Zechariah 14:20

On that day, HOLY TO THE LORD will be inscribed on the bells of the horses, and the cooking pots in the house of the LORD will be like the sprinkling bowls before the altar.

Study Bible

On that day
This phrase refers to a future time of divine intervention and fulfillment of God's promises. In the prophetic literature, "that day" often signifies the Day of the Lord, a time when God will decisively act in history to bring about His purposes. The Hebrew term "yom" (day) is used here, emphasizing a specific, appointed time in God's redemptive plan. This phrase sets the stage for a transformative event where God's holiness permeates all aspects of life.

'HOLY TO THE LORD'
This inscription, originally found on the high priest's turban (Exodus 28:36), signifies complete dedication and consecration to God. The Hebrew word "qodesh" (holy) denotes something set apart for divine purposes. The extension of this holiness to everyday objects like horse bells symbolizes the sanctification of all creation. It reflects a future reality where God's presence and holiness are universally acknowledged and revered.

will be inscribed
The act of inscribing indicates permanence and intentionality. In ancient times, inscriptions were used to convey ownership, dedication, or significant messages. The Hebrew root "katab" means to write or engrave, suggesting that this holiness is not superficial but deeply embedded in the fabric of creation. It signifies a transformation where God's holiness is visibly marked on all things.

on the bells of the horses
Horses, often associated with war and power, here become symbols of peace and holiness. The bells, typically used for decoration or to signal movement, now bear the mark of divine consecration. This imagery suggests a reversal of worldly values, where even instruments of war are repurposed for God's glory. It highlights the comprehensive nature of God's redemptive work, affecting all aspects of life.

and the cooking pots in the house of the LORD
Cooking pots, representing ordinary, everyday items, are elevated to the status of sacred objects. The Hebrew word "siyr" (pot) emphasizes the commonality of these items. This transformation signifies that in God's kingdom, there is no division between sacred and secular. All things, even the most mundane, are infused with divine purpose and holiness.

will be like the sacred bowls in front of the altar
Sacred bowls, used in temple rituals, symbolize purity and service to God. The Hebrew term "mizraq" (bowl) refers to vessels used for sprinkling blood or wine in sacrificial ceremonies. By equating cooking pots with these sacred bowls, the text underscores the idea that all aspects of life are to be lived in worship and service to God. It points to a future where God's presence sanctifies every detail of existence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet in the Old Testament who conveyed God's messages to the people of Israel, particularly concerning the future restoration and the coming of the Messiah.

2. Jerusalem
The central place of worship and the city where significant eschatological events are prophesied to occur in Zechariah 14.

3. The Day of the Lord
A future time of divine intervention, judgment, and restoration, often associated with the end times in biblical prophecy.

4. Horses
In this context, they symbolize everyday life and activities, which will be consecrated to God.

5. Cooking Pots
Represent ordinary items that will be made holy, signifying the sanctification of all aspects of life.

Teaching Points

Universal Holiness
The inscription "HOLY TO THE LORD" on everyday items like horse bells and cooking pots signifies that in God's kingdom, all aspects of life will be sanctified and dedicated to Him. This challenges believers to consider how they can consecrate their daily activities to God.

The Sacred in the Ordinary
The transformation of common items into sacred objects illustrates that God values every part of our lives. Believers are encouraged to see their daily tasks as opportunities for worship and service to God.

Eschatological Hope
Zechariah 14:20 points to a future time when God's holiness will permeate all creation. This provides hope and motivation for believers to live holy lives now, in anticipation of the coming kingdom.

Integration of Faith and Life
The passage encourages believers to integrate their faith into every aspect of their lives, breaking down the divide between the sacred and the secular.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of "HOLY TO THE LORD" being inscribed on everyday items challenge your current understanding of holiness in your daily life?

2. In what ways can you consecrate your daily activities and possessions to God, as symbolized by the bells of the horses and cooking pots?

3. How does the idea of universal holiness in Zechariah 14:20 relate to the New Testament teachings on living a holy life?

4. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your work, leisure, and relationships reflect the holiness of God?

5. How does the hope of a future where all is holy to the Lord influence your current spiritual practices and priorities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28:36
The phrase "HOLY TO THE LORD" was originally inscribed on the gold plate of the high priest's turban, signifying holiness and dedication to God. This connection highlights the theme of holiness extending beyond the priesthood to all aspects of life.

Isaiah 23:18
This verse speaks of the consecration of wealth and resources to the Lord, similar to the sanctification of everyday items in Zechariah 14:20.

Revelation 21:27
Describes the New Jerusalem where nothing unclean will enter, paralleling the theme of universal holiness and purity.