Definition: Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they [are] men wondered at: for, behold, I will bring forth my servant the BRANCH.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 3:8. It’s a really important and symbolic passage in the Bible. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God promising to create a special person – a “servant” – who will bring about a great change and blessing for Israel. It’s like planting a seed that will grow into something amazing. Let's unpack it word by word: “Zechariah 3:8” : This is the verse itself, coming from a prophecy given to Zechariah, a high priest in Jerusalem. “Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee:” – This is a formal address, acknowledging those present with him. "Joshua" refers to a specific leader, likely a chief priest. “Thou” is a respectful form of addressing them. “…for they [are] men wondered at:” – This is the key part! The verse uses the word "wondered at." It means that these people are puzzled and amazed by what's about to happen. They’re not understanding it fully yet. “For, behold, I will bring forth my servant the BRANCH.” This is the core of the message. “Behold” – meaning "look!" - is a signal to draw attention. “I will bring forth” means God is going to create something significant. “My servant” refers to a specific person who will be instrumental in bringing about this change. “The Branch” is a powerful metaphor. So, what does it all mean? A Special Servant: The verse describes the creation of a new, important person – the "servant." This isn't just any ordinary person; it’s someone who will be dedicated to serving God and bringing about positive change. A Significant Change: The phrase “brought forth” suggests a significant transformation or event is coming. This wasn't just a simple act; it was something profound. The Message of Hope: The verse speaks of hope for the future. It’s a promise of blessing and restoration, even amidst uncertainty. It implies that God intends to work through this person to restore Israel and bring about a time of peace and prosperity. In short, it's a message of divine intervention, promising a significant transformation and blessing for God’s people. Do you want me to go into more detail about any specific part of the verse, or would you like me to explain its significance in a broader context?