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Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Zechariah 11:1–3.
In dark and figurative expressions, as is usual in the scripture predictions of things at a great distance, that destruction of Jerusalem and of the Jewish church and nation is here foretold which our Lord Jesus, when the time was at hand, prophesied of very plainly and expressly. We have here, 1. Preparation made for that destruction (Zac 11:1): "Open thy doors, O Lebanon! Thou wouldst not open them to let thy king in - he came to his own and his own received him not; now thou must open them to let thy ruin in. Let the gates of the forest, and all the avenues to it, be thrown open, and let the fire come in and devour its glory." Some by Lebanon here understand the temple, which was built of cedars from Lebanon, and the stones of it white as the snow of Lebanon. It was burnt with fire by the Romans, and its gates were forced open by the fury of the soldiers. To confirm this, they tell a story, that forty years before the destruction of the second temple the gates of it opened of their own accord, upon which prodigy Rabbi Johanan made this remark (as it is found in one of the Jewish authors), "Now I know," said he, "that the destruction of the temple is at hand, according to the prophecy of Zechariah, Open thy doors, O Lebanon! that the fire may devour thy cedars." Others understand it of Jerusalem, or rather of the whole land of Canaan, to which Lebanon was an inlet on the north. All shall lie open to the invader, and the cedars, the mighty and eminent men, shall be devoured, which cannot but alarm those of an inferior rank, Zac 11:2. If the cedars have fallen (if all the mighty are spoiled, and brought to ruin), let the fir-tree howl. How can the slender fir-trees stand if stately cedars fall? If cedars are devoured by fire, it is time for the fir-trees to howl; for no wood is so combustible as that of the fir. And let the oaks of Bashan, that lie exposed to every injury, howl, for the forest of the vintage (or the flourishing vineyard, that used to be guarded with a particular care) has come down, or (as some read it) when the defenced forests, such as Lebanon was, have come down. Note, The falls of the wise and good into sin, and the falls of the rich and great into trouble, are loud alarms to those that are every way their inferiors not to be secure. 2. Lamentation made for the destruction (Zac 11:3): There is a voice of howling. Those who have fallen howl for grief and shame, and those who see their own turn coming howl for fear. But the great men especially receive the alarm with the utmost confusion. Those who were roaring in the day of their revels and triumphs are howling in the day of their terrors; for now they are tormented more than others. Those great men were by office shepherds, and such should have protected God's flock committed to their charge; it is the duty both of princes and priests. But they were as young lions, that made themselves a terror to the flock with their roaring and the flock a prey to themselves with their tearing. Note, It is sad with a people when those who should be as shepherds to them are as young lions to them. But what is the issue? The shepherds howl, for their glory is spoiled. Their pastures, and the flocks which covered them, which were the glory of the swains, are laid waste. The young lions howl, for the pride of Jordan is spoiled. The pride of Jordan was the thickets on the banks, in which the lions reposed themselves; and therefore, when the river overflowed and spoiled them, the lions came up from them (as we read Jer 49:19), and they came up roaring. Note, When those who have power proudly abuse their power, and, instead of being shepherds, are as young lions, they may expect that the righteous God will humble their pride and break their power.
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Summary
Zechariah 11:2 presents a powerful prophetic lament, foretelling widespread devastation and the downfall of prominent, seemingly impregnable figures and institutions. Through vivid imagery of howling trees and a fallen forest, the verse announces a severe divine judgment, signifying the collapse of established powers and the profound sorrow that accompanies the consequences of unfaithfulness and rejection of God's true shepherd.
Context
Literary Context
Zechariah 11 opens a highly symbolic and challenging section (chapters 9-14) often referred to as the "Burden of the Word of the Lord." This chapter specifically initiates a prophetic drama concerning a shepherd and his flock, representing the Lord's relationship with Israel. Verse 1 sets the scene with a call for Lebanon's cedars to be consumed by fire, indicating a coming judgment. Verse 2 continues and intensifies this imagery, extending the lament to other mighty trees, signifying a broader, more devastating impact. The subsequent verses (Zechariah 11:4-17) elaborate on the role of the shepherd, the flock's rejection, and the breaking of the covenants, culminating in the judgment upon the "worthless shepherd," which stands in stark contrast to the good shepherd. This lament serves as a dramatic prelude to the unfolding narrative of Israel's rejection of their true divine leadership.
Historical & Cultural Context
The imagery of trees like cedars, firs, and oaks was deeply significant in the ancient Near East. Cedars of Lebanon were renowned for their strength, majesty, and value, often symbolizing powerful nations, kings, or prominent leaders (e.g., Assyria in Ezekiel 31). Bashan, a fertile region east of the Jordan, was famous for its robust oaks and rich pastures, representing prosperity and strength. The "howling" of these trees is a personification, conveying the deep anguish and lament associated with national catastrophe, similar to the mourning rites for the dead or for a city under siege. This prophecy likely looked forward to a time of immense upheaval for Israel, perhaps finding a historical echo in the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, which followed the nation's rejection of Christ, or even earlier periods of judgment.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Zechariah and the broader prophetic literature. The primary theme is Divine Judgment, where God's righteous wrath is poured out upon unfaithful leadership and a rebellious people. The "howling" and "falling" of the trees underscore the severity and inevitability of this judgment, especially upon those who have rejected the Lord's guidance, as seen in the broader context of the unfaithful shepherds in Zechariah 11. Another crucial theme is the Fall of the Mighty, where symbols of strength, power, and prestige—the "fir tree," "cedar," and "oaks of Bashan"—are shown to be vulnerable and subject to divine overthrow. This highlights God's sovereignty over all earthly powers, even the most formidable. Finally, the imagery conveys Widespread Devastation, emphasizing that the judgment will not be localized but will affect even the most resilient and prominent aspects of the land or society, leading to universal mourning, as implied by the call for all these mighty trees to "howl."
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
A primitive root meaning "to howl (with a wailing tone) or yell (with a boisterous one)." This onomatopoeic word vividly conveys a cry of deep distress, anguish, and lamentation. It is often associated with mourning for the dead or a national calamity, suggesting profound sorrow and despair over destruction.
A cypress (?) tree, hence a lance or a musical instrument (as made of that wood); fir (tree). In this context, it represents a strong, majestic tree, often used in construction and symbolizing strength and endurance, much like the cedar. Its call to "howl" signifies the fall of a significant, resilient entity.
Meaning "wide or (generally) large; figuratively, powerful; excellent, famous, gallant, glorious, goodly, lordly, mighty(-ier one), noble, principal, worthy." This term emphasizes the immense power, prestige, and prominence of those who are being "spoiled," suggesting that even the most formidable figures or institutions are not immune to divine judgment.
A complex phrase. Yaʻar (H3293) means "a copse of bushes; hence, a forest." Bâtsôwr (H1208) is from H1219, meaning "to clip off; specifically to gather grapes; also to be isolated (i.e. inaccessible by height or fortification)." While "vintage" usually refers to grape harvest, here, the underlying root H1219 (bâtsar) suggests "to cut off," "felled," or "inaccessible/fortified." Thus, "forest of the vintage" likely refers to a dense, perhaps fortified, forest that is now "cut down" or "felled" as a result of judgment, rather than a literal grape harvest. It could also imply a "harvest of judgment," where the mighty trees (leaders/nations) are cut down in a destructive manner.
Verse Breakdown
"Howl, fir tree; for the cedar is fallen; because the mighty are spoiled:"
This opening clause sets a tone of deep lament. The "fir tree" (bᵉrôwsh), a symbol of strength, is commanded to "howl" (yâlal), indicating profound sorrow. This mourning is provoked by the "fallen" (nâphal) cedar, the epitome of strength and majesty, which has succumbed. The reason for their fall is that "the mighty" (ʼaddîyr), referring to powerful leaders or nations, "are spoiled" (shâdad), meaning they are ravaged, plundered, or utterly destroyed. This signifies the collapse of the most prominent and powerful elements of society or leadership.
"howl, O ye oaks of Bashan; for the forest of the vintage is come down."
The lament is intensified and broadened with a second command to "howl," now directed at the "oaks of Bashan." Bashan was known for its robust and strong oaks, symbolizing resilience and prosperity. Their call to mourn signifies that the devastation is widespread, affecting even the most enduring and flourishing parts of the land. The reason given is that "the forest of the vintage is come down" (yârad). As discussed in the key word analysis, this phrase likely refers to a once-dense or fortified forest that has been cut down or felled, signifying a complete and devastating judgment upon the entire structure or system represented by these mighty trees.
Literary Devices
Zechariah 11:2 employs several powerful Literary Devices to convey its message of impending judgment and sorrow. Personification is central, as the fir tree and oaks of Bashan are commanded to "howl," attributing human emotions of grief and lament to inanimate objects. This device amplifies the sense of widespread catastrophe, suggesting that even nature itself mourns the destruction. Symbolism is richly present, with the "fir tree," "cedar," and "oaks of Bashan" serving as potent symbols of powerful leaders, nations, or established institutions. Their "fall" and "spoiling" represent the overthrow and destruction of these mighty entities. The "forest of the vintage" is also symbolic, likely representing a once-flourishing or fortified system now brought low by judgment. The repetition of "howl" creates Anaphora and Emphasis, underscoring the depth and breadth of the lament and the severity of the impending doom. The vivid imagery creates a strong Atmosphere of despair and impending judgment, making the prophetic message impactful and memorable.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Zechariah 11:2 serves as a stark prophetic warning that divine judgment is comprehensive and inevitable for those who reject God's covenant and leadership. The fall of the mighty trees symbolizes the overthrow of human pride, corrupt authority, and any earthly power that stands in defiance of God's will. The lament underscores the profound sorrow and desolation that accompany such judgment, reminding humanity that even the most formidable structures and leaders are ultimately subject to the sovereign hand of God. This passage highlights God's justice and His unwavering commitment to hold all, especially those in positions of power, accountable for their stewardship.
Reflection and Application
Zechariah 11:2 is a sobering reminder that earthly power, prestige, and perceived invincibility are fleeting when divorced from divine wisdom and righteousness. For individuals, this verse encourages humility and a critical evaluation of where our trust is placed—in human strength and institutions, or in the enduring sovereignty of God. For leaders, it serves as a powerful caution against pride, corruption, and the misuse of authority, emphasizing that accountability before God is inescapable. The "howling" of the trees should prompt us to consider the lamentable consequences of societal and spiritual decay, urging us to seek righteousness and faithful leadership. Ultimately, it calls us to align our lives and our communities with God's perfect will, recognizing that true security and lasting peace are found only in Him, not in the temporary glories of this world.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What do the "fir tree," "cedar," and "oaks of Bashan" symbolize in this verse?
These trees are powerful symbols of strength, majesty, and prominence in the ancient world. The "cedar" (especially of Lebanon) was renowned for its height, durability, and value, often symbolizing mighty nations, kings, or powerful leaders (e.g., Ezekiel 31:3). The "fir tree" (cypress) also represents strength and resilience. The "oaks of Bashan" were famous for their robust nature and the fertility of the Bashan region, symbolizing prosperity and enduring power. Together, they represent the most formidable and established powers, leaders, or institutions that are now facing divine judgment and destruction.
Does this verse refer to a specific historical event, or is it purely symbolic?
While the imagery is highly symbolic, prophetic passages often have multiple layers of fulfillment. Zechariah 11:2, as part of a prophecy concerning unfaithful shepherds and a rejected flock, likely points to the devastating consequences of Israel's rejection of their true Shepherd (the Messiah). Many scholars see a primary historical fulfillment in the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, which occurred after Israel's widespread rejection of Jesus Christ. However, the principles of judgment on unfaithful leadership and the fall of human power are timeless and can apply to any nation or institution that defies God's will.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Zechariah 11:2, with its stark imagery of fallen mighty trees and widespread lament, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the rejection of Jesus Christ, the true Shepherd of Israel. The "howling" of the fir tree and oaks of Bashan, and the "fall" of the cedar, foreshadow the catastrophic judgment that would befall Jerusalem and its leadership because they "spoiled" (rejected and crucified) the Lord's Anointed. Jesus Himself lamented over Jerusalem, knowing the destruction that awaited it because it "did not recognize the time of its visitation" (Luke 19:41-44). The "mighty" who were "spoiled" can be seen as the corrupt religious and political leaders of Israel who, by rejecting their Messiah, brought about the nation's downfall, culminating in the Roman destruction of A.D. 70. This judgment, though severe, ultimately paved the way for the spread of the gospel to the Gentiles, as God's plan of redemption unfolded. Thus, Zechariah's lament, while speaking of ancient judgment, profoundly points to the consequences of rejecting the very Lamb of God who came to take away the sin of the world (John 1:29). It underscores that true strength and enduring power are found not in earthly structures, but in Christ, the cornerstone whom the builders rejected but who became the chief cornerstone (Matthew 21:42).