Zechariah 7:9

"This is what the LORD of Hosts says: 'Administer true justice. Show loving devotion and compassion to one another.

Study Bible

Thus says the LORD of Hosts
This phrase establishes the authority and divine origin of the message. "LORD of Hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth) is a title that emphasizes God's sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies. It underscores His power and the seriousness of the command. Historically, this title reassured Israel of God's protection and might, especially during times of distress or when facing formidable enemies. It reminds believers today of God's ultimate authority and the importance of heeding His words.

Administer true justice
The Hebrew word for "administer" (שָׁפַט, shaphat) implies a call to action, to judge or govern rightly. "True justice" (מִשְׁפָּט אֱמֶת, mishpat emet) goes beyond legal fairness; it encompasses righteousness and integrity. In the historical context, Israel was often admonished for corrupt practices and favoritism. This command calls for a return to God's standards of justice, reflecting His character. For Christians, it is a reminder to uphold truth and fairness in all dealings, reflecting God's justice in a world often marred by inequality.

Show loving devotion
The phrase "loving devotion" translates the Hebrew word "חֶסֶד" (chesed), a rich term that conveys steadfast love, mercy, and kindness. It is a covenantal love, reflecting God's unwavering commitment to His people. In the biblical narrative, chesed is a defining attribute of God's relationship with Israel, and He calls His people to mirror this love in their interactions. For believers, it is a call to embody God's love, showing kindness and mercy as a testament to His transformative work in their lives.

and compassion
The Hebrew word for "compassion" is "רַחֲמִים" (rachamim), which is derived from the root word for "womb," suggesting a deep, nurturing love. This term conveys empathy and a heartfelt response to the needs of others. In the ancient Near Eastern context, compassion was a vital social value, ensuring community welfare and support. For Christians, it is a call to be moved by the plight of others, to act with empathy and care, reflecting the compassion of Christ who was moved by the suffering of humanity.

to one another
This phrase emphasizes the communal aspect of the command. The Hebrew context often highlights the importance of community and mutual responsibility. In Zechariah's time, the post-exilic community was rebuilding not just the temple but their societal structures. This command underscores the necessity of fostering a community characterized by justice, love, and compassion. For the church today, it is a reminder of the call to live in harmony, supporting and uplifting one another as a reflection of the body of Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet who ministered to the Jewish people after their return from Babylonian exile. His messages often focused on spiritual renewal and the coming of the Messiah.

2. The LORD of Hosts
A title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies, underscoring His power and authority.

3. The Jewish Exiles
The audience of Zechariah's prophecy, who had returned to Jerusalem and were in the process of rebuilding the temple and their community.

4. Jerusalem
The central place of worship and the city where the Jewish exiles were rebuilding their lives and religious practices.

5. The Fast of the Fifth Month
An event mentioned earlier in Zechariah 7, where the people questioned whether they should continue fasting as they did during the exile.

Teaching Points

True Justice
The Hebrew word for "justice" (mishpat) implies fairness and righteousness. Believers are called to uphold justice in their communities, ensuring that their actions reflect God's standards.

Loving Devotion
The term "loving devotion" (chesed) refers to steadfast love and kindness. Christians are encouraged to demonstrate this love in their relationships, mirroring God's covenantal love.

Compassionate Living
Compassion (rachamim) involves empathy and care for others. Followers of Christ should cultivate a heart of compassion, actively seeking to alleviate the suffering of those around them.

Community Responsibility
The call to justice and compassion is not just individual but communal. Churches and Christian communities should work together to create environments where these values are lived out.

Reflecting God's Character
By practicing justice, loving devotion, and compassion, believers reflect the character of God to the world, serving as His ambassadors.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of the Jewish exiles returning to Jerusalem influence the message of Zechariah 7:9?

2. In what ways can we "administer true justice" in our daily lives and communities today?

3. How do the concepts of loving devotion and compassion challenge our current relationships and interactions with others?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure our church community embodies the principles of justice and compassion?

5. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament reinforce the message of Zechariah 7:9, and how can we apply these teachings in our modern context?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Micah 6:8
This verse echoes the call for justice, mercy, and humility before God, similar to the message in Zechariah 7:9.

Isaiah 1:17
This passage also emphasizes the importance of seeking justice and defending the oppressed, aligning with the themes of compassion and justice in Zechariah.

Matthew 23:23
Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness, which are the weightier matters of the law, resonating with the call in Zechariah 7:9.