The burden of the word of the LORD in the land of Hadrach, and Damascus shall be the rest thereof: when the eyes of man, as of all the tribes of Israel, shall be toward the LORD.

ZECHARIAH 9:1KJV
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Zechariah 9:1 (KJV)

What does Zechariah 9:1 mean?

Zechariah 9:1 announces a message from God concerning the land of Hadrach and Damascus, saying that God’s attention will be on these places just as it is on all the tribes of Israel. The verse signals that God is about to act in these regions, and everyone’s eyes—both people in these foreign lands and in Israel—will be turned toward the LORD.

Zechariah, a prophet speaking to the people of Israel after their return from exile, begins a new section here with a “burden” or oracle about surrounding nations. The verse sets the stage for a series of prophecies about God’s coming judgment and involvement, starting with Hadrach and Damascus, cities north of Israel. The focus on “the eyes of man” and “all the tribes of Israel” looking to the LORD suggests a moment when God’s actions will draw the attention of many nations, not just Israel.

The Hebrew behind Zechariah 9:1

  • “burden” (מַשָּׂא, massa’): This word often means a heavy message or oracle, usually one of judgment or warning. Here, it signals that what follows is a serious prophecy, not just information.
  • “word” (דָּבָר, davar): This term means a message or declaration. In this context, it emphasizes that the prophecy is not Zechariah’s own idea but a direct communication from God.
  • “rest” (מְנֻחָה, menuchah): This word can mean a resting place or where something settles. The verse says Damascus will be the “rest” of the prophecy, meaning the message will settle or come to fulfillment there.
  • “eyes” (עַיִן, ayin): The mention of “the eyes of man” and “all the tribes of Israel” being toward the LORD highlights attention, expectation, or dependence—everyone is watching to see what God will do.

Why Zechariah 9:1 matters

  • Zechariah 9:1 makes clear that God’s concern and activity are not limited to Israel; He is also involved with other nations, showing His universal authority.
  • The verse introduces a section where God’s judgment and plans for Israel’s neighbors are revealed, setting up the context for the following prophecies.
  • By mentioning both foreign peoples and Israel looking to the LORD, the verse hints at a time when God’s actions will be so significant that they draw the attention of all people, not just His chosen nation.

Where else these words appear

“rest” Hebrew H4496 · used in 21 verses

  • Genesis 49:15 And he saw that rest was good, and the land that it was pleasant; and bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant unto tribute.
  • 1 Kings 8:56 Blessed be the LORD, that hath given rest unto his people Israel, according to all that he promised: there hath not failed one word of all his good promise, which he promised by the hand of Moses his servant.
  • Isaiah 11:10 And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.

“Damascus” Hebrew H1834 · used in 40 verses

  • Genesis 14:15 And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which is on the left hand of Damascus.
  • 2 Kings 16:10 And king Ahaz went to Damascus to meet Tiglathpileser king of Assyria, and saw an altar that was at Damascus: and king Ahaz sent to Urijah the priest the fashion of the altar, and the pattern of it, according to all the workmanship thereof.
  • Isaiah 17:1 The burden of Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from being a city, and it shall be a ruinous heap.

“burden” Hebrew H4853 · used in 60 verses

  • Exodus 23:5 If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him.
  • 2 Chronicles 17:11 Also some of the Philistines brought Jehoshaphat presents, and tribute silver; and the Arabians brought him flocks, seven thousand and seven hundred rams, and seven thousand and seven hundred he goats.
  • Isaiah 22:25 In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, shall the nail that is fastened in the sure place be removed, and be cut down, and fall; and the burden that was upon it shall be cut off: for the LORD hath spoken it.