is implied that his answer is a lie. Alternate translation: “he will lie to him saying” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 13:7

Zechariah often wrote prophecy in the form of poetry. Hebrew poetry uses different kinds of parallelism. Here Yahweh begins speaking. (See: Poetry and Parallelism)

“You, sword! Go and attack my shepherd.” Here Yahweh speaks to a sword as if it were a person. Here it represents enemies. Alternate translation: “You, enemies! Go and attack my shepherd” (See: Personification)

This speaks of a servant of Yahweh as if he were a shepherd. Alternate translation: “my servant who is like a shepherd” (See: Metaphor)

The people of God are spoken of as if they were sheep. Alternate translation: “my people will run away like sheep” (See: Metaphor)

The idiom “turn my hand against” means to act hostile towards someone. Alternate translation: “I will attack the lowly ones” (See: Idiom)

This probably refers to all the Israelites who are weak and defenseless.

Zechariah 13:8

People being killed is spoken of as if they are cut off like cloth is cut from a garment or a branch is cut from a plant. Alternate translation: “that two out of every three people will die! Only one person out of three will remain in the land” (See: Metaphor and Fractions)

Zechariah 13:9

Metal is passed through fire in order to purify or harden it. This expression serves here as a metaphor for exposing the people to suffering in order that they may become more faithful to God. (See: Metaphor)

Refining refers to making precious metals such as silver more pure. Metals such as silver and gold are tested in order to discover how pure or strong they are. Both refining and testing are here metaphors for making the people more faithful to God. (See: Metaphor)

Here “name” represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: “They will call out to me” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 14

Zechariah 14 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is written in prose about Jerusalem during the last days. (See: last day, latter days)

Special concepts in this chapter

Last days

Zechariah 14:1

This chapter describes the final war for the city of Jerusalem and how God will save it.

A future time is spoken of as if “a day is coming.” The phrase “will be divided” can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Soon Yahweh will judge you, and he will allow your enemies to take all of your possessions and divide if for themselves while you watch” (See: Metaphor and Active or Passive)

Zechariah 14:2

Here “every nation” is a generalization that means “many nations.” Alternate translation: “I will cause many nations to attack Jerusalem” (See: Hyperbole)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “your enemies will capture the city” (See: Active or Passive)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Enemies will plunder the houses and rape the women” (See: Active or Passive)

Not removing people from the city is spoken of as if the people will not be “cut off.” If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “your enemies will allow the remaining people to stay in the city” (See: Active or Passive)

Zechariah 14:3

These verses continue the description of the final war for the city of Jerusalem and of how God will save it. In this prophecy, Yahweh is described as a warrior who will come and fight in battle.

Alternate translation: “just as he fought battles in the past”

Zechariah 14:4

Alternate translation: “At that time”

Here “feet” represents Yahweh. Alternate translation: “he will stand on the Mount of Olives” (See: Synecdoche)

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The presences of Yahweh will split the Mount of Olives … causing there to be a very great valley” (See: Active or Passive)

Zechariah 14:5

These verses continue the description of the final war for the city of Jerusalem and of how God will save her.

Here “you” is plural and refers to the people of Jerusalem. (See: Forms of You)

This refers to the mountains created after the Mount of Olives split in half.

This is the name of a town or village east of Jerusalem. (See: How to Translate Names)

Here “You will” refers to the people of Jerusalem. But, “you fled” refers to their ancestors since this describes an event that happened many years earlier. Alternate translation: “You will flee just as your ancestors fled” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Here “in the days” is an idiom that refers to the time when Uzziah was king. Alternate translation: “when Uzziah was king of Judah” (See: Idiom)

This probably refers to God’s angels.

Zechariah 14:6

These verses continue the description of the final war for the city of Jerusalem and of how God will save her.

Alternate translation: “At that time”

It is implied that there will be no light from the sun. Alternate translation: “there will be no light from the sun” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 14:7

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “only Yahweh knows when that day will begin” or “only Yahweh knows when that time will begin” (See: Active or Passive)

Zechariah 14:8

This normally means running or flowing water, rather than still or stagnant water. (See: Idiom)

This refers to the Dead Sea, which is east of Jerusalem.

This refers to the Mediterranean Sea.

Zechariah 14:9

These verses continue the description of the final war for the city of Jerusalem and of how God will save her.

Here “name” represents Yahweh’s reputation or character. Alternate translation: “people will know that Yahweh is the only true God” or “people will only worship Yahweh, the one true God” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 14:10

It is implied that this is the land of Judah. Alternate translation: “All the land of Judah” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This is the name of a plain in the Jordan River Valley. (See: How to Translate Names)

This is the name of a town on the northern border of Judah. (See: How to Translate Names)

This is the name of a town south of Jerusalem. (See: How to Translate Names)

This contrasts Jerusalem, which will remain at a higher elevation, to the surrounding area, which is lower in elevation. The contrast can be indicated by adding the word “but.” This can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “But, Jerusalem will remain high up” (See: Connecting Words and Phrases and Active or Passive)

These are names of gates in the northeast part of city wall of Jerusalem. This could mean: (1) “the first gate” and “the Corner Gate” refer to the same gate or (2) “the first gate” and “the Corner gate” are separate gates. (See: How to Translate Names and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

This refers to a strong point in the city defenses on the northern wall. It was probably built by a man named Hananel. (See: How to Translate Names)

This probably refers to the place where wine was made for the royal family. It was located in the southwest part of Jerusalem. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 14:11

Here “Jerusalem” represents the people. Alternate translation: “The people will live safely in Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

Zechariah 14:12

These verses continue the description of the final war for the city of Jerusalem and of how God will save her.

“while they are still standing up.” This emphasizes how quickly their flesh will rot away. They will not even have time to lie down.

Zechariah 14:13

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word fear, you could express the same idea with a verbal form such as “terrified.” Alternate translation: “Yahweh will cause the people to be very terrified” (See: Abstract Nouns)

These are idioms that refer to being hostile towards another person. Alternate translation: “Each person will grab someone, and they will fight each other” (See: Idiom)

Zechariah 14:14

These verses continue the description of the final war for the city of Jerusalem and of how God will save her.

Here “Judah” and “Jerusalem” represent the people that live there. Alternate translation: “Even the other people in Judah will fight against the people of Jerusalem” (See: Metonymy)

Some versions of the Bible read, “Judah will also fight at Jerusalem.”

Alternate translation: “They will capture all the valuable possessions”

Alternate translation: “in great quantities”

Zechariah 14:16

These verses continue the description of the final war for the city of Jerusalem and of how God will save her.

Here “came against” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “that attacked Jerusalem” (See: Idiom)

Alternate translation: “will instead go to Jerusalem every year”

Alternate translation: “the Festival of Tabernacles” or “the Festival of Booths” or “the Festival of Tents”

Zechariah 14:18

Causing people to suffer from a plague is spoken of as if the plague would attack the people like an army. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will cause a plague among the people of the nations” (See: Metaphor)

Zechariah 14:19

These verses continue the description of the final war for the city of Jerusalem and of how God will save her.

Zechariah 14:20

These verses continue the description of the final war for the city of Jerusalem and of how God will save her.

Alternate translation: “the inscription on the bells of the horses will say”

These basins were used for boiling meat in the courtyard of the temple. Alternate translation: “the cooking pots in the courtyard of the temple” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

It is implied that the basins will be sacred like the bowls used for catching the blood of the sacrifices. Alternate translation: “will be as sacred as the bowls used at the altar” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Zechariah 14:21

Various types of pots and utensils were made especially to be used in the temple for the worship of Yahweh and for the sacrifices. These were considered special, not to be used for anything else.

It was the custom for traders to sell the people things they needed in order to make proper sacrifices to Yahweh in the temple. Alternate translation: “people will no longer buy or sell things in the courtyard of the temple of Yahweh” (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

Some versions of the Bible translate “traders” as “Canaanites.”

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Zechariah

Zechariah front

Introduction to Zechariah

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of Zechariah

What is the Book of Zechariah about?

How should the title of this book be translated?

Who wrote the Book of Zechariah?

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Did Zechariah prophesy before Ezra, Nehemiah, and Haggai?

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What is the meaning of the term “Israel”?

What imagery does Zechariah use in reference to the Messiah?

What does the phrase “that day” mean?

Zechariah 1

Zechariah 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Special concepts in this chapter

Visions

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Date

Zechariah 1:1

Zechariah 1:2

Zechariah 1:3

Zechariah 1:4

Zechariah 1:5

Zechariah 1:6

Zechariah 1:7

Zechariah 1:8

Zechariah 1:9

Zechariah 1:10

Zechariah 1:11

Zechariah 1:12

Zechariah 1:13

Zechariah 1:14

Zechariah 1:15

Zechariah 1:16

Zechariah 1:17

Zechariah 1:18

Zechariah 1:19

Zechariah 1:20

Zechariah 1:21

Zechariah 2

Zechariah 2 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Special concepts in this chapter

Visions

Important figures of speech in this chapter

“This is Yahweh’s declaration”

Zechariah 2:1

Zechariah 2:2

Zechariah 2:3

Zechariah 2:4

Zechariah 2:5

Zechariah 2:6

Zechariah 2:7

Zechariah 2:8

Zechariah 2:9

Zechariah 2:10

Zechariah 2:11

Zechariah 2:12

Zechariah 2:13

Zechariah 3

Zechariah 3 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Difficult concepts in this chapter

Visions

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

The high priest

Zechariah 3:1

Zechariah 3:2

Zechariah 3:3

Zechariah 3:4

Zechariah 3:5

Zechariah 3:6

Zechariah 3:7

Zechariah 3:8

Zechariah 3:9

Zechariah 3:10