Zephaniah Introduction

The Book of Zephaniah is a prophetic text authored by Zephaniah, who is identified within the first verse as the great-grandson of Hezekiah, possibly linking him to the Judean royal line. Composed during the reign of King Josiah of Judah (640–609 BC), this book focuses on the themes of the Day of the Lord, judgment, and the restoration of Israel. Zephaniah’s prophecies primarily address Judah and Jerusalem, warning of imminent divine judgment and encouraging repentance to avoid the wrath of God. The prophecy also extends to other nations, foretelling their destruction as part of God’s judgment on the whole earth.

Chapter 1
Zephaniah begins with a sweeping declaration of total destruction for Judah and the entire world due to widespread idolatry and disobedience to God. The "Day of the Lord" is introduced as a time of wrath and anguish, where neither man nor beast is spared. The prophet specifically denounces the idolatrous priests and those who mix pagan worship with the worship of Yahweh. He also condemns the complacent elites in Jerusalem, warning that their wealth will not save them on the day of God’s judgment, which will purge the land of sinners.

Chapter 2
This chapter opens with a call for repentance, urging the humble of the land to seek righteousness and humility in hopes of being spared from the calamity. Zephaniah then turns to pronounce judgment on various neighboring nations including Philistia, Moab, Ammon, Cush, and Assyria. Each of these judgments highlights God's sovereign control over all nations and his ability to humble the arrogant. The destruction of Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, is detailed, emphasizing the desolation that awaits it for its pride and cruelty.

Chapter 3
The final chapter of Zephaniah shifts between the themes of judgment and hope. It begins with a fierce indictment of Jerusalem, portrayed as rebellious, defiled, and oppressive. The city’s officials and leaders are particularly criticized for their corruption and lack of trust in the Lord. However, the tone changes as God promises to purify the people, transforming them into a humble and faithful remnant. The prophecy concludes with a joyous vision of restoration where God will rejoice over the redeemed with singing and remove their afflictions, gathering them from all where they have been scattered.