Zechariah 12:3

KJV

And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people: all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it.

KJV (with Strong's)

And in that day {H3117} will I make {H7760} Jerusalem {H3389} a burdensome {H4614} stone {H68} for all people {H5971}: all that burden {H6006} themselves with it shall be cut in pieces {H8295}{H8295}, though all the people {H1471} of the earth {H776} be gathered together {H622} against it.

Complete Jewish Bible

When that day comes, I will make Yerushalayim a heavy stone for all the peoples. All who try to lift it will hurt themselves, and all the earth's nations will be massed against her.

Berean Standard Bible

On that day, when all the nations of the earth gather against her, I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the peoples; all who would heave it away will be severely injured.

American Standard Version

And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all the peoples; all that burden themselves with it shall be sore wounded; and all the nations of the earth shall be gathered together against it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 12:3 prophesies a future "day" when Jerusalem will become an immovable and destructive obstacle to all nations that attempt to conquer or control it. This divine declaration underscores God's unwavering commitment to protect His chosen city and people, promising severe judgment and utter defeat for any global power that dares to challenge His sovereign plan for Jerusalem, even if all the peoples of the earth unite against it.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 12:3 is situated within the latter half of the book of Zechariah (chapters 9-14), often referred to as "Zechariah's Apocalypse" or "the Burdens of the Word of the Lord." This section shifts from earlier themes of temple rebuilding and immediate post-exilic restoration to grander, eschatological prophecies concerning the future of Israel, the coming of the Messiah, and the ultimate destiny of nations. Chapters 12-14 specifically detail a climactic period of conflict and divine intervention centered on Jerusalem. Chapter 12 opens with a declaration of God's power as the creator of the heavens, earth, and spirit of man, setting the stage for His sovereign action. Verse 1 introduces the "burden of the word of the Lord concerning Israel," immediately establishing the divine authority and focus of the prophecy. Verse 2 describes Jerusalem as "a cup of trembling unto all the people round about," foreshadowing the intoxicating and debilitating effect it will have on its adversaries, a theme powerfully amplified in verse 3 with the image of a "burdensome stone." The subsequent verses in chapter 12 continue to detail God's protection of Judah and Jerusalem, promising to make the governors of Judah "like a hearth of fire among the wood" and Jerusalem "a torch of fire in a sheaf," consuming their enemies. This immediate literary context firmly establishes Zechariah 12:3 as a pivotal prophecy of divine protection and judgment in the end times.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Zechariah prophesied to the Jewish community that had returned from Babylonian exile, a people still vulnerable and struggling to rebuild their temple and national identity. Their historical experience included repeated invasions, sieges, and the ultimate destruction of Jerusalem and the temple. Therefore, prophecies of divine protection and the defeat of enemies would have resonated deeply, offering hope for a secure future. The imagery of a "burdensome stone" (Hebrew: *'eben ma'amasah*) likely draws from the ancient practice of stone-lifting, a common test of strength or a method of moving heavy objects. A stone too heavy to lift would cause injury to anyone attempting to move it. This metaphor would have been readily understood by an agrarian society familiar with physical labor and the challenges of moving large stones. Furthermore, the concept of nations gathering for war against a city was a perennial reality in the ancient Near East, making the prophecy of a global coalition against Jerusalem particularly potent and terrifying, yet simultaneously highlighting the miraculous nature of God's promised intervention. The "day" mentioned is not a literal 24-hour period but a prophetic "day of the Lord," signifying a decisive period of divine judgment and salvation, a concept deeply rooted in Old Testament prophecy.
* **Key Themes:** Zechariah 12:3 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book and broader biblical prophecy. Firstly, it powerfully reinforces **Jerusalem's End-Time Centrality**. The city is portrayed as the focal point of a climactic global conflict, underscoring its unique eschatological role as the place where God will manifest His sovereignty and judgment. This theme is echoed in other prophetic texts, such as the gathering of nations in [Joel 3:2](/joel/3-2 "Joel 3:2 - God's Judgment in the Valley of Jehoshaphat") and the depiction of the nations' final assault in [Revelation 20:7-10](/revelation/20-7-10 "Revelation 20:7-10 - The Final Battle and Judgment"). Secondly, the verse highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Protection**. Despite the overwhelming odds—"all the people of the earth be gathered together against it"—God explicitly states, "will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone," asserting His active role in protecting the city. This demonstrates that human efforts, no matter how unified or powerful, are ultimately futile against God's determined will, a truth also found in [Psalm 2:1-4](/psalm/2-1-4 "Psalm 2:1-4 - The Futility of Nations' Rebellion Against God"). Thirdly, the prophecy emphasizes **Inevitable Divine Judgment on Opposing Nations**. The phrase "all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces" conveys a decisive and devastating defeat for those who seek to harm or control God's chosen city. This theme of God's judgment against those who oppose His people and purposes is a consistent thread throughout the Old Testament, from the defeat of Pharaoh in [Exodus 14](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - The Crossing of the Red Sea") to the pronouncements against various nations in the prophetic books.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **day (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** (H3117) From an unused root meaning "to be hot," this word refers to a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (sunrise to sunset, or one sunset to the next) or figurative (a space of time defined by an associated term). In "in that day," it signifies a specific, decisive, and climactic period of divine intervention and judgment, often associated with the "Day of the Lord" in prophetic literature, marking a time when God's purposes are definitively fulfilled.
* **Jerusalem (Hebrew, _Yᵉrûwshâlaim'_):** (H3389) Rarely יְרוּשָׁלַיִם, this is a dual form, likely alluding to its two main hills. Probably from a root meaning "founded peaceful," it refers to Jerushalaim or Jerushalem, the capital city of Palestine. In this context, Jerusalem is not merely a geographical location but represents the spiritual and national heart of Israel, the city chosen by God, around which the final cosmic conflict will revolve.
* **burdensome (Hebrew, _maʻămâçâh'_):** (H4614) Derived from the root עָמַס (*ʻâmaç*), meaning "to load" or "to impose a burden," this word specifically means "burdensomeness." When combined with "stone" (*ʼeben*), it vividly describes an object so heavy that anyone attempting to lift or move it will be severely strained, injured, or even crushed. It metaphorically conveys the idea that Jerusalem will be an impossible, destructive burden for any nation that tries to conquer or control it.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for all people:"** This opening clause sets the stage for a future, divinely orchestrated event. The phrase "in that day" points to a specific eschatological period, a time of God's decisive action. The subject "I" is God Himself, emphasizing His sovereignty and active role. God declares His intention to transform Jerusalem's status from a vulnerable city to an unmovable and dangerous obstacle. The imagery of a "burdensome stone" (Hebrew: *'eben ma'amasah*) is a powerful metaphor: like a massive, immovable rock that crushes anyone attempting to lift it, Jerusalem will become a source of injury and destruction to any nation that seeks to displace or dominate it. This burden is "for all people," indicating a global scope of opposition.
* **"all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces,"** This clause elaborates on the consequence for those who attempt to "burden themselves" with Jerusalem, meaning those who try to lift, move, or control it. The verb "burden themselves" (Hebrew: *ʻâmaç*) echoes the root of "burdensome," reinforcing the idea of a self-inflicted wound. The result is severe: they "shall be cut in pieces" (Hebrew: *sâraṭ*), implying a decisive, complete, and violent destruction or severance. This is not merely defeat but utter devastation, a divine judgment upon those who oppose God's purposes for His city.
* **"though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it."** This final clause highlights the seemingly overwhelming scale of the opposition while simultaneously emphasizing the certainty of God's victory. It posits a scenario where "all the people of the earth," a universal coalition of nations, unite in a concerted effort against Jerusalem. Despite this immense, unified human force, the divine decree remains firm: their efforts will lead to their own destruction. This underscores God's absolute sovereignty over human history and international affairs, demonstrating that no power, however great, can thwart His ultimate plan for Jerusalem.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 12:3 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its prophetic message. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, where Jerusalem is directly equated with "a burdensome stone." This vivid image transforms the city from a physical location into an unyielding, dangerous object that will cause injury and destruction to anyone who attempts to manipulate or remove it. This metaphor effectively communicates the futility and peril of opposing God's plan for Jerusalem. The phrase "in that day" functions as a **Prophetic Marker**, signaling a future, climactic period of divine intervention, a common trope in eschatological literature. The repetition of "all people" and "all the people of the earth" serves as **Hyperbole** and **Emphasis**, underscoring the universal scope of the conflict and the overwhelming, yet ultimately impotent, nature of the global opposition. Finally, the stark contrast between the unified might of "all the people of the earth" and their inevitable fate of being "cut in pieces" creates a powerful sense of **Irony** and highlights God's absolute **Sovereignty** over human affairs.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 12:3 profoundly illustrates God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with Israel and His ultimate sovereignty over all nations. It presents Jerusalem not just as a city, but as a symbol of God's enduring presence and His chosen people, around whom the final cosmic drama will unfold. The prophecy reveals that any nation or coalition of nations that seeks to harm or control Jerusalem is, in essence, contending with God Himself. This divine protection is not based on Israel's strength, but on God's power and faithfulness to His promises. The "burdensome stone" imagery signifies that God has set a boundary, and those who overstep it will face His severe judgment, demonstrating that God's justice will ultimately prevail over all human rebellion and geopolitical maneuvering. This passage assures believers of God's ultimate triumph and the security of His purposes, even in the face of overwhelming opposition.

* [Isaiah 8:14](/isaiah/8-14 "Isaiah 8:14 - A Stone of Stumbling and a Rock of Offence")
* [Psalm 125:2](/psalm/125-2 "Psalm 125:2 - God's Protection of Jerusalem")
* [Matthew 21:44](/matthew/21-44 "Matthew 21:44 - The Stone That Crushes")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 12:3 offers profound comfort and a sobering warning, inviting deep reflection on God's character and our place in His unfolding plan. For believers, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's absolute sovereignty and His faithfulness to His promises, even when global events seem chaotic or threatening. It encourages us to trust in God's protective hand over His people and His purposes, knowing that no human power or coalition can ultimately thwart His will. When we witness geopolitical tensions surrounding Jerusalem or feel overwhelmed by the forces arrayed against God's kingdom, this prophecy assures us that God remains firmly in control, orchestrating history toward His predetermined end. It calls us to align our hearts and lives with His divine purposes, understanding that true security is found only in Him. For those who may be tempted to oppose God's plans or His chosen people, the verse stands as a stark warning of inevitable divine judgment, urging a posture of humility and repentance rather than resistance. Ultimately, it compels us to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that earthly powers are transient, but God's kingdom is eternal and unshakeable.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Zechariah 12:3 deepen your understanding of God's sovereignty over nations and historical events?**
* **In what ways does the imagery of Jerusalem as a "burdensome stone" challenge or affirm your perspective on divine protection?**
* **What practical implications does this prophecy have for how you pray for or engage with current events related to Israel and the Middle East?**
* **How does this verse encourage you to trust God's faithfulness even when circumstances seem overwhelmingly against His purposes?**

### FAQ

**What is the meaning of "in that day" in Zechariah 12:3?**

Answer: "In that day" (Hebrew: *yôwm*) is a common prophetic phrase in the Old Testament, particularly in eschatological contexts. It does not refer to a literal 24-hour period but rather to a specific, decisive, and climactic period of time when God will intervene directly in human history to fulfill His purposes. It often refers to the "Day of the Lord," a time of divine judgment for the wicked and salvation for God's people. In Zechariah 12:3, it points to a future, divinely appointed time of global conflict centered around Jerusalem, culminating in God's decisive victory and judgment over the nations that oppose His plan. This day is marked by God's direct action, as indicated by the phrase "will I make Jerusalem."

**Why is Jerusalem called a "burdensome stone" in this prophecy?**

Answer: The imagery of Jerusalem as a "burdensome stone" (Hebrew: *'eben ma'amasah*) is a powerful metaphor illustrating the futility and danger of attempting to conquer or control the city. It draws from the ancient practice of stone-lifting, where a stone too heavy to lift would injure or crush anyone attempting to move it. Thus, Jerusalem is portrayed as an immovable object that will cause severe harm, injury, and destruction to any nation or coalition that tries to "burden themselves with it," meaning to assault, occupy, or otherwise dominate it. It signifies that God Himself has made Jerusalem a divine trap and a source of self-destruction for its adversaries, asserting His unwavering protection over His chosen city.

**Does this prophecy refer to a literal future event or is it symbolic?**

Answer: While prophetic language often employs symbolism, the context of Zechariah 12-14 strongly suggests a literal, future event involving a global gathering of nations against Jerusalem, followed by a literal divine intervention and judgment. The specific and vivid imagery, combined with the detailed descriptions of warfare and divine action throughout these chapters, points to a concrete fulfillment in history. Many biblical scholars interpret this as an eschatological event, possibly referring to the final conflict often called Armageddon, where God will decisively defeat all who oppose His kingdom and establish His reign. The prophecy serves as a warning to nations and an assurance to Israel of God's ultimate protection and triumph.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Zechariah 12:3 directly prophesies God's protection of literal Jerusalem against earthly nations, its ultimate fulfillment and deepest theological significance are found in Christ. Jerusalem, in this context, represents God's chosen dwelling place and the center of His redemptive plan. In the New Testament, this focus shifts from a physical city to the spiritual reality of God's people, the Church, and ultimately to the New Jerusalem. Jesus Himself is the ultimate "burdensome stone" and "rock of offense" (cf. [Isaiah 8:14](/isaiah/8-14 "Isaiah 8:14 - A Stone of Stumbling and a Rock of Offence"); [1 Peter 2:6-8](/1_peter/2-6-8 "1 Peter 2:6-8 - Christ, the Living Stone")), against whom all who stumble or oppose Him will be broken. The nations that gather against Jerusalem in Zechariah foreshadow the spiritual forces and worldly systems that oppose Christ and His kingdom. Just as God protects Jerusalem, He ultimately protects His Church, the spiritual Israel, against the gates of hell ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Church Built on the Rock")). The "cutting in pieces" of those who burden themselves with Jerusalem prefigures the final judgment upon all who reject Christ and rebel against His sovereign rule, culminating in the complete triumph of the Lamb of God and the establishment of His eternal kingdom, the New Jerusalem ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")). Thus, Zechariah 12:3 points beyond a geopolitical conflict to the ultimate victory of Christ over all His enemies and the secure establishment of His eternal reign.

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

Matthew 21:44

And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.

Zechariah 14:2

For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city.

Zechariah 14:4

And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which [is] before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, [and there shall be] a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south.

Daniel 2:34

Thou sawest till that a stone was cut out without hands, which smote the image upon his feet [that were] of iron and clay, and brake them to pieces.

Daniel 2:35

Then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold, broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshingfloors; and the wind carried them away, that no place was found for them: and the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth.

Luke 20:18

Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.

Zechariah 13:1

¶ In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.