For I will gather all the nations for battle against Jerusalem, and the city will be captured, the houses looted, and the women ravished. Half of the city will go into exile, but the rest of the people will not be removed from the city. For I will gatherThe phrase "For I will gather" indicates divine sovereignty and intentionality. The Hebrew root for "gather" is "קָבַץ" (qavats), which often implies a purposeful assembling. This gathering is not random but orchestrated by God, highlighting His control over historical events. In the biblical narrative, God often gathers nations for judgment or to fulfill His purposes, as seen in the prophetic literature. all the nations
The term "all the nations" suggests a universal scope, indicating that this is not a localized event but one with global implications. Historically, Jerusalem has been a focal point for many nations, and this prophecy underscores its significance in eschatological events. The involvement of "all the nations" can be seen as a fulfillment of the prophetic theme where Jerusalem becomes the center of God's redemptive plan. against Jerusalem
"Against Jerusalem" signifies opposition and conflict. Jerusalem, the city of peace, often finds itself at the center of spiritual and physical battles. The Hebrew name "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim) means "foundation of peace," yet it has been a city of contention throughout history. This phrase highlights the paradox of Jerusalem's role in God's plan—both a place of divine presence and human conflict. to wage war
The phrase "to wage war" indicates an active, aggressive stance. The Hebrew root "לָחַם" (lacham) means to fight or engage in battle. This is not merely a siege but an all-out war, reflecting the intensity of the conflict. Biblically, war often serves as a backdrop for divine intervention and judgment, setting the stage for God's ultimate victory. the city will be captured
"The city will be captured" speaks to the temporary triumph of the nations over Jerusalem. The Hebrew word "לָכַד" (lakad) means to seize or take possession. This captures the reality of Jerusalem's vulnerability, yet it also sets the stage for God's deliverance. Historically, Jerusalem has been captured multiple times, each event serving as a reminder of the city's tumultuous history and prophetic destiny. the houses looted
The phrase "the houses looted" conveys the chaos and devastation of war. Looting is a common consequence of conquest, reflecting the breakdown of order and security. In the biblical context, looting often symbolizes judgment and the stripping away of false securities, pointing to the need for reliance on God alone. and the women raped
This tragic phrase, "and the women raped," underscores the brutality and inhumanity of war. The Hebrew word "שָׁכַב" (shakav) in this context implies violation and dishonor. Such acts are a stark reminder of the fallen state of humanity and the deep need for redemption and justice, which God promises to bring. Half of the city will go into exile
"Half of the city will go into exile" indicates a partial dispersion. The Hebrew root "גָּלָה" (galah) means to uncover or remove, often used in the context of exile. This partial exile suggests both judgment and mercy, as a remnant remains. Exile in the Bible is often a tool for purification and eventual restoration. but the rest of the people will not be removed from the city
This phrase offers hope amidst despair. "The rest of the people will not be removed" implies divine protection and preservation. The Hebrew word "יָתַר" (yatar) means to remain or be left over, often used to describe a faithful remnant. This remnant theme is prevalent in Scripture, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His covenant people and His promise of ultimate restoration. Persons / Places / Events 1. JerusalemThe central city in biblical prophecy, often representing God's chosen people and His divine plan. In this verse, it is the focal point of a future conflict involving all nations. 2. All the NationsRefers to the collective forces of the world that will come against Jerusalem. This gathering signifies a global opposition to God's purposes. 3. The City CapturedThis event indicates a temporary victory for the opposing forces, symbolizing a time of great trial and tribulation for God's people. 4. Exile and RemnantHalf of the city's population will go into exile, while the rest remain. This division highlights the theme of judgment and preservation found throughout Scripture. 5. Divine GatheringThe phrase "I will gather" indicates God's sovereign control over the events, emphasizing His ultimate authority and purpose even in times of chaos. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty in JudgmentEven in times of great distress, God remains in control. Believers can trust in His ultimate plan and purpose, knowing that He orchestrates events for His glory and our good. The Reality of Spiritual WarfareThe gathering of nations against Jerusalem symbolizes the spiritual battles believers face. We must remain vigilant and equipped with the armor of God to withstand such trials. Hope Amidst TribulationThe preservation of a remnant in Jerusalem serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness. In our own lives, we can find hope knowing that God preserves His people through trials. Call to IntercessionUnderstanding the gravity of these prophetic events should drive us to pray for Jerusalem and for the salvation of all nations, aligning our hearts with God's redemptive purposes. Living as a Faithful RemnantAs believers, we are called to be the faithful remnant, standing firm in our faith and witness, even when faced with opposition or exile. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the gathering of nations against Jerusalem in Zechariah 14:2 reflect the spiritual battles we face today? 2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the midst of global or personal crises? 3. How does the concept of a remnant in Zechariah 14:2 encourage us in our walk with Christ? 4. What parallels can we draw between the events in Zechariah 14:2 and the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 24? 5. How can we actively participate in God's redemptive plan for the nations, as seen in the prophetic events of Zechariah 14:2? Connections to Other Scriptures Joel 3This chapter also speaks of nations being gathered for judgment in the Valley of Jehoshaphat, paralleling the gathering against Jerusalem in Zechariah 14:2. Revelation 16The gathering of nations for the battle of Armageddon reflects a similar end-times scenario where global forces oppose God's people. Matthew 24Jesus' discourse on the end times includes descriptions of tribulation and the gathering of nations, echoing the themes found in Zechariah 14:2. People Azel, Benjamin, Uzziah, ZechariahPlaces Azal, Corner Gate, Egypt, Gate of Benjamin, Geba, Jerusalem, Mount of Olives, Rimmon, Tower of HananelTopics Assemble, Battle, Captivity, Captured, Cut, Exile, Exiled, Fight, Force, Forth, Gather, Gathered, Goods, Half, Houses, Jerusalem, Lain, Nations, Overcome, Plundered, Prisoners, Ransacked, Raped, Ravished, Remnant, Removal, Residue, Rest, Rifled, Spoiled, Town, War, WomenDictionary of Bible Themes Zechariah 14:2 5205 alliance
5568 suffering, causes
5606 warfare, nature of
5824 cruelty, examples
6240 rape
9155 millennium Zechariah 14:2-5 9220 day of the LORD Library Light at Evening Time
This, then, shall be the subject of my present discourse. There are different evening times that happen to the church and to God's people, and as a rule we may rest quite certain that at evening time there shall be light. God very frequently acts in grace in such a manner that we can find a parallel in nature. For instance, God says, "As the rain cometh down and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, even so shall my word be, it shall not return unto me void, it shall accomplish that which …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 3: 1857Light at Evening Time
AS WE read the Scriptures, we are continually startled by fresh discoveries of the magnificence of God. Our attention is fixed upon a passage, and presently sparklets of fire and glory dart forth. It strikes us; we are struck by it. Hence these bright coruscations. Our admiration is excited. We could not have thought that so much light could possibly lie concealed within a few words. Our text thus reveals to us in a remarkable manner the penetration, the discernment, the clear-sightedness of God. …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 62: 1916 A Peal of Bells
The text, as you perceive, deals with horses which were unclean under the Jewish law yet, in the day spoken of in the text, the horses themselves shall be purged from commonness or uncleanness, and their harness shall be dedicated to God as certainly as the vestments of the High Priest himself. It will be a happy day indeed when the men who deal with horses, too often a race anything but honest and upbeat shall exhibit in their common transactions a consecration to God, so that on the horses' furniture …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 7: 1861 24TH DAY. Eventide Light.
"He is Faithful that Promised." "At evening-time it shall be light."--ZECH. xiv. 7. Eventide Light. How inspiring the thought of coming glory! How would we rise above our sins, and sorrows, and sufferings, if we could live under the power of "a world to come!" Were faith to take at all times its giant leap beyond a soul-trammelling earth, and remember its brighter destiny. If it could stand on its Pisgah Mount, and look above and beyond the mists and vapours of this land of shadows, and rest on …
John Ross Macduff—The Faithful Promiser That all Troubles are to be Endured for the Sake of Eternal Life
"My Son, let not the labours which thou hast undertaken for Me break thee down, nor let tribulations cast thee down in any wise, but let my promise strengthen and comfort thee in every event. I am sufficient to reward thee above all measure and extent. Not long shalt thou labour here, nor always be weighed down with sorrows. Wait yet a little while, and thou shalt see a speedy end of thine evils. An hour shall come when all labour and confusion shall cease. Little and short is all that passeth …
Thomas A Kempis—Imitation of Christ Sanctified Commonplaces
In that day shall there be upon the bells of the horses, Holiness unto the Lord; and the pots in the Lord's house shall be like the bowls before the altar. Yea, every pot in Jerusalem and in Judah shall be holiness unto the Lord of hosts.' (Zechariah xiv. 20, 21.) What I have to say may not strike some of you as setting forth any very high or exalted truth, but I am satisfied as to its being a very important matter. I want to talk to you about the sanctification of the commonplace things in life. …
T. H. Howard—Standards of Life and Service The Girdle of the City. Nehemiah 3
The beginning of the circumference was from 'the sheep-gate.' That, we suppose, was seated on the south part, yet but little removed from that corner, which looks south-east. Within was the pool of Bethesda, famous for healings. Going forward, on the south part, was the tower Meah: and beyond that, "the tower of Hananeel": in the Chaldee paraphrast it is, 'The tower Piccus,' Zechariah 14:10; Piccus, Jeremiah 31:38.--I should suspect that to be, the Hippic tower, were not that placed on the north …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica The Evening Light
This chapter is an article written by the author many years after she had received light on the unity of the church. It will acquaint the reader with what is meant by the expression "evening light." "At evening time it shall be light." "And it shall come to pass in that day, that the light shall not be clear, nor dark: but it shall be one day which shall be known to the Lord, not day, nor night: but it shall come to pass, that at evening time it shall be light" (Zechariah 14:6,7). The expression …
Mary Cole—Trials and Triumphs of Faith Three Inscriptions with one Meaning
'Thou shalt make a plate of pure gold, and grave upon it ... HOLINESS TO THE LORD.'--EXODUS xxviii. 36. 'In that day there shall be upon the bells of the horses, HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD.'--ZECH. xiv. 20. 'His name shall be in their foreheads.'--REV. xxii. 4. You will have perceived my purpose in putting these three widely separated texts together. They all speak of inscriptions, and they are all obviously connected with each other. The first of them comes from the ancient times of the institution …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The River of Egypt, Rhinocorura. The Lake of Sirbon.
Pliny writes, "From Pelusium are the intrenchments of Chabrias: mount Casius: the temple of Jupiter Casius: the tomb of Pompey the Great: Ostracine: Arabia is bounded sixty-five miles from Pelusium: soon after begins Idumea and Palestine from the rising up of the Sirbon lake." Either my eyes deceive me, while I read these things,--or mount Casius lies nearer Pelusium, than the lake of Sirbon. The maps have ill placed the Sirbon between mount Casius and Pelusium. Sirbon implies burning; the name of …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica The Prophet Amos.
GENERAL PRELIMINARY REMARKS. It will not be necessary to extend our preliminary remarks on the prophet Amos, since on the main point--viz., the circumstances under which he appeared as a prophet--the introduction to the prophecies of Hosea may be regarded as having been written for those of Amos also. For, according to the inscription, they belong to the same period at which Hosea's prophetic ministry began, viz., the latter part of the reign of Jeroboam II., and after Uzziah had ascended the …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament In the Temple at the Feast of Tabernacles.
(October, a.d. 29.) ^D John VII. 11-52. ^d 11 The Jews therefore sought him at the feast, and said, Where is he? [It was now eighteen months since Jesus had visited Jerusalem, at which time he had healed the impotent man at Bethesda. His fame and prolonged obscurity made his enemies anxious for him to again expose himself in their midst. John here used the word "Jews" as a designation for the Jerusalemites, who, as enemies of Christ, were to be distinguished from the multitudes who were in doubt …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel The Evening of the Third Day in Passion-Week - on the Mount of Olives: Discoures to the Disciples Concerning the Last Things.
THE last and most solemn denunciation of Jerusalem had been uttered, the last and most terrible prediction of judgment upon the Temple spoken, and Jesus was suiting the action to the word. It was as if He had cast the dust of His Shoes against the House' that was to be left desolate.' And so He quitted for ever the Temple and them that held office in it. They had left the Sanctuary and the City, had crossed black Kidron, and were slowly climbing the Mount of Olives. A sudden turn in the road, and …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah A vision of the King.
ONE of the most blessed occupations for the believer is the prayerful searching of God's holy Word to discover there new glories and fresh beauties of Him, who is altogether lovely. Shall we ever find out all which the written Word reveals of Himself and His worthiness? This wonderful theme can never be exhausted. The heart which is devoted to Him and longs through the presence and indwelling of the Holy Spirit to be closer to the Lord, to hear and know more of Himself, will always find something …
Arno Gaebelein—The Lord of Glory The Promise to the Patriarchs.
A great epoch is, in Genesis, ushered in with the history of the time of the Patriarchs. Luther says: "This is the third period in which Holy Scripture begins the history of the Church with a new family." In a befitting manner, the representation is opened in Gen. xii. 1-3 by an account of the first revelation of God, given to Abraham at Haran, in which the way is opened up for all that follows, and in which the dispensations of God are brought before us in a rapid survey. Abraham is to forsake …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament The Prophet Joel.
PRELIMINARY REMARKS. The position which has been assigned to Joel in the collection of the Minor Prophets, furnishes an external argument for the determination of the time at which Joel wrote. There cannot be any doubt that the Collectors were guided by a consideration of the chronology. The circumstance, that they placed the prophecies of Joel just between the two prophets who, according to the inscriptions and contents of their prophecies, belonged to the time of Jeroboam and Uzziah, is …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament Zechariah
CHAPTERS I-VIII Two months after Haggai had delivered his first address to the people in 520 B.C., and a little over a month after the building of the temple had begun (Hag. i. 15), Zechariah appeared with another message of encouragement. How much it was needed we see from the popular despondency reflected in Hag. ii. 3, Jerusalem is still disconsolate (Zech. i. 17), there has been fasting and mourning, vii. 5, the city is without walls, ii. 5, the population scanty, ii. 4, and most of the people …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Zechariah 14:2 NIVZechariah 14:2 NLTZechariah 14:2 ESVZechariah 14:2 NASBZechariah 14:2 KJV
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