◄ Zechariah 13 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
An End to Idolatry 1“On that day a fountain will be opened to the house of David and the people of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity. 2And on that day, declares the LORD of Hosts, I will erase the names of the idols from the land, and they will no longer be remembered. I will also remove the prophets and the spirit of impuritya from the land. 3And if anyone still prophesies, his father and mother who bore him will say to him, ‘You shall not remain alive, because you have spoken falsely in the name of the LORD.’ When he prophesies, his father and mother who bore him will pierce him through. 4And on that day every prophet who prophesies will be ashamed of his vision, and he will not put on a hairy cloak in order to deceive. 5He will say, ‘I am not a prophet; I work the land, for I was purchased as a servant in my youth.b’ 6If someone asks him, ‘What are these wounds on your chestc?’ he will answer, ‘These are the wounds I received in the house of my friends.’ The Shepherd Struck, the Sheep Scattered (Matthew 26:31–35; Mark 14:27–31) 7Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd, against the man who is My Companion, declares the LORD of Hosts. Strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered,d and I will turn My hand against the little ones. 8And in all the land, declares the LORD, two-thirds will be cut off and perish, but a third will be left in it. 9This third I will bring through the fire; I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will call on My name, and I will answer them. I will say, ‘They are My people,’ and they will say, ‘The LORD is our God.’” Footnotes: 2 a Or the unclean spirit 5 b Or I am a farmer, for the land has been my livelihood since my youth. 6 c Literally between your hands 7 d Cited in Matthew 26:31 and Mark 14:27 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Zechariah 13 Summary The Shepherd Struck, the Sheep Scattered Verses 1–2 – The Purifying Fountain and Eradication of Idolatry A day is coming when the LORD opens an inexhaustible fountain in Jerusalem. Its water washes away every sin and stain for the royal house of David and every inhabitant. At the same moment the LORD erases even the memory of idols and sweeps away the spirit that once fueled deception. Verses 3–6 – Silencing of False Prophets In that renewed society, counterfeit spokesmen for God cannot survive. Parents will not defend sons who pretend to prophesy; they will insist on justice. Prophets-for-hire will throw away their distinctive hairy cloaks, insist they are only farmers, and try to hide the ritual scars they earned in pagan trances. Deceit is exposed and eliminated. Verses 7–9 – The Struck Shepherd and the Refined Remnant The LORD summons a sword against His own Shepherd—a mysterious Companion uniquely close to Him. When the Shepherd is struck, the flock scatters, and severe judgment falls. Yet one-third survives. These survivors are passed through fire like silver in a crucible; out of the heat they emerge purified, calling on the LORD, and hearing Him call them His people. Zechariah 13, a pivotal chapter in the Book of Zechariah, addresses a future cleansing of sin and the prophecy of the Struck Shepherd. The chapter's prophecy about the end of false prophecy in Jerusalem and the shepherd's striking reflects the future transition of God's people and the coming of Jesus Christ. Historical and Literary Context Zechariah prophesied about 520 B.C., after the Babylonian exile. Chapters 12–14 look far beyond his own day to the coming Messiah and the last days. Chapter 13 continues the deliverance begun in chapter 12 and answers the people’s concern about purity by promising complete cleansing and the end of idolatry. Key Themes • Cleansing from sin by a divinely opened fountain • Removal of idolatry and lying spirits • Exposure and end of false prophecy • The striking of the messianic Shepherd • Purification of a faithful remnant through testing • Renewal of covenant relationship: “They are My people…The LORD is our God” Archaeological and Cultural Notes • Jerusalem’s Gihon Spring, the Pool of Siloam, and numerous ritual baths (mikva’ot) around the Temple Mount illustrate how washing symbolized purity; Zechariah’s “fountain” points to a supernatural source. • Excavations reveal smashed household idols from Josiah’s reform era, showing how zeal for purity once swept the land. • A “hairy cloak” (v. 4) was standard prophetic attire; impostors adopted it to sell their visions. • Self-inflicted “wounds” (v. 6) match practices of Baal worshipers (1 Kings 18:28) and are depicted on Ugaritic reliefs. • Ancient smelting furnaces found in the Jordan Valley illustrate the refining process behind v. 9. Verse-by-Verse Insights 1 “On that day a fountain will be opened…”—“That day” signals God’s decisive intervention; compare Isaiah 55:1 and John 4:14. 2 Idols’ names erased—fulfills Exodus 23:13; see Revelation 21:27. 3 Family loyalty yields to truth—echoes Deuteronomy 13:6-10. 4 Prophets ashamed—2 Kings 1:8; Matthew 7:15. 5 “I am not a prophet”—a hasty cover, the opposite of Amos 7:14. 6 Scars from “friends”—links to pagan cuttings; foreshadows Christ’s wounds (John 20:27). 7 “Strike the Shepherd”—Jesus cites this of Himself (Matthew 26:31). 8 Two-thirds perish—a sober reminder; God preserves a remnant. 9 Refined like silver—Malachi 3:2-3; they become God’s treasured people. Connections to Other Scriptures • Cleansing fountain—Ezekiel 36:25-27; John 19:34; Hebrews 10:22 • Removal of idols—Isaiah 2:18; Zephaniah 2:11 • False prophets judged—Jeremiah 23; 2 Peter 2:1 • Struck Shepherd—Psalm 22; Isaiah 53; John 10:11 • Refined remnant—Isaiah 48:10; 1 Peter 1:7 • Covenant affirmation—Jeremiah 31:33; Revelation 21:3 Prophetic and Messianic Significance 1. The fountain anticipates the atoning blood of Christ, first seen when water and blood flowed from His side (John 19:34). 2. The “companion” Shepherd carries divine status yet is struck by God’s decree, matching Isaiah 53:10. 3. The scattered sheep picture the disciples’ flight; the regathering anticipates Pentecost. 4. The refining of the remnant foreshadows Israel’s future cleansing (Romans 11:26). Instruction for Discernment • Test every message against Scripture (1 John 4:1). • Outward appearances deceive; genuine calling cannot be bought. • Uphold truth even within family; love never covers up lies. • Bring past sins into the light; hidden “wounds” lose power there. Instruction on Refinement Through Trials • Trials are proof of ownership, not abandonment (Hebrews 12:6). • Like silver, character is purified when dross rises—confess it and skim it off. • Call on God; He promises to answer. • Expect deeper intimacy: “The LORD is our God.” Historical Setting Post-exilic Judah was disappointed: a smaller Temple, broken walls, and hostile neighbors. Zechariah lifted their eyes to God’s future, where sin would be washed away and idols forever forgotten. Archaeological Insights • Stepped ritual baths around the Temple Mount confirm widespread concern for purity. • Seal impressions bearing royal names tie into v. 1’s “house of David.” • Bullae bearing names linked to idol officials show how idols’ names could indeed vanish from records. Practical Implications for Today • The cleansing fountain remains open; no sin is beyond its reach. • Spiritual deception thrives on sensationalism; anchor yourself in Scripture. • Suffering often refines faith; expect God to bring good from the heat. • God’s endgame is relational: He wants a people who know Him, and He commits to knowing them. Key takeaway: Zechariah 13 promises a fountain that washes away sin, a Shepherd who bears the blow, and a purified people who truly belong to the LORD. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 1:18 Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. This verse echoes the theme of cleansing and forgiveness. John 10:11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. This connects to the role of the shepherd in Zechariah 13. 1 Peter 1:6-7 These verses discuss the refining of faith through trials, similar to the refining process mentioned in Zechariah 13:9. Teaching Points The Fountain of Cleansing Zechariah 13:1 states, On that day a fountain will be opened to the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity. This verse highlights God's provision for spiritual cleansing and renewal. Eradication of Idolatry and False Prophecy Verses 2-3 describe the removal of idols and false prophets from the land, emphasizing God's desire for purity and truth among His people. The Role of the True Shepherd In verses 7-9, the striking of the shepherd and the scattering of the sheep are mentioned, pointing to the suffering of Christ and the refining process for His followers. Refinement and Restoration Verse 9 speaks of a remnant that will be refined like silver and tested like gold, illustrating the process of purification and the establishment of a faithful community. Practical Applications Seek Spiritual Cleansing Just as the fountain is opened for cleansing, we should seek God's forgiveness and purification in our own lives. Reject False Teachings Be vigilant against false teachings and idolatry, ensuring that our faith is rooted in the truth of God's Word. Embrace Refinement Understand that trials and challenges can be a part of God's refining process, leading us to greater faith and dependence on Him. Live as a Faithful Remnant Strive to be part of the faithful remnant that remains true to God, even in times of testing and difficulty. People 1. The House of David This refers to the royal lineage of King David, representing the leadership and monarchy of Israel. In Zechariah 13:1, it is mentioned in the context of a fountain being opened for cleansing from sin and impurity. 2. The Inhabitants of Jerusalem These are the people living in Jerusalem, the central city of worship and governance in Israel. They are also mentioned in Zechariah 13:1 as recipients of the cleansing fountain. 3. The Prophets In Zechariah 13:2, the prophets are mentioned in the context of false prophecy being removed from the land. The Hebrew term used here is "נביאים" (nevi'im), which can refer to both true and false prophets, but in this context, it is about false prophets. 4. The Unclean Spirit Also in Zechariah 13:2, the unclean spirit is mentioned as something that will be removed from the land. This represents the spiritual impurity and idolatry that had plagued Israel. 5. The Parents of the False Prophet In Zechariah 13:3, the parents of a false prophet are mentioned as those who will hold their son accountable for prophesying falsely, even to the point of death. This reflects the seriousness of false prophecy in the community. 6. The Shepherd In Zechariah 13:7, the shepherd is a figure who is struck, leading to the scattering of the sheep. This is often interpreted as a messianic prophecy, with the shepherd representing Christ, who is struck down, leading to the scattering of His disciples. 7. The Sheep Also in Zechariah 13:7, the sheep represent the followers or people of God who are scattered when the shepherd is struck. This imagery is used to describe the dispersion and trials faced by the followers. Places 1. House of David This refers to the royal lineage of King David, which is significant in biblical prophecy and history. The "house" symbolizes the family or dynasty of David, which holds a central place in Jewish and Christian eschatology. The Hebrew term "בֵּית דָּוִד" (Beit David) is used to denote this lineage. 2. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the capital city of ancient Israel and holds profound religious significance in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In Zechariah 13, it is mentioned in the context of purification and renewal. The Hebrew name "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim) is used, emphasizing its role as a spiritual and political center. Events 1. A Fountain for Cleansing Zechariah 13:1 states, "On that day a fountain will be opened to the house of David and the residents of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity." This event signifies a future time when a source of purification will be made available to cleanse the people from their sins and impurities. The Hebrew word for "fountain" (מָקוֹר, ^maqor^) suggests a continuous and abundant source of cleansing. 2. Idolatry and False Prophets Removed In Zechariah 13:2, it is written, "On that day, declares the LORD of Hosts, I will erase the names of the idols from the land, and they will no longer be remembered. I will also remove the prophets and the spirit of impurity from the land." This event describes the eradication of idolatry and false prophecy, indicating a purification of spiritual practices and beliefs. 3. Shame of False Prophets Zechariah 13:3-4 describes the shame and rejection of false prophets: "And if anyone still prophesies, his father and mother who bore him will say, ‘You must die, because you have spoken falsely in the name of the LORD.’ When he prophesies, his own parents will stab him. On that day every prophet will be ashamed of his vision when he prophesies; he will not put on a hairy cloak in order to deceive." This event highlights the societal rejection and severe consequences for those who falsely claim to speak for God. 4. Renunciation of False Prophecy In Zechariah 13:5-6, it is mentioned, "He will say, ‘I am not a prophet; I am a farmer. The land has been my livelihood since my youth.’ And if someone asks him, ‘What are these wounds on your chest?’ he will answer, ‘These are the wounds I received in the house of my friends.’" This event illustrates the renunciation of false prophecy, with individuals denying their previous claims and returning to humble occupations. 5. The Striking of the Shepherd Zechariah 13:7 states, "Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd, against the man who is My companion," declares the LORD of Hosts. "Strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered, and I will turn My hand against the little ones." This event is often interpreted as a prophecy concerning the Messiah, where the Shepherd (interpreted as Christ) is struck, leading to the scattering of His followers. 6. Refinement of the Remnant In Zechariah 13:8-9, it is prophesied, "In all the land," declares the LORD, "two-thirds will be cut off and perish, but a third will be left in it. This third I will bring through the fire; I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will call on My name, and I will answer them. I will say, ‘They are My people,’ and they will say, ‘The LORD is our God.’" This event describes the purification and refinement of a remnant, who will be tested and ultimately restored in their relationship with God. Lessons from Zechariah 13 1. A Fountain of Cleansing Zechariah 13:1 opens with a promise of a "fountain" that will be opened to cleanse from sin and impurity. This is a powerful reminder of the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice. Just as water purifies, the blood of Jesus washes away our sins, offering us a fresh start. Embrace this cleansing daily, allowing it to renew your spirit and guide your actions. 2. The End of Idolatry In verse 2, God declares that He will remove idols from the land. This is a call to examine our own lives for anything that takes precedence over our relationship with God. Whether it's material possessions, status, or even relationships, nothing should come before our devotion to Him. "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3) is a timeless command that leads to true freedom. 3. False Prophets Exposed Zechariah 13:3 warns against false prophets, emphasizing the importance of discernment. In a world filled with conflicting messages, we must anchor ourselves in Scripture to distinguish truth from deception. "Test all things; hold fast to what is good" (1 Thessalonians 5:21) is a practical approach to navigating today's challenges. 4. The Power of Repentance The chapter highlights the transformative power of repentance. When we turn away from sin and towards God, we experience His grace and forgiveness. Repentance is not a one-time event but a continual process that draws us closer to God and aligns our lives with His will. 5. The Role of the Shepherd Verse 7 speaks of the striking of the Shepherd, a prophecy fulfilled in Jesus Christ. This reminds us of the sacrificial love of our Savior, who laid down His life for His sheep. "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep" (John 10:11). Let this truth inspire you to live a life of service and love. 6. The Refining Process Zechariah 13:9 describes a refining process, likening it to the purification of silver and gold. Trials and challenges are opportunities for growth, shaping us into the people God intends us to be. Embrace these moments, knowing that they are refining your faith and character. 7. A Call to Unity The scattering and gathering of the flock in verse 7 is a call to unity among believers. In a world that often divides, we are called to come together as one body in Christ. "There is one body and one Spirit" (Ephesians 4:4). Unity strengthens our witness and reflects the love of Christ to the world. 8. God's Faithfulness Throughout Zechariah 13, we see God's unwavering faithfulness to His people. Despite their shortcomings, He remains committed to His promises. This is a comforting reminder that God's love and faithfulness are constant, providing a firm foundation for our lives. 9. The Importance of Truth The chapter underscores the importance of truth, both in our words and actions. As followers of Christ, we are called to live with integrity, reflecting His truth in all we do. "Let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'" (Matthew 5:37) is a simple yet profound guideline for living truthfully. 10. Hope for the Future Finally, Zechariah 13 offers hope for the future, pointing to a time when God's kingdom will be fully realized. This hope fuels our faith and motivates us to live with purpose and anticipation. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11). Let this promise inspire you to press on with confidence and joy. Topics 1. Cleansing from Sin and Impurity Zechariah 13:1 speaks of a "fountain" opened for the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to cleanse them from sin and impurity. The Hebrew word for "fountain" (מָקוֹר, ^maqor^) signifies a source or spring, symbolizing a continuous and abundant provision for purification. 2. Idolatry and False Prophets Removed Verses 2-3 describe the removal of idols and false prophets from the land. The Hebrew term for "idols" (עֲצַבִּים, ^atsabbim^) refers to objects of worship that are detestable. The passage emphasizes a future purification where false prophecy will no longer be tolerated, and even parents will reject their own children if they prophesy falsely. 3. Shame of False Prophets In verses 4-6, false prophets will be ashamed of their visions and will no longer wear a prophet's garment to deceive. The Hebrew word for "shame" (בּוּשׁ, ^bosh^) indicates a deep sense of disgrace. The passage highlights the exposure and rejection of deceitful practices. 4. The Shepherd Struck, the Sheep Scattered Verse 7 speaks of the striking of the shepherd and the scattering of the sheep, a prophecy often interpreted as referring to the Messiah. The Hebrew word for "shepherd" (רֹעֶה, ^ro'eh^) is used metaphorically for a leader or guide, and this verse is seen as a messianic prophecy fulfilled in the New Testament. 5. Refinement of the Remnant Verses 8-9 describe a process of refinement for the remnant of the people. The Hebrew word for "refine" (צָרַף, ^tsaraph^) conveys the idea of purifying metal by fire. This imagery is used to depict the purification and testing of God's people, resulting in a faithful remnant who will call on His name and be acknowledged as His people. Themes 1. Cleansing from Sin and Impurity Zechariah 13:1 states, "On that day a fountain will be opened to the house of David and the residents of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity." This theme highlights the promise of purification and forgiveness, symbolized by a fountain, which in the Hebrew context (מָקוֹר, "maqor") signifies a continuous and abundant source of cleansing. 2. Removal of Idolatry and False Prophecy Verses 2-3 emphasize the eradication of idols and false prophets: "I will remove the names of the idols from the land, and they will no longer be remembered... If anyone still prophesies, his own father and mother will say to him, ‘You must die, because you have spoken falsely in the name of the LORD.’" This theme underscores the purging of spiritual corruption and the restoration of true worship. 3. The Wounded Shepherd In verse 7, the text reads, "Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd, against the man who is My companion," declares the LORD of Hosts. "Strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered." This theme prophetically points to the suffering of the Messiah, the "Shepherd," and the subsequent scattering of His followers, reflecting the Hebrew term רֵעִי ("re'i"), meaning "companion" or "associate," indicating a close relationship with God. 4. Refinement and Testing of the Remnant Verses 8-9 describe a process of refinement: "In the whole land," declares the LORD, "two-thirds will be cut off and perish, but a third will be left in it. This third I will bring through the fire; I will refine them like silver and test them like gold." This theme speaks to the purification and strengthening of a faithful remnant through trials, akin to the refining process of precious metals, emphasizing the Hebrew concept of testing (בָּחַן, "bachan"). 5. Restoration of the Covenant Relationship The chapter concludes with a promise of restored relationship: "They will call on My name, and I will answer them. I will say, ‘They are My people,’ and they will say, ‘The LORD is our God.’" (Zechariah 13:9). This theme reflects the renewal of the covenant bond between God and His people, echoing the Hebrew covenantal language of mutual recognition and belonging. Prayer Points Thank God for His Cleansing Power Praise God for the provision of spiritual cleansing through Jesus Christ. Pray for Discernment Ask for wisdom to discern truth from falsehood and to reject any form of idolatry. Seek Strength in Trials Pray for strength and perseverance during times of testing, trusting in God's refining work. Commit to Faithfulness Ask God to help you remain faithful and true to Him, living as part of His remnant people. Answering Tough Questions 1. Zechariah 13:1 – How can a “fountain” literally cleanse sin and impurity, and is there historical or scientific evidence of such an event occurring? 2. Zechariah 13:2 – Where is the historical or archaeological record showing a sudden removal of idol worship and false prophets across the land? 3. Zechariah 13:3 – How reliable is the claim of parents putting their prophesying child to death, and is there any parallel historical account confirming such a practice? 4. Zechariah 13:7 – Who is the “shepherd” in this verse, and why does the text imply that God himself would strike him, which seems contradictory to other passages? 5. Zechariah 13:8–9 – Has any known historical disaster or event clearly matched the prophecy of two-thirds being cut off and one-third preserved, or is this prophecy purely symbolic? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the cleansing stream prophesied in Zechariah 13:1 relate to the concept of repentance and forgiveness in your life? 2. How can we recognize false prophets in today's world? 3. How can the community stand against falsehood in a loving and God-pleasing way? 4. How might the prophecy about the end of false prophecy in Zechariah 13:2-6 be applied to our understanding of truth and lies in modern society? 5. How does the image of parents rebuking their prophet children challenge or reinforce your understanding of accountability in the community of faith? 6. Zechariah 13:7 speaks of a struck shepherd and scattered sheep. How do you relate this prophecy to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ? 7. How can the metaphor of the refining process in Zechariah 13:9 help us understand the purpose of trials in our lives? 8. In what ways can we demonstrate perseverance and faithfulness when facing trials, as illustrated in Zechariah 13:9? 9. How can we seek God's cleansing in our lives today, as outlined in Zechariah 13:1? 10. How does the prophecy of the Struck Shepherd inform your understanding of Jesus Christ's role as the Good Shepherd? 11. How do you understand God's promise to claim the refined third as His people? How does this promise comfort you? 12. How does Zechariah 13 challenge your understanding of God's justice? 13. What does the prophecy of the end of idol worship mean for us in a modern context? 14. How can we resist the temptations of modern-day idols, inspired by the promises of God in Zechariah 13? 15. How does the prophecy of the Struck Shepherd in Zechariah 13 impact your understanding of sacrifice and redemption? 16. Zechariah 13:9 speaks of those who call on God's name. How does this verse inspire you to approach prayer in your own life? 17. How does Zechariah 13:1-2 speak to you about God's desire to cleanse and renew His people? 18. How can the chapter's messages of cleansing, ending deceit, and refining help shape your personal spiritual journey? 19. How can we work towards purifying our own communities of faith, drawing from the prophecy of Zechariah 13? 20. What implications do the prophecies in Zechariah 13 have for our present day living, and how can we incorporate these lessons into our daily walk with God? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions