1 Ask ye of the LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; so the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.
2 For the idols have spoken vanity, and the diviners have seen a lie, and have told false dreams; they comfort in vain: therefore they went their way as a flock, they were troubled, because there was no shepherd.
3 Mine anger was kindled against the shepherds, and I punished the goats: for the LORD of hosts hath visited his flock the house of Judah, and hath made them as his goodly horse in the battle.
4 Out of him came forth the corner, out of him the nail, out of him the battle bow, out of him every oppressor together.
5 And they shall be as mighty men, which tread down their enemies in the mire of the streets in the battle: and they shall fight, because the LORD is with them, and the riders on horses shall be confounded.
6 And I will strengthen the house of Judah, and I will save the house of Joseph, and I will bring them again to place them; for I have mercy upon them: and they shall be as though I had not cast them off: for I am the LORD their God, and will hear them.
7 And they of Ephraim shall be like a mighty man, and their heart shall rejoice as through wine: yea, their children shall see it, and be glad; their heart shall rejoice in the LORD.
8 I will hiss for them, and gather them; for I have redeemed them: and they shall increase as they have increased.
9 And I will sow them among the people: and they shall remember me in far countries; and they shall live with their children, and turn again.
10 I will bring them again also out of the land of Egypt, and gather them out of Assyria; and I will bring them into the land of Gilead and Lebanon; and place shall not be found for them.
11 And he shall pass through the sea with affliction, and shall smite the waves in the sea, and all the deeps of the river shall dry up: and the pride of Assyria shall be brought down, and the sceptre of Egypt shall depart away.
12 And I will strengthen them in the LORD; and they shall walk up and down in his name, saith the LORD.
The tenth chapter of the Book of Zechariah, as found in the King James Version of the Holy Bible, is a prophetic discourse that speaks of the divine redemption and restoration of the people of Israel. The chapter is ripe with divine imagery and metaphors, and its themes revolve around divine providence, the condemnation of false leaders, and the promise of a new, righteous leadership.
The chapter starts with a call to the people of Israel to ask the Lord for rain in the time of the latter rain. This phrase, "the latter rain", has been interpreted in different ways by scholars. Some view it as a reference to the spring rains that are crucial for the growth of crops, symbolizing the providence and sustenance that come from God. Others see it as a metaphor for spiritual blessings or divine favor.
The theme of divine providence is further emphasized in the following verses, where God is depicted as the one who makes the storm clouds, sends down showers of rain, and makes plants sprout on every man's field. This imagery underscores the idea that it is God who provides for the needs of His people, and not the false gods and idols they have turned to in the past.
The chapter also contains a strong condemnation of the false leaders of the people, who are likened to household gods, diviners, and false dreamers. These figures are accused of leading the people astray and causing them to wander like sheep, distressed and without a shepherd. The implication here is that these false leaders have failed in their duty to guide and protect the people, leaving them vulnerable and lost.
In contrast to these false leaders, God is portrayed as the true shepherd of His people. He promises to punish the leaders who have led His people astray and to care for His flock, strengthening them and enabling them to "walk in His name". This is a promise of restoration and redemption, assuring the people that they will be delivered from their distress and brought back to a state of favor and blessing.
The latter part of the chapter speaks of a new and righteous leadership, symbolized by the "cornerstone", the "tent peg", and the "battle bow". These images symbolize strength, stability, and victory, qualities that will characterize the new leadership that God will raise up for His people. This new leadership will come from Judah and Ephraim, the two major tribes of Israel, signifying the reunification of the nation.
The chapter ends with a promise of victory for the people of Israel. They will be like mighty warriors, trampling their enemies in the mud like horses. This is a powerful image of triumph and vindication, signaling the ultimate victory of God's people over their enemies.
In the context of the Book of Zechariah, this chapter serves as a word of hope and encouragement for the people of Israel, who have been living in a state of exile and despair. It assures them that God has not forgotten them and is actively working to bring about their redemption and restoration.
The messages and themes in this chapter hold significant lessons for contemporary readers. The condemnation of false leaders serves as a warning to those in positions of authority, reminding them of their responsibility to guide and protect those under their care. It also serves as a caution to the people, urging them to be discerning in who they choose to follow.
The promise of a new leadership offers hope in times of uncertainty and change. It assures us that even when our current leaders fail us, God is able to raise up new leaders who will guide us with wisdom and righteousness.
The theme of divine providence reminds us of our dependence on God for our needs and sustenance. It teaches us to turn to Him in times of need and to trust in His provision.
Finally, the promise of victory serves as a source of encouragement in times of struggle and conflict. It assures us that with God on our side, victory is assured.
In conclusion, the tenth chapter of the Book of Zechariah is a rich tapestry of prophetic discourse, filled with powerful imagery and profound messages. It speaks of the faithfulness of God in providing for His people, the dangers of false leadership, and the promise of a new, righteous leadership. It offers hope in times of despair, guidance in times of confusion, and assurance of victory in times of conflict. It is a chapter that speaks to us today as much as it did to the people of Israel in the time of Zechariah.
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