Zechariah 12:14 (KJV)

What does Zechariah 12:14 mean?

Zechariah 12:14 describes how every remaining family in Jerusalem will mourn separately, with each family and their wives apart from each other. This shows that the grief will be deeply personal and widespread, affecting every household individually.

The prophet Zechariah is speaking to the people of Jerusalem about a future time of great sorrow and repentance. The verse comes at the end of a passage where God describes pouring out a spirit of grace and supplication, leading the people to mourn over what has happened. The emphasis on each family and their wives mourning apart highlights the depth and sincerity of their response, showing that this is not just a public or formal event but a heartfelt reaction from every person.

The Hebrew behind Zechariah 12:14

• "families" (מִשְׁפָּחוֹת, mishpachot): This word refers to extended family groups or clans, not just immediate households. The use here points to the broad reach of the mourning, touching every group within the community.
• "remain" (נָשַׁאַר, nasha'ar): This word means "to be left" or "to remain." It suggests that the families mourning are those who have survived or are left after a significant event, adding a sense of aftermath and survival.
• "wives" (אִשָּׁה, ishah): The mention of wives mourning separately from their families underlines the personal nature of the grief. In the culture of the time, families often mourned together, so this separation stresses the intensity and individuality of the sorrow.

Why Zechariah 12:14 matters

• Zechariah 12:14 clarifies that the mourning is not just a collective ritual but a deeply personal experience for every family and individual, highlighting the sincerity of their repentance.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by showing the fulfillment of God’s promise to move the hearts of the people, leading to genuine sorrow for past wrongs.
• By mentioning those who "remain," the verse hints at a time of crisis or judgment that only some have survived, making the mourning even more poignant and meaningful.