1 I lifted up mine eyes again, and looked, and behold a man with a measuring line in his hand.
2 Then said I, Whither goest thou? And he said unto me, To measure Jerusalem, to see what [is] the breadth thereof, and what [is] the length thereof.
3 And, behold, the angel that talked with me went forth, and another angel went out to meet him,
4 And said unto him, Run, speak to this young man, saying, Jerusalem shall be inhabited [as] towns without walls for the multitude of men and cattle therein:
5 For I, saith the LORD, will be unto her a wall of fire round about, and will be the glory in the midst of her.
6 Ho, ho, [come forth], and flee from the land of the north, saith the LORD: for I have spread you abroad as the four winds of the heaven, saith the LORD.
7 Deliver thyself, O Zion, that dwellest [with] the daughter of Babylon.
8 For thus saith the LORD of hosts; After the glory hath he sent me unto the nations which spoiled you: for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye.
9 For, behold, I will shake mine hand upon them, and they shall be a spoil to their servants: and ye shall know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me.
10 Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion: for, lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith the LORD.
11 And many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and shall be my people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto thee.
12 And the LORD shall inherit Judah his portion in the holy land, and shall choose Jerusalem again.
13 Be silent, O all flesh, before the LORD: for he is raised up out of his holy habitation.
Overview of Zechariah Chapter 2
Zechariah Chapter 2 presents a vision of hope and restoration for Jerusalem. The chapter emphasizes God’s protective presence over His people and the promise of a future where Jerusalem will be a thriving, holy city. The chapter is rich in imagery and prophetic significance, reflecting themes of divine intervention, restoration, and the expansion of God’s kingdom.
Key Themes
- Divine Protection: The chapter illustrates God’s commitment to protect Jerusalem and His people.
- Restoration of Jerusalem: It highlights the future glory and expansion of the city.
- God’s Presence: The assurance of God’s presence among His people is a central theme.
- Judgment on Nations: The chapter speaks to the judgment that will come upon those who oppose God’s people.
Structure of the Chapter
- Vision of the Measuring Line (Verses 1-5):
Zechariah sees a man with a measuring line, indicating the future expansion of Jerusalem. An angel explains that Jerusalem will be inhabited without walls due to the multitude of people and livestock, emphasizing the city’s growth and God’s protective presence.
- Call to the Exiles (Verses 6-9):
God calls His people to flee from Babylon and return to Jerusalem. He promises to be a wall of fire around them and the glory within, assuring them of His protection and the judgment that will come upon their oppressors.
- Future Glory of Jerusalem (Verses 10-13):
The chapter concludes with a call for rejoicing as God promises to dwell in the midst of His people. The nations will recognize the holiness of Jerusalem, and God will claim His people as His own, emphasizing the intimate relationship between God and His people.
Detailed Analysis
Vision of the Measuring Line (Verses 1-5)
In this vision, Zechariah sees a man with a measuring line, symbolizing the assessment of Jerusalem’s future. The measuring line indicates that God is planning for a city that will expand beyond its current limitations. The angelic messenger reassures Zechariah that Jerusalem will be a place of safety and abundance, free from walls. This imagery suggests that God’s presence will be the true protection for the city.
Call to the Exiles (Verses 6-9)
God’s call to the exiles emphasizes the importance of returning to their homeland. The phrase “Flee from the land of the north” serves as a directive to those in Babylon, urging them to abandon their captivity and return to the promised land. The promise of God being a “wall of fire” signifies His active protection against enemies, reinforcing the idea that His presence is sufficient for their security. The mention of judgment against the nations that have harmed Israel serves as a reminder of God’s justice and sovereignty.
Future Glory of Jerusalem (Verses 10-13)
The chapter culminates in a call for rejoicing, as God promises to dwell among His people. This divine presence transforms Jerusalem into a holy city, attracting nations that will recognize its significance. The phrase “I will dwell in your midst” emphasizes the restoration of the relationship between God and His people. The call to silence before the Lord signifies reverence and acknowledgment of His authority and holiness.
Conclusion
Zechariah Chapter 2 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s unwavering commitment to His people and the promise of restoration. The imagery of the measuring line, the call to return, and the assurance of God’s presence all contribute to a profound message of hope. This chapter encourages believers to trust in God’s plans for their future and to recognize the importance of His protection and guidance.
