Zechariah 7:10

Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. And do not plot evil in your hearts against one another.'

Study Bible

Do not oppress
The Hebrew root for "oppress" is "עָשַׁק" (ashaq), which conveys the idea of exploiting or taking advantage of someone. In the historical context of ancient Israel, widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor were particularly vulnerable to exploitation due to their lack of social and economic power. This command reflects God's heart for justice and His desire for His people to act with compassion and fairness. It is a call to uphold righteousness and to protect those who cannot protect themselves, aligning with the broader biblical theme of justice and mercy.

the widow
In ancient Israel, widows were often left without financial support or protection, making them susceptible to poverty and injustice. The Hebrew word "אַלְמָנָה" (almanah) signifies a woman who has lost her husband. The Bible frequently emphasizes the need to care for widows, reflecting God's compassion and concern for those who are marginalized. This command underscores the importance of community responsibility and the call to provide for those in need.

or the fatherless
The term "fatherless" comes from the Hebrew "יָתוֹם" (yathom), referring to orphans who lacked parental care and protection. In biblical times, orphans were among the most vulnerable members of society. God's command to care for the fatherless highlights His role as a defender of the defenseless and calls His people to mirror His character by providing support and protection to those without family.

the foreigner
The Hebrew word "גֵּר" (ger) refers to a sojourner or resident alien, someone living in a land not their own. Foreigners often faced discrimination and exclusion, lacking the rights and privileges of native-born citizens. God's instruction to treat foreigners with kindness and justice reflects His inclusive love and the reminder that Israel itself was once a foreigner in Egypt. This command challenges believers to extend hospitality and fairness to all, regardless of their origin.

or the poor
The Hebrew term "עָנִי" (ani) denotes those who are economically disadvantaged. The poor were often subject to exploitation and injustice, lacking the means to defend themselves. God's repeated calls to care for the poor throughout Scripture reveal His deep concern for their well-being and His desire for His people to act with generosity and compassion. This command encourages believers to be mindful of the needs of the less fortunate and to act as stewards of God's provision.

Do not plot evil
The phrase "plot evil" comes from the Hebrew "חָשַׁב רָעָה" (chashab ra'ah), meaning to devise or plan harm. This command addresses the intentions of the heart, emphasizing that true righteousness involves not only outward actions but also inward purity. It calls believers to examine their motives and to cultivate thoughts that align with God's will, promoting peace and goodwill among one another.

in your hearts
The Hebrew word "לֵב" (lev) refers to the heart, which in biblical terms encompasses the mind, will, and emotions. It is the center of one's being and decision-making. This command highlights the importance of internal integrity and the need for a heart aligned with God's values. It serves as a reminder that God sees beyond outward appearances and desires a transformation that begins from within.

against one another
This phrase underscores the communal aspect of God's commands, emphasizing the importance of harmonious relationships within the community. It reflects the biblical principle of loving one's neighbor and living in unity. By instructing His people to avoid plotting evil against each other, God calls for a community characterized by mutual respect, love, and support, reflecting His kingdom values on earth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet in the post-exilic period who received visions and messages from God to encourage the Israelites in rebuilding the temple and renewing their covenant with God.

2. The Israelites
The people of God who had returned from Babylonian exile and were in the process of rebuilding Jerusalem and the temple.

3. Widows, Orphans, Foreigners, and the Poor
Groups specifically mentioned in Zechariah 7:10 as those who should not be oppressed, representing the vulnerable and marginalized in society.

Teaching Points

God's Heart for Justice
God consistently calls His people to act justly and show mercy, reflecting His character.

The Call to Compassion
Believers are called to actively care for and protect those who are vulnerable in society, such as widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor.

Avoiding Oppression
The command to not oppress others is a timeless principle that requires self-examination and societal awareness.

Reflecting God's Love
Our treatment of the marginalized is a reflection of our relationship with God and understanding of His love.

Practical Obedience
True faith is demonstrated through actions that align with God's commands, including social justice and mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Zechariah 7:10 reflect God's consistent message throughout the Bible regarding justice and mercy?

2. In what ways can we identify and support the "widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor" in our own communities today?

3. How does the command in Zechariah 7:10 challenge us to examine our personal and societal attitudes towards the marginalized?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are not oppressing others, intentionally or unintentionally?

5. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament reinforce the message found in Zechariah 7:10?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 22:22-24
This passage emphasizes God's command to protect widows and orphans, showing continuity in God's concern for the vulnerable.

Isaiah 1:17
Calls for justice and defense of the oppressed, aligning with the message in Zechariah 7:10.

James 1:27
Highlights pure religion as caring for orphans and widows, connecting New Testament teachings with the Old Testament command.

Matthew 25:35-40
Jesus' teaching on serving "the least of these" reflects the heart of Zechariah 7:10 in caring for the marginalized.