Joel 2:23

KJV

Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first [month].

KJV (with Strong's)

Be glad {H1523} then, ye children {H1121} of Zion {H6726}, and rejoice {H8055} in the LORD {H3068} your God {H430}: for he hath given {H5414} you the former rain {H4175} moderately {H6666}, and he will cause to come down {H3381} for you the rain {H1653}, the former rain {H4175}, and the latter rain {H4456} in the first {H7223} month.

Complete Jewish Bible

Be glad, people of Tziyon! rejoice in ADONAI your God! For he is giving you the right amount of rain in the fall, he makes the rain come down for you, the fall and spring rains - this is what he does first.

Berean Standard Bible

Be glad, O children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God, for He has given you the autumn rains for your vindication. He sends you showers, both autumn and spring rains, as before.

American Standard Version

Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in Jehovah your God; for he giveth you the former rain in just measure, and he causeth to come down for you the rain, the former rain and the latter rain, in the first month.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joel 2:23 marks a profound turning point in the prophet Joel's message, transitioning from a dire warning of judgment and a call for national repentance to a glorious promise of divine restoration and abundant blessing. Addressing the "children of Zion," the verse assures God's people that their sincere turning to Him will be met with the gracious provision of life-sustaining rains—both the early and latter rains—signifying not only agricultural prosperity but also spiritual renewal and a renewed covenant relationship with their faithful God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joel 2:23 is situated within a larger prophetic oracle that begins with a terrifying description of a devastating locust plague and severe drought, interpreted as a precursor to the terrifying "Day of the LORD" ([Joel 2:1-11](/joel/2-1-11 "Joel 2:1-11 - The Day of the LORD and the Locust Plague")). Following this vivid portrayal of judgment, the prophet issues an impassioned plea for national repentance, urging the people to return to the LORD with all their heart, rending their hearts and not merely their garments ([Joel 2:12-17](/joel/2-12-17 "Joel 2:12-17 - A Call to Repentance")). In response to this call, God declares His fervent jealousy for His land and His compassion for His people, promising to reverse the calamities. Joel 2:23 is the initial declaration of this divine reversal, preceding specific promises of agricultural abundance, the removal of the northern army, and the outpouring of the Spirit ([Joel 2:24-29](/joel/2-24-29 "Joel 2:24-29 - Promises of Restoration and the Spirit's Outpouring")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The immediate historical backdrop for Joel's prophecy is a period of severe agricultural devastation in Judah, likely caused by an unprecedented locust plague and prolonged drought. For an agrarian society like ancient Israel, rain was not merely a convenience but a matter of survival, directly linked to God's blessing or curse as outlined in the Mosaic Covenant ([Deuteronomy 11:13-17](/deuteronomy/11-13-17 "Deuteronomy 11:13-17 - Blessings and Curses of the Covenant")). The "former rain" (Hebrew: _moreh_ or _yoreh_) typically fell in autumn (October-November), preparing the ground for sowing and aiding initial germination. The "latter rain" (Hebrew: _malqosh_) arrived in spring (March-April), crucial for the maturation of grain crops before the harvest season. The absence or unreliability of these rains signified divine displeasure and brought widespread famine, making God's promise to restore them a powerful symbol of His renewed favor and the restoration of national prosperity and well-being.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Joel and the broader prophetic literature. It highlights **Divine Restoration and Provision**, demonstrating God's sovereign power to reverse calamity and provide for His people's physical needs after a period of judgment, a theme echoed in [Joel 2:25](/joel/2-25 "Joel 2:25 - God Restores the Years"). The command to "Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God" underscores the theme of **Joy in the Lord**, emphasizing that true rejoicing is rooted not merely in temporal blessings but in the character and faithfulness of the Giver. Furthermore, the promise of rain, contingent on repentance, reinforces the theme of **Covenant Faithfulness and Repentance**, illustrating God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people and His readiness to bless those who turn back to Him. The specific mention of agricultural cycles also emphasizes **God's Control Over Nature** and His use of natural phenomena as instruments of both judgment and blessing.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Glad (Hebrew, _gîyl'_):** This primitive root means "to spin round (under the influence of any violent emotion), i.e., usually rejoice." It conveys a vibrant, exuberant joy, often associated with dancing or leaping for joy. In Joel 2:23, it's a command for the "children of Zion" to express profound delight and exultation, not just a mild happiness, in response to God's restorative action.
* **Given (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** This verb is highly versatile, meaning "to give," but also "to put, make, appoint, bestow," etc. Here, it signifies God's active, intentional, and sovereign act of bestowing the rain. It emphasizes that this provision is a direct gift from God, not a natural occurrence independent of His will, underscoring His benevolent agency in the restoration.
* **Moderately (Hebrew, _tsᵉdâqâh'_):** This word, _tsᵉdâqâh_, is critically important and often translated as "righteousness," "justice," or "rightness." Its use here as "moderately" (KJV) or "for righteousness" (NIV, ESV) carries a rich theological nuance. It can mean God gives the rain "in righteousness" (i.e., justly, in its proper measure and time, demonstrating His righteous governance), or "for righteousness" (i.e., as a reward for their repentance and newfound righteousness, or to lead them to righteousness). Some ancient interpretations even suggest "a teacher of righteousness" (_moreh tsedakah_), linking the physical rain to spiritual instruction. The primary sense here is that God's provision is perfectly aligned with His just and righteous character, whether as a response to their repentance or as a demonstration of His faithful governance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God:"** This opening imperative shifts the tone from lament to exultation. "Children of Zion" refers to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and, by extension, all of Judah—God's covenant people. The command to "be glad" and "rejoice" is not merely an emotional suggestion but a theological directive, calling them to find their ultimate joy and security in their relationship with "the LORD your God," recognizing His sovereignty and faithfulness even amidst hardship.
* **"for he hath given you the former rain moderately,"** This clause introduces the reason for their rejoicing: God's past and present action. The "former rain" (autumn rain) is crucial for planting. The word "moderately" (Hebrew: _li-tzedaqah_) is pivotal. It can mean "in righteousness" (i.e., in its proper, just measure and time) or "for righteousness" (i.e., as a result of or leading to their repentance and right living). This implies that God's provision is not arbitrary but is an act of His just and faithful character, either as a response to their turning or as a means to bring about their spiritual flourishing.
* **"and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first [month]."** This final clause is a concrete promise of future, abundant provision. The repetition of "the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain" emphasizes the completeness and reliability of God's blessing, ensuring a full agricultural cycle essential for a bountiful harvest. The phrase "in the first [month]" (Hebrew: _ba-rishon_) likely refers to the first month of the Hebrew civil calendar (Tishri, corresponding to September-October), which is the traditional time for the former rain. This specific timing underscores God's precise and timely intervention, restoring the natural order that had been disrupted by the plague and drought.

#### Literary Devices
Joel 2:23 employs several powerful literary devices. The most prominent is **Imperative Mood**, seen in "Be glad" and "rejoice," which functions as a direct command from the prophet, urging the people to a specific, God-centered emotional and spiritual response. This shifts the narrative from descriptive lament to prescriptive joy. **Repetition** is evident in "the former rain... the former rain, and the latter rain," which serves to emphasize the completeness, certainty, and abundance of God's promised provision, ensuring a full agricultural cycle. This also highlights the restoration of the natural order. **Symbolism** is deeply embedded, as the physical "rain" (both former and latter) symbolizes not only agricultural prosperity but also spiritual renewal, divine blessing, and the restoration of God's covenant relationship with His people. The "children of Zion" represent the entire covenant community, making the promise applicable to all who belong to God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joel 2:23 beautifully illustrates God's compassionate response to genuine repentance, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His covenant people. It highlights the principle that while God may use judgment to call His people to account, His ultimate desire is always for their restoration and flourishing. The promise of physical rain, essential for life in an agrarian society, serves as a tangible sign of God's comprehensive provision, extending to both material needs and spiritual well-being. This passage underscores that true joy is found not in the absence of trials, but in the steadfast character and unfailing faithfulness of the LORD, who can reverse even the most dire circumstances.

* [Deuteronomy 11:13-14](/deuteronomy/11-13-14 "Obedience Brings Rain")
* [Hosea 6:3](/hosea/6-3 "Seeking the Lord and His Coming Like Rain")
* [James 5:7](/james/5-7 "Patience of the Farmer")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joel 2:23 offers a timeless message of hope and encouragement for believers facing periods of barrenness, loss, or spiritual drought. Just as God promised to restore the physical rains to Israel after their repentance, He promises to bring spiritual refreshing and renewal to those who turn to Him today. This verse calls us to cultivate a deep-seated joy in the LORD, a joy that transcends our circumstances and is rooted in His unchanging character and His proven faithfulness. It reminds us that our repentance is never in vain; it opens the door for God's gracious intervention and abundant blessings in our lives, both seen and unseen. We are invited to trust in His perfect timing, knowing that He sends His provisions—whether material, emotional, or spiritual—at the precise moment they are needed, ensuring our growth and fruitfulness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the command to "be glad" and "rejoice in the LORD your God" challenge your perspective on joy during difficult times?**
* **In what areas of your life are you currently experiencing a "drought" or a sense of loss, and how might Joel 2:23 encourage you to look to God for restoration?**
* **What does the nuance of "moderately" (or "for righteousness") in this verse teach you about the relationship between God's provision and our spiritual condition?**
* **How can you practically cultivate a deeper trust in God's timing for His blessings and answers to prayer?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "the former rain" and "the latter rain" in this verse?**

Answer: The "former rain" (Hebrew: _moreh_ or _yoreh_) typically fell in autumn (October-November) and was essential for softening the hard, dry ground, allowing for plowing and the sowing of winter crops. The "latter rain" (Hebrew: _malqosh_) came in spring (March-April), providing the necessary moisture for the crops to mature and swell before the harvest. Their reliable provision was absolutely critical for agricultural success and, by extension, for the survival and prosperity of ancient Israel. In Joel 2:23, God's promise to send both in their proper season signifies a complete and perfect restoration of the land's fertility and the people's livelihood, reversing the devastating effects of the locust plague and drought described earlier in [Joel 1](/joel/1 "Joel 1 - The Locust Plague").

**How does "moderately" relate to "righteousness" in the original Hebrew?**

Answer: The King James Version translates the Hebrew word _tsᵉdâqâh_ (H6666) as "moderately." However, _tsᵉdâqâh_ more commonly means "righteousness" or "justice." This presents a rich interpretive possibility. It can imply that God sends the former rain: 1) "in righteousness," meaning in its proper, just measure and time, demonstrating His righteous governance over creation; 2) "for righteousness," meaning as a reward for the people's repentance and renewed righteous living, or as a means to lead them to righteousness; or 3) as a "teacher of righteousness" (if read with the preceding word _moreh_, "former rain," which can also mean "teacher"). The most common understanding is that God's provision is an act of His perfect justice and faithfulness, a righteous response to a repentant people, ensuring that the blessings are precisely what is needed and deserved according to His divine character. This connection between divine provision and righteousness is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, as seen in [Psalm 85:10-11](/psalm/85-10-11 "Psalm 85:10-11 - Righteousness and Peace Meet").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Joel 2:23 primarily speaks of physical restoration and agricultural blessings for Israel, its deeper fulfillment is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate "rain" and "teacher of righteousness" for His people. The physical rains that bring life to the land foreshadow the spiritual outpouring of the Holy Spirit, which Jesus promised and sent after His ascension ([Acts 2:1-4](/acts/2-1-4 "Acts 2:1-4 - The Day of Pentecost")). Just as the former and latter rains were essential for the harvest, Christ's work provides the spiritual nourishment necessary for the growth and fruitfulness of believers, enabling them to bear the "fruit of the Spirit" ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")). The command to "rejoice in the LORD your God" finds its fullest expression in the New Covenant, where believers are called to rejoice in the salvation freely given through Christ's sacrifice, a joy that is not dependent on earthly circumstances but on the eternal hope found in Him ([Philippians 4:4](/philippians/4-4 "Philippians 4:4 - Rejoice in the Lord Always")). Ultimately, Christ is the source of all true spiritual life and the one who brings complete restoration, transforming barren hearts into fertile ground for God's kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

James 5:7

Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.

James 5:8

Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

Philippians 4:4

Rejoice in the Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice.

Leviticus 26:4

Then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit.

Hosea 6:3

Then shall we know, [if] we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter [and] former rain unto the earth.

Deuteronomy 11:14

That I will give [you] the rain of your land in his due season, the first rain and the latter rain, that thou mayest gather in thy corn, and thy wine, and thine oil.

Isaiah 12:2

Behold, God [is] my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH [is] my strength and [my] song; he also is become my salvation.