Definition: In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, will I take thee, O Zerubbabel, my servant, the son of Shealtiel, saith the LORD, and will make thee as a signet: for I have chosen thee, saith the LORD of hosts.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Haggai 2:23. It’s a really important part of rebuilding the Temple in Jerusalem! Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: God is specifically choosing you, Zerubbabel (a Jewish leader), to be a special signet – a special marker or mark – for the rebuilding of the Temple. He’s making you a visible example of this process. Let's unpack it word by word: “Haggai 2:23” : This refers to a specific event in the Book of Haggai, which is part of the Jewish scriptures (the Tanakh). It's a prophecy or a section of text that’s being read aloud. “In that day…” : This tells us this is happening at a particular point in time . The "day" refers to a specific date – likely around 587 BC, when the Jewish people were rebuilding the Temple after the Babylonian exile. “Sayeth the LORD of hosts” : This means God is speaking directly to us. “Lord” indicates this is a divine message. “Will I take thee, O Zerubbabel, my servant, the son of Shealtiel…” : This is the core of the verse. It says God is actively choosing you – Zerubabel (a specific Jewish leader) – to be part of this task. “Servant” emphasizes that you're being given a special role. “The son of Shealtiel” refers to a particular family line, which is important in Jewish tradition. “Sayeth the LORD, and will make thee as a signet…” : This is where it gets really significant. God says he will do this. He’s going to make you a mark or marker – a signet – that signifies this task. A signet ring was used in ancient times to mark important documents or individuals. “For I have chosen thee, saith the LORD of hosts.” : This is the final and most powerful part. God declares explicitly that he has chosen you – He’s giving you a special and significant position within this rebuilding project. He's making you a visible symbol of his favor and purpose for this task. In short, Haggai 2:23 is a declaration of God's intent to entrust Zerubbabel with the responsibility of leading the rebuilding of the Temple. It’s a moment of great importance in Jewish history! Why is this important? This verse is a key part of the narrative that led to the completion and restoration of the First Temple. It highlights God's plan for rebuilding and reaffirms his commitment to the people. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific story or event from Jewish history?