Definition: Thus saith the LORD of hosts; I was jealous for Zion with great jealousy, and I was jealous for her with great fury.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Zechariah 8:2. It's a really powerful and complex verse, but we can understand it at its core. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God’s intense feelings about Zion – that city in Judah – when he sees the growing wickedness and discontent within it. He feels deeply resentful and angry towards it. Let's unpack it word by word: "Thus saith the LORD of hosts..." - This is a formal, elevated way of saying "God speaks." It emphasizes that this is a serious declaration from God. "...I was jealous for Zion with great jealousy..." – Jealousy means feeling upset or angry because someone else has something you desire. In this case, God feels intensely unhappy and frustrated because he wants the people of Zion to be happy and prosperous. "...and I was jealous for her with great fury." – Fury is a strong word – it suggests an overwhelming rage. He’s angry at the state of Zion, and this anger is intense enough that it feels like a terrible punishment. What does it mean in simpler terms? It's essentially saying God is deeply worried about the moral and spiritual decline of the people in Zion. He sees their growing problems – things like corruption, injustice, and lack of faith – and he’s feeling a deep sadness and anger that this situation will lead to something negative for the whole nation. Important Context (Briefly): This verse is part of a larger prophecy about the future of Israel. It's often interpreted as a warning about the potential for disaster if Zion continues on its current path. It’s a moment where God is actively intervening to protect his people and ensure their well-being. In short, it describes God's deep concern and anger towards Zion when he sees signs of growing problems within the city. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from the same passage? Give you more context about what this verse is referencing in biblical history? Answer any specific questions you have about the meaning of this passage?

Definition: Thus saith the LORD of hosts; [It shall] yet [come to pass], that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 8:20. It’s a really interesting and somewhat symbolic passage about the future. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God will eventually happen something significant – a large influx of people – in a specific area. It's not just about one person coming; it’s about a massive gathering. Let’s unpack the parts: "Thus saith the LORD of hosts…" - This is a very formal and powerful way for God to speak. "Of Hosts" means God is speaking as an authority, like a king or leader. “[It shall] yet [come to pass]…” – This is the crucial part. It's telling us that something will happen , but it’s not something we can predict precisely yet . The word “yet” means "but" or "in fact." So, it's saying that this event will occur, and it will happen. “…that there shall come people…” – This is the core of the verse. It’s about a population growing. What does “people” mean in this context? This isn't just about a small group of people. The verse suggests a significant increase in population, possibly leading to a large urban center or settlement. It could refer to: A religious revival: It might be hinting at a time when the faith of many people is rekindled and grows significantly. Migration: A large number of people moving to a specific area. Growth in a city: Perhaps a major expansion of a city or town. Overall Meaning & Significance: The verse is often interpreted as a message of hope, but also carries a sense of anticipation and potential upheaval. It speaks to a time when God’s plan will unfold in a powerful way, bringing about significant change and growth. It's a reminder that God has a purpose for the future and that events are coming to pass. Important Note: The Bible is full of symbolism, so this verse is open to interpretation. Different people have different ideas about what it means in the context of the Old Testament. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail? (e.g., its connection to other prophecies?) Provide some historical or cultural background related to the verse?

Definition: And the inhabitants of one [city] shall go to another, saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the LORD, and to seek the LORD of hosts: I will go also.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 8:21. It’s a pretty interesting and symbolic passage! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about hope and a call to prayer. It says that God is looking out for a specific group of people and sending them to seek Him. Let’s unpack the parts: “And the inhabitants of one city…” : This refers to a specific city, likely Jerusalem or a significant location in Israel. It’s not just any city; it’s a place of importance. “…shall go to another…” : This suggests a movement or pilgrimage. People are leaving their current location and going to another place for prayer and connection with God. “saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the LORD, and to seek the LORD of hosts: I will go also.” : This is the core of the message. What does it mean? "Speedy to pray…" : It’s not just a casual visit; there's a sense of urgency and a dedicated effort to connect with God. “Seek the LORD of hosts” : This means to turn to God for help, guidance, and strength. It’s about recognizing that God is the ultimate source of everything. “I will go also.” : This is the crucial part! The prophet Zechariah (who wrote this verse) is promising to accompany these people on their journey. He's saying he will be there to support them. Overall Meaning & Context: This verse is often interpreted as a message of hope during times of trouble or hardship. It speaks to the idea that even when things seem bleak, God is actively involved and watching over his people. It’s about recognizing that God is always present and ready to help. Think of it like this: Imagine a group of travelers deciding to take a detour to a place of refuge and prayer. They’re not just passing through; they're making a conscious effort to connect with the divine. Zechariah’s verse is essentially saying, "We will go to seek God, and we will be there for you." Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss its significance in the Bible as a whole? Give you some examples of how this verse might be interpreted today?

Definition: Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 8:22. It's a really important message about God’s plan for the future! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that God is inviting people from all over to come to Him and pray. Let’s unpack it a little further: “Many people…” : This suggests a huge number of people – not just a few or a small group. It speaks to a widespread desire for connection with the Lord. “…and strong nations…” : This is a bit more complex, but it means that God is inviting groups of powerful and influential people – nations, kingdoms, etc. – to come to Him as well. “…to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem…” : This tells us where they’re coming from. It's specifically mentioning Jerusalem, which was a very important city for Jewish people at that time. “Lord of Hosts” is a formal title for God, and calling them to come to Him signifies a deep desire to worship and connect with the divine. “…and to pray before the LORD.” : This is the core action – praying. It means they’re coming to God with their needs, concerns, and desires, and seeking His guidance and blessing. What's the big picture? This verse points to a significant future event: God’s plan for bringing about a time of peace and restoration through the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the gathering of many people to worship Him. It’s a call to come to God, even in times of uncertainty or struggle. In short, it’s a message of hope and invitation – God is inviting everyone to seek His presence and connection. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Connect this verse to a specific theme in the Bible (like peace, redemption, or judgment)?

Definition: Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days [it shall come to pass], that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard [that] God [is] with you.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 8:23. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic passage in the Bible, and it speaks about a significant shift in the future. Here's what it means, explained in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God is actively and decisively choosing to gather a group of people – specifically Jewish people – to join him. It’s not just a casual gathering; it’s a deliberate and purposeful act. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Thus saith the LORD of hosts…” : This is a very formal way of saying “God speaks.” It emphasizes that this is a serious message from God. “…In those days [it shall come to pass]…” : This sets a time frame – it’s talking about future events . It's not something that's happening right now; it’s going to happen later. “Ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him who is a Jew…” : This is the core of the message. “Ten men” refers to a specific group of people – likely a small band of leaders and influential figures. They are actively trying to reach out to Jewish people. The phrase "take hold of the skirt of him who is a Jew" is metaphorical, suggesting they’re reaching out to those who are listening or open to hearing God's word. “saying, We will go with you: for we have heard [that] God [is] with you.” : This is the crucial part. They aren't just observing people; they’re actively seeking to join them and to be associated with God. They are proclaiming that God is present with them, offering support and companionship. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse is often interpreted as a sign of impending great change – perhaps a time when God is actively working to bring about a restoration or a new era. It’s about God choosing to be involved with his people and establishing a connection with them again. It speaks of a turning point where God will move forward in a powerful way. Important Note: The exact details of what this "ten men" are and why they're taking action are not fully clear in the original text. It's a prophetic message, meaning it’s meant to be understood within a specific context and to inspire hope for the future. In short, Verse 8:23 is a powerful declaration that God is actively working to bring about a significant shift in history – a gathering of people who will join him and experience his presence. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Connect it to specific events or biblical stories? Discuss the possible interpretations of this verse?