Zechariah 1:16

KJV

Therefore thus saith the LORD; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies: my house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068}; I am returned {H7725} to Jerusalem {H3389} with mercies {H7356}: my house {H1004} shall be built {H1129} in it, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}, and a line {H6957}{H6961} shall be stretched forth {H5186} upon Jerusalem {H3389}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore ADONAI says, 'I will return to Yerushalayim with merciful deeds. My house will be rebuilt there,' says ADONAI-Tzva'ot; 'yes, a measuring line will be stretched out over Yerushalayim.'

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore this is what the LORD says: ‘I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, and there My house will be rebuilt, declares the LORD of Hosts, and a measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem.’

American Standard Version

Therefore thus saith Jehovah: I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies; my house shall be built in it, saith Jehovah of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth over Jerusalem.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 1:16 is a profound declaration of God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people following their return from Babylonian exile. It reveals the Lord's compassionate initiative to re-establish His presence in Jerusalem, promising not only the guaranteed rebuilding of His sacred Temple but also the comprehensive restoration and flourishing expansion of the city itself, signaling a new era of divine favor and prosperity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a pivotal divine oracle, delivered by the angel of the Lord to the prophet Zechariah, and subsequently to the returned exiles. It follows the first of Zechariah's eight nocturnal visions ([Zechariah 1:7-15](/zechariah/1-7-15 "Zechariah's First Vision: The Horsemen")), where the horsemen report that "all the earth sits undisturbed" while Jerusalem and the cities of Judah remain desolate. The angel of the Lord intercedes on Jerusalem's behalf, prompting the Lord's passionate and merciful response in verse 16. This declaration directly addresses the despair and inactivity of the people, providing a foundational promise of divine intervention and restoration that undergirds the subsequent visions and prophetic messages aimed at encouraging the Temple's rebuilding. It marks a decisive shift from lament to a declaration of God's active, benevolent presence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Zechariah prophesied around 520 BC, during the early post-exilic period. A remnant of Jews had returned to Jerusalem from Babylonian captivity, initiated by Cyrus's decree in 538 BC. Under the leadership of Zerubbabel (governor) and Joshua (high priest), they had laid the Temple's foundation but faced significant opposition from surrounding peoples (as detailed in [Ezra 4:1-5](/ezra/4-1-5 "Ezra 4:1-5 - Opposition to Rebuilding")) and internal discouragement, leading to a nearly sixteen-year halt in construction. The city of Jerusalem itself remained largely in ruins, a stark reminder of divine judgment. The people were struggling economically and spiritually, questioning God's faithfulness. Zechariah, alongside Haggai, was raised up by God to stir the people's faith, remind them of God's covenant promises, and motivate them to complete the Temple, which was central to their identity and worship.
* **Key Themes:** Zechariah 1:16 powerfully articulates several core themes central to the book and the post-exilic prophetic message. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Mercy and Covenant Faithfulness**, as the Lord declares His "return to Jerusalem with mercies," signifying a compassionate turning back to His people after a period of judgment, demonstrating His steadfast love despite their past failures. Secondly, the verse highlights the **Restoration of God's Dwelling Place**, with the explicit promise that "my house shall be built in it." This directly addresses the central task of rebuilding the Temple, emphasizing its divine guarantee and its role as the spiritual heart of the nation. This theme is echoed throughout the book, particularly in [Zechariah 4:9](/zechariah/4-9 "Zechariah 4:9 - Zerubbabel Will Finish the Temple"). Thirdly, it speaks to the **Comprehensive Restoration and Expansion of Jerusalem**, indicated by the "line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem." This imagery promises not merely a rebuilding of the desolate city but its future growth, prosperity, and repopulation, a vision of urban renewal and divine blessing that anticipates the glorious future of God's people, as also seen in [Zechariah 2:4-5](/zechariah/2-4-5 "Zechariah 2:4-5 - Jerusalem Without Walls").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **returned (Hebrew, _shûwb'_):** (H7725) This primitive root signifies "to turn back," "to return," or "to turn away." In this context, it denotes God's active turning back to Jerusalem and His people. It implies a reversal of His previous turning away in judgment due to their sin, now replaced by a compassionate and restorative posture. It highlights God's initiative in reconciliation and the fulfillment of His promises.
* **mercies (Hebrew, _racham'_):** (H7356) Derived from a word meaning "womb," this term in the plural often refers to deep compassion, tender love, or pity. It conveys a profound, visceral, and unmerited kindness. God's return is not in anger or judgment, but overflowing with this tender, compassionate love, which is the basis for His restorative actions. It emphasizes the gracious nature of God's intervention.
* **line (Hebrew, _qav'_):** (H6957) This word refers to a cord or measuring line. While it can sometimes denote a line of judgment or destruction (as in [2 Kings 21:13](/2_kings/21-13 "2 Kings 21:13 - The Line of Samaria")), in this context, it unequivocally signifies a measuring line for construction, planning, and expansion. It promises that Jerusalem will be rebuilt methodically and extensively, implying growth, order, and prosperity, rather than further demolition or desolation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore thus saith the LORD;":** This opening phrase functions as a formal prophetic declaration, asserting the divine origin and absolute authority of the message that follows. It underscores that the subsequent promises are not human aspirations but the certain decree of the sovereign God.
* **"I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies:":** This clause reveals God's personal and compassionate initiative. After a period where His presence seemed withdrawn due to Israel's sin and exile, the Lord declares His active and benevolent return to His chosen city. The phrase "with mercies" emphasizes that this return is motivated by His profound, unmerited compassion, not by any merit of the people, setting the tone for restoration rather than continued judgment.
* **"my house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts,":** Here, the Lord explicitly promises the rebuilding of the Temple ("my house") within Jerusalem. This is a direct answer to the people's core task and struggle. The added title "LORD of hosts" (Hebrew: _Yahweh Sabaoth_) powerfully reinforces the certainty of this promise, highlighting God's omnipotence and His sovereign control over all heavenly and earthly forces, ensuring that His plan for the Temple's completion will not be thwarted.
* **"and a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem.":** This final clause uses vivid imagery to promise the full restoration and expansion of Jerusalem. The "line" is a measuring tool, indicating that the city will be carefully planned, rebuilt, and enlarged. This signifies not just recovery from ruin but a future of growth, prosperity, and renewed habitation, reflecting God's comprehensive plan for the city's future glory and its repopulation.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 1:16 is rich in literary devices that enhance its prophetic impact. The most prominent is **Divine Oracle**, signaled by the authoritative phrase "thus saith the LORD" and reinforced by its repetition "saith the LORD of hosts." This structure emphasizes the absolute truth and certainty of the message, directly from God Himself. **Personification** is evident in God's declaration, "I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies," portraying God as actively moving and expressing emotions (mercies) towards His city. The phrase "a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem" employs powerful **Symbolism** and **Metaphor**. The "line" (Hebrew: _qav_) is a concrete image of a measuring tool, metaphorically representing the meticulous planning and guaranteed execution of Jerusalem's rebuilding and expansion. This imagery contrasts with its potential use for destruction, instead signifying construction and prosperity. The **Repetition** of "saith the LORD" serves as an emphatic affirmation, driving home the divine commitment to the promises made.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 1:16 stands as a powerful testament to God's enduring covenant faithfulness and His proactive nature in bringing about restoration. It reveals that God's mercy is the wellspring of His redemptive activity, initiating a return to His people even when they have strayed. The promise of rebuilding "my house" underscores the centrality of worship and God's dwelling place among His people, signifying renewed fellowship and spiritual vitality. Furthermore, the comprehensive restoration of Jerusalem, symbolized by the measuring line, points to God's holistic concern for the well-being and flourishing of His community, encompassing both spiritual and physical dimensions. This verse assures believers that God's plans, though sometimes delayed or facing opposition, are ultimately unstoppable, rooted in His omnipotence and unwavering love.

* [Isaiah 54:2-3](/isaiah/54-2-3 "Isaiah 54:2-3 - Enlarge Your Tent")
* [Haggai 1:8](/haggai/1-8 "Haggai 1:8 - Build the House of the LORD")
* [Jeremiah 31:38-40](/jeremiah/31-38-40 "Jeremiah 31:38-40 - Jerusalem Rebuilt")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 1:16 offers profound encouragement for believers navigating periods of discouragement, delay, or perceived desolation. It reminds us that even when our spiritual "house" feels broken or our "city" (our lives, communities, or ministries) seems in ruins, God's mercies are ever-present and His commitment to restoration is unwavering. We are called to trust in His divine initiative, knowing that genuine rebuilding and spiritual flourishing originate from His grace, not solely from our own efforts. This verse invites us to participate faithfully in the work He has called us to, even when faced with opposition, holding fast to the promise that the "LORD of hosts" is on our side, guaranteeing the fulfillment of His purposes. It cultivates a hopeful anticipation for God's ongoing work of renewal in our personal lives, in the Church, and ultimately in His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where in your life or community do you need to trust in God's "return with mercies" for restoration?**
* **How does the promise "my house shall be built" encourage you to invest in the spiritual "building" of God's church today?**
* **What "lines" of God's design and expansion do you see being stretched forth in your life, even amidst challenges?**

### FAQ
**What does "I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies" signify for God's relationship with His people?**

Answer: This phrase signifies a profound shift in God's posture towards His covenant people. After a period of judgment and exile due to their disobedience, God declares His compassionate turning back to Jerusalem. It means that His presence, which had seemingly withdrawn, is now actively and benevolently re-engaged. His "mercies" (Hebrew: _racham_) indicate a deep, tender, and unmerited love that motivates His desire to restore, rebuild, and bless, rather than to continue in wrath. It highlights God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, even when His people have failed. This divine initiative of grace is foundational to all subsequent restoration.

**How does the "line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem" relate to the city's future?**

Answer: The "line" (Hebrew: _qav_) in this context is a measuring line used for construction and planning. Therefore, the phrase "a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem" unequivocally promises the systematic and comprehensive rebuilding, expansion, and prosperity of the city. It signifies that Jerusalem will not remain desolate but will be carefully measured out for new construction, indicating growth in population, physical infrastructure, and overall flourishing. This imagery provides a powerful counterpoint to the city's ruined state, assuring the returned exiles of God's intention for Jerusalem's glorious future, echoing similar prophecies of restoration found in [Jeremiah 31:38-40](/jeremiah/31-38-40 "Jeremiah 31:38-40 - Jerusalem Rebuilt").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 1:16 finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The promise of God's "return to Jerusalem with mercies" is perfectly embodied in the incarnation, where God Himself, in the person of Jesus, "tabernacled among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), bringing the fullness of divine grace and truth. Christ is the ultimate expression of God's mercies, offering salvation and reconciliation through His atoning sacrifice ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")). Furthermore, the promise "my house shall be built in it" points beyond the physical Temple in Jerusalem to Christ Himself as the true Temple, the dwelling place of God among humanity ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19-21 "John 2:19-21 - Destroy This Temple")). Through His death and resurrection, Christ initiated the building of a new spiritual house, the Church, composed of believers, which is built upon Him as the cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built on the Apostles and Prophets")). Finally, the stretching forth of a "line upon Jerusalem" for expansion and glory finds its eschatological fulfillment in the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city that descends from God, where God's presence will eternally dwell with His people, and there will be no more sorrow or death ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")). Thus, Zechariah's prophecy, while immediately relevant to the post-exilic community, ultimately anticipates the comprehensive spiritual and eternal restoration brought about by Christ and His 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

Zechariah 8:3

Thus saith the LORD; I am returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy mountain.

Zechariah 2:10

¶ Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion: for, lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith the LORD.

Zechariah 2:11

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.

Ezra 6:14

And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished [it], according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia.

Ezra 6:15

And this house was finished on the third day of the month Adar, which was in the sixth year of the reign of Darius the king.

Ezekiel 37:24

And David my servant [shall be] king over them; and they all shall have one shepherd: they shall also walk in my judgments, and observe my statutes, and do them.

Ezekiel 37:28

And the heathen shall know that I the LORD do sanctify Israel, when my sanctuary shall be in the midst of them for evermore.