Zechariah 7:4 (KJV)

What does Zechariah 7:4 mean?

Zechariah 7:4 describes a moment when God’s message comes directly to Zechariah, introducing what God wants to say next. This verse sets the stage for God’s response to a question the people had asked about religious fasting.

The setting is that some people from Bethel had come to ask the priests and prophets in Jerusalem whether they should keep mourning and fasting as they had done for years. Zechariah, a prophet, is now addressed by God, who is called “the LORD of hosts.” This title emphasizes God’s authority and power over all heavenly and earthly armies, preparing the reader for a significant message that follows in the next verses.

The Hebrew behind Zechariah 7:4

• word (דָּבָר, davar): This word means “message” or “matter.” Here, it highlights that what Zechariah is about to share is not his own opinion but a direct communication from God.
• LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God, often translated as “the LORD.” Its use reminds the reader that the message comes from Israel’s covenant God.
• hosts (צָבָא, tsava’): This term means “armies” or “hosts.” When paired with “the LORD,” it stresses God’s supreme command over all forces, both spiritual and earthly.
• saying (אָמַר, amar): This word means “to say” or “to speak.” It introduces the content of God’s message, marking a shift from narrative to direct speech.

Why Zechariah 7:4 matters

• Zechariah 7:4 makes it clear that the message which follows is not Zechariah’s own thoughts but a direct word from God, underscoring its authority.
• The use of the title “the LORD of hosts” signals that what is about to be said carries weight and is meant for all of God’s people, not just a select few.
• This verse connects the people’s question about fasting to a broader message from God, showing that their religious practices are about to be examined in light of God’s priorities.