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Introduction to Zechariah

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of Zechariah

  1. The prophet's call and the appeal for the returning nation of Israel to repent and return to Yahweh (1:1–6)
  2. The eight night visions
    • First vision: Yahweh sends his messengers throughout the whole earth (1:7–17)
    • Second vision: four horns and four craftsmen (1:18–21)
    • Third vision: the measuring line (2:1–13)
    • Fourth vision: the priest in filthy clothes (3:1–10)
    • Fifth vision: the golden lampstand and olive trees (4:1–14)
    • Sixth vision: the flying scroll (5:1–4)
    • Seventh vision: the basket filled with iniquity (5:5–11)
    • Eighth vision: four chariots (6:1–8)
  3. Crown for the high priest (6:9–15)
  4. Questions about fasting (7:1–8:23)
  5. The oracle about Hadrach (of Damascus) and Hamath (of Tyre and Sidon) (9:1–11:17)
  6. The oracle about Israel
    • The final defeat of Israel's enemies (12:1-9)
    • Israel's mourning for having killed God's servant (12:10-14)
    • Israel's purification from sin and the end of false prophets (13:1-6)
    • Final removal of idols from returning Israel (14:1–2)
    • Future vision of Messianic Kingdom (14:3–21)

What is the Book of Zechariah about?

Zechariah wrote to the people of Judah who returned from exile in Babylon. The people of Judah continued to sin as their ancestors had before they went into exile. Zechariah called the people to repent and to obey Yahweh. And he called them to renew the covenant with Yahweh. Zechariah also prophesied about the Messiah (6:12) and Israel's final victory over their enemies. (See: rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant)

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may decide to translate the traditional title “The Book of Zechariah” in a way that is clearer to the readers. They may decide to call it the "The Book About Zechariah" or "The Sayings of Zechariah." (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names)

Who wrote the Book of Zechariah?

The prophet Zechariah wrote this book between 520 B.C. to 480 B.C.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Did Zechariah prophesy before Ezra, Nehemiah, and Haggai?

Zechariah prophesied before the time of Ezra and Nehemiah. He prophesied at the same time as Haggai and continued after Haggai.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What is the meaning of the term "Israel"?

The name "Israel" is used in many different ways in the Bible. There was a man named Jacob. God changed his name to Israel. The descendants of Jacob became a nation also called Israel. Eventually, the nation of Israel split into two kingdoms. The northern kingdom was named Israel. The southern kingdom was named Judah. Zechariah uses the term "Israel" to refer to both the nation of Israel and the northern kingdom of Israel.

What imagery does Zechariah use in reference to the Messiah?

Zechariah presented the Messiah as both a king and a shepherd. Zechariah said that the Messiah would come and deliver his people. However, he would also be pierced (12:10) and struck with the sword (13:7). (See: rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])

What does the phrase "that day" mean?

Zechariah often spoke of the last days by using the phrase "that day" or "in that day." When referencing a future "day," the translator should be aware that it is possible that the author is speaking about the last days. (See: rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday)