Thus saith the LORD of hosts; If it be marvellous in the eyes of the remnant of this people in these days, should it also be marvellous in mine eyes? saith the LORD of hosts.

ZECHARIAH 8:6KJV
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Zechariah 8:6 (KJV)

What does Zechariah 8:6 mean?

Zechariah 8:6 shows God telling the people that even if His promised restoration seems unbelievable or too wonderful to them, it is not too difficult or impossible for Him. God is challenging their doubts and reminding them that what seems "marvellous" to humans is not beyond His power.

In this verse, the LORD of hosts speaks to the "remnant" of the people—those who have returned from exile and are rebuilding Jerusalem. The people find God's promises of renewal and blessing almost too good to be true after years of hardship. God responds by asking if something that seems marvellous (amazing or impossible) to them should also be marvellous in His eyes, highlighting the difference between human limitations and God's unlimited ability.

The Hebrew behind Zechariah 8:6

  • "marvellous" (פָּלָא, pala’): This word means something extraordinary, wonderful, or beyond normal human ability. Here, it stresses that what seems impossible to people is not so for God.
  • "remnant" (שְׁאֵרִית, she’erit): This refers to the small group of Israelites who survived exile and returned to Judah. The use of this word emphasizes that God’s promises are directed to those who remain faithful despite hardship.
  • "hosts" (צָבָא, tsava’): This title for God, often translated "LORD of hosts," points to His command over heavenly armies, underlining His power to accomplish what He promises.

Why Zechariah 8:6 matters

  • Zechariah 8:6 clears up the idea that God’s promises are limited by what people think is possible; it directly addresses doubt and encourages trust in God’s ability.
  • The verse connects to the larger context of Zechariah 8, where God promises a future of peace and prosperity for Jerusalem, showing that these blessings are not just wishful thinking.
  • By highlighting the perspective of the "remnant," the verse reassures those who feel small or powerless that God’s plans do not depend on human strength or numbers.

Where else these words appear

“remnant” Hebrew H7611 · used in 66 verses

  • Genesis 45:7 And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance.
  • Jeremiah 15:9 She that hath borne seven languisheth: she hath given up the ghost; her sun is gone down while it was yet day: she hath been ashamed and confounded: and the residue of them will I deliver to the sword before their enemies, saith the LORD.
  • Ezekiel 9:8 And it came to pass, while they were slaying them, and I was left, that I fell upon my face, and cried, and said, Ah Lord GOD! wilt thou destroy all the residue of Israel in thy pouring out of thy fury upon Jerusalem?

“marvellous” Hebrew H6381 · used in 69 verses

  • Genesis 18:14 Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.
  • Job 5:9 Which doeth great things and unsearchable; marvellous things without number:
  • Psalms 107:8 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!