Zechariah 7:3

by asking the priests of the house of the LORD of Hosts, as well as the prophets, "Should I weep and fast in the fifth month, as I have done these many years?"

Study Bible

by asking the priests
In the context of Zechariah 7:3, the phrase "by asking the priests" indicates a formal inquiry directed towards those who were considered spiritual authorities in Israel. The priests, as descendants of Aaron, held the responsibility of teaching the Law and guiding the people in religious matters. Historically, the priesthood was central to the spiritual life of Israel, serving as mediators between God and the people. This inquiry reflects a recognition of their role and an acknowledgment of their authority to interpret God's will. The Hebrew root for "priests" is "kohen," which signifies one who serves in a sacred capacity, emphasizing the importance of seeking divine guidance through established religious channels.

who were in the house of the LORD of Hosts
This phrase situates the priests within the "house of the LORD of Hosts," referring to the temple in Jerusalem, which was the center of Jewish worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The title "LORD of Hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth) underscores God's sovereignty and power, portraying Him as the commander of heavenly armies. The temple, as the locus of divine-human interaction, was where significant religious decisions and inquiries were made. This setting highlights the seriousness and sacredness of the inquiry, as it was made in the presence of the Almighty, reinforcing the gravity of seeking God's will.

and the prophets
The inclusion of "the prophets" alongside the priests indicates a comprehensive approach to seeking divine guidance. Prophets in Israel were God's spokespersons, often called to deliver messages of warning, instruction, or encouragement. The Hebrew term for prophet, "navi," implies one who is called or appointed to speak on behalf of God. By consulting both priests and prophets, the inquirers sought a holistic understanding of God's will, recognizing that divine revelation could come through different channels. This reflects a balanced approach to spiritual discernment, valuing both the established religious order and the dynamic voice of prophecy.

Should I mourn and fast in the fifth month
The question "Should I mourn and fast in the fifth month" pertains to a specific religious observance. Historically, the fast in the fifth month commemorated the destruction of the first temple by the Babylonians in 586 BC. Mourning and fasting were expressions of penitence and sorrow, seeking God's favor and restoration. The Hebrew word for "mourn," "abal," conveys deep grief, while "fast," "tsom," indicates abstaining from food as a spiritual discipline. This inquiry reflects a desire to understand whether such practices were still necessary, given the rebuilding of the temple and the return from exile, highlighting the tension between tradition and the new reality of God's unfolding plan.

as I have done for these many years?
The phrase "as I have done for these many years" suggests a long-standing tradition of observing this fast. It reflects the persistence and dedication of the people in maintaining their religious practices despite changing circumstances. The Hebrew word for "years," "shanim," indicates a significant passage of time, underscoring the continuity of this observance. This question reveals a deeper concern about the relevance and necessity of past traditions in light of present developments. It invites reflection on how God's people should respond to new situations while honoring their spiritual heritage, emphasizing the need for discernment and openness to God's ongoing revelation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bethel
A significant location in Israel's history, often associated with worship and spiritual encounters. In this context, representatives from Bethel are seeking guidance from the priests and prophets in Jerusalem.

2. House of the LORD
Refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites, where they sought divine guidance and instruction.

3. Prophets and Priests
Religious leaders in Israel responsible for conveying God's messages and teaching the people. They were approached for guidance on religious practices.

4. Fasting in the Fifth Month
A practice observed by the Israelites, commemorating the destruction of the temple. The inquiry concerns whether this fast should continue now that the temple is being rebuilt.

5. Zechariah
A prophet who conveyed God's messages to the people of Israel, including the response to the inquiry from Bethel.

Teaching Points

True Worship Over Rituals
God desires heartfelt worship and obedience rather than mere ritualistic practices. Our religious observances should reflect genuine devotion and a desire to align with God's will.

Self-Examination in Worship
Believers should regularly examine their motives in worship and religious practices. Are we seeking to honor God, or are we merely fulfilling obligations?

Historical Context and Its Relevance
Understanding the historical context of religious practices can help us discern their relevance today. The Israelites' question about fasting reflects a broader inquiry into the purpose and meaning of their traditions.

Seeking God's Guidance
Like the people of Bethel, we should seek God's guidance in our spiritual practices, ensuring they align with His desires and purposes.

Community and Worship
The inquiry from Bethel highlights the importance of community in worship. Engaging with fellow believers and seeking collective guidance can strengthen our faith and understanding.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the inquiry from Bethel reveal about the people's understanding of religious practices, and how can this inform our approach to worship today?

2. How does the message in Zechariah 7:3 relate to Jesus' teachings on fasting in Matthew 6, and what practical steps can we take to ensure our worship is sincere?

3. In what ways can we apply the lessons from Isaiah 58 to our modern-day religious observances and community service?

4. How can we discern when a religious tradition or practice has become more about ritual than genuine worship, and what actions should we take in response?

5. Reflecting on Jeremiah 7, how can we ensure that our worship and religious practices are aligned with God's desires for justice and righteousness in our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 58
This chapter discusses the true nature of fasting and worship, emphasizing that God desires genuine repentance and justice rather than mere ritualistic observance.

Jeremiah 7
Highlights the importance of sincere worship and obedience to God over empty rituals, similar to the message conveyed in Zechariah 7.

Matthew 6
Jesus teaches about the proper attitude towards fasting, emphasizing sincerity and a focus on God rather than outward appearances.