Zechariah 9

Zechariah 9 is a prophecy of judgment and deliverance. It opens with God’s pronouncement against Israel’s neighboring nations who have oppressed His people. Following the judgment of these nations, the chapter shifts to the prophecy of the coming King of Zion, depicted in humility and peace, a Messianic prophecy often associated with Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Finally, the chapter closes with God’s promise to protect and bless His people, affirming His sovereignty and care over Israel.

Zechariah 9:1-2 (NKJV)
1 The burden of the word of the Lord against the land of Hadrach, and Damascus its resting place (for the eyes of men and all the tribes of Israel are on the Lord);
2 Also against Hamath, which borders on it, and against Tyre and Sidon, though they are very wise.

God’s judgment begins with the land of Hadrach and extends to Damascus, Hamath, Tyre, and Sidon. These cities represent powerful neighbors who opposed Israel. Though Tyre and Sidon were known for their wisdom and wealth, their reliance on worldly power could not protect them from divine judgment. This pronouncement demonstrates that no human strength or wisdom can withstand God’s authority.

Zechariah 9:3-4 (NKJV)
3 For Tyre built herself a tower, heaped up silver like the dust, and gold like the mire of the streets.
4 Behold, the Lord will cast her out; He will destroy her power in the sea, and she will be devoured by fire.

Tyre’s immense wealth and fortifications had given her confidence, but God declares that these defenses will be useless. Despite Tyre’s preparations, God will bring down her power, even to the extent of destroying her strongholds at sea. This symbolizes the futility of placing trust in material wealth and worldly might against God’s will.

Zechariah 9:5-7 (NKJV)
5 Ashkelon shall see it and fear; Gaza also shall be very sorrowful; and Ekron, for He dried up her expectation. The king shall perish from Gaza, and Ashkelon shall not be inhabited.
6 A mixed race shall settle in Ashdod, and I will cut off the pride of the Philistines.
7 I will take away the blood from his mouth, and the abominations from between his teeth. But he who remains, even he shall be for our God, and shall be like a leader in Judah, and Ekron like a Jebusite.

The Philistine cities will also experience God’s judgment. Ashkelon, Gaza, Ekron, and Ashdod will face devastation, with rulers perishing and the pride of the Philistines broken. God will cleanse their practices, removing idolatrous customs, and leaving a remnant who will turn to Him. This shows God’s power to transform even those once opposed to Him, integrating them into His people.

Zechariah 9:8 (NKJV)
8 I will camp around My house because of the army, because of him who passes by and him who returns. No more shall an oppressor pass through them, for now I have seen with My eyes.

God assures Israel of His protection, promising to guard His people from passing armies and prevent further oppression. This pledge emphasizes God’s watchful presence over His people and His commitment to their security, underscoring the comfort and peace that comes with divine protection.

Zechariah 9:9 (NKJV)
9 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey.

This verse announces the arrival of a King who embodies humility and peace, riding on a donkey rather than a warhorse. This prophecy was fulfilled through Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, symbolizing a King who brings salvation not through force but through righteousness and peace. It calls for great joy, celebrating the coming of the Savior.

Zechariah 9:10 (NKJV)
10 I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim and the horse from Jerusalem; the battle bow shall be cut off. He shall speak peace to the nations; His dominion shall be “from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth.”

God promises an end to warfare in Israel, symbolized by the removal of chariots, horses, and bows. This King will extend His peaceful reign to all nations, ushering in an era of worldwide peace. This prophecy reveals God’s ultimate intention for His people: a kingdom established in peace and unity.

Zechariah 9:11-12 (NKJV)
11 As for you also, because of the blood of your covenant, I will set your prisoners free from the waterless pit.
12 Return to the stronghold, you prisoners of hope. Even today I declare that I will restore double to you.

God speaks directly to Israel, assuring them of freedom and restoration. The “blood of your covenant” recalls God’s promises, affirming His commitment to His people. By calling them “prisoners of hope,” God invites Israel to trust in His faithfulness, promising not only release from captivity but also abundant blessings.

Zechariah 9:13-15 (NKJV)
13 For I have bent Judah, My bow, fitted the bow with Ephraim, and raised up your sons, O Zion, against your sons, O Greece, and made you like the sword of a mighty man.
14 Then the Lord will be seen over them, and His arrow will go forth like lightning. The Lord God will blow the trumpet, and go with whirlwinds from the south.
15 The Lord of hosts will defend them; they shall devour and subdue with slingstones. They shall drink and roar as if with wine; they shall be filled with blood like basins, like the corners of the altar.

God describes Israel’s victory over her enemies, specifically against Greece, symbolizing a future deliverance. God’s presence will empower His people, and they will be victorious with divine strength. This scene of triumph underscores God’s role as a warrior defending His people, with Israel’s enemies defeated under His might.

Zechariah 9:16-17 (NKJV)
16 The Lord their God will save them in that day, as the flock of His people. For they shall be like the jewels of a crown, lifted like a banner over His land—
17 For how great is its goodness and how great its beauty! Grain shall make the young men thrive, and new wine the young women.

The chapter closes with God’s assurance of salvation, describing Israel as precious jewels in His crown. God’s people will flourish, experiencing prosperity and blessing. The abundance of grain and wine symbolizes a restored land, filled with God’s goodness and beauty, reflecting the ultimate blessing of His presence and favor upon His people.