The "Vision of the Horses" is a significant prophetic revelation found in the Book of Zechariah, specifically in Zechariah 1:7-17. This vision is the first of a series of eight night visions given to the prophet Zechariah, who ministered to the Jewish people during the post-exilic period, around 520-518 BC. These visions were intended to encourage the Israelites as they worked to rebuild the temple and restore Jerusalem after their return from Babylonian captivity.

Context and Setting

The vision occurs on the twenty-fourth day of the eleventh month, which is the month of Shebat, in the second year of Darius, the Persian king. This places the vision in the year 519 BC. Zechariah, whose name means "Yahweh remembers," is called to deliver messages of hope and restoration to a people who are weary and discouraged by the slow progress of their rebuilding efforts.

Description of the Vision

In the vision, Zechariah sees a man riding a red horse, standing among the myrtle trees in a ravine. Behind him are other horses—red, sorrel, and white. The identity of the man on the red horse is revealed to be the Angel of the LORD, a divine figure often understood to be a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. The myrtle trees, evergreen and aromatic, symbolize peace and prosperity, suggesting a future hope for Israel.

Zechariah 1:10-11 states: "Then the man standing among the myrtle trees explained, 'They are the ones the LORD has sent to patrol the earth.' And the riders answered the Angel of the LORD who stood among the myrtle trees, 'We have patrolled the earth, and behold, all the earth is at rest and tranquil.'"

Interpretation and Significance

The vision's imagery of horses and riders patrolling the earth signifies God's sovereign oversight and control over the nations. The report of the earth being at rest and tranquil, however, contrasts with the situation of the Israelites, who are still struggling and facing opposition. This discrepancy prompts the Angel of the LORD to intercede on behalf of Jerusalem and the cities of Judah.

Zechariah 1:12 records the Angel's intercession: "Then the Angel of the LORD said, 'O LORD of Hosts, how long will You withhold mercy from Jerusalem and the cities of Judah, which You have afflicted these seventy years?'"

God responds with gracious and comforting words, affirming His jealousy for Jerusalem and His anger at the nations that feel secure. He promises to return to Jerusalem with mercy, and His house will be rebuilt. This assurance is a profound encouragement to the Israelites, affirming that God has not forgotten His covenant with them and that He will restore their fortunes.

Theological Themes

The Vision of the Horses underscores several key theological themes:

1. Divine Sovereignty: The vision highlights God's control over the earth and His active involvement in the affairs of nations. Despite appearances, God is working out His purposes for His people.

2. Intercession: The Angel of the LORD's intercession reflects the biblical theme of advocacy, pointing to Christ's role as the ultimate intercessor for His people.

3. Restoration and Hope: The promise of mercy and rebuilding serves as a powerful message of hope, reminding the faithful of God's commitment to His promises and His ability to bring about restoration.

4. Judgment and Mercy: The vision balances the themes of judgment against the nations and mercy towards Israel, illustrating God's justice and compassion.

The Vision of the Horses, therefore, serves as a profound reminder of God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan to restore and bless His people, encouraging them to trust in His promises and continue their work with renewed vigor and hope.