Zechariah 14:18

KJV

And if the family of Egypt go not up, and come not, that [have] no [rain]; there shall be the plague, wherewith the LORD will smite the heathen that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles.

KJV (with Strong's)

And if the family {H4940} of Egypt {H4714} go not up {H5927}, and come {H935} not, that have no rain; there shall be the plague {H4046}, wherewith the LORD {H3068} will smite {H5062} the heathen {H1471} that come not up {H5927} to keep {H2287} the feast {H2282} of tabernacles {H5521}.

Complete Jewish Bible

If the family of Egypt doesn't go up, if they refuse to come, they will have no [annual] overflow [from the Nile]; moreover, there will be the plague with which ADONAI will strike the nations that don't go up to keep the festival of Sukkot.

Berean Standard Bible

And if the people of Egypt will not go up and enter in, then the rain will not fall on them; this will be the plague with which the LORD strikes the nations who do not go up to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles.

American Standard Version

And if the family of Egypt go not up, and come not, neither shall it be upon them; there shall be the plague wherewith Jehovah will smite the nations that go not up to keep the feast of tabernacles.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 14:18 is a stark prophetic declaration concerning the eschatological Messianic kingdom, specifically outlining the divine judgment awaiting nations that refuse to acknowledge the Lord's universal reign and participate in His mandated worship. The verse highlights Egypt's unique punishment of drought, contrasting with a general plague for other disobedient nations, all of whom fail to ascend to Jerusalem to observe the Feast of Tabernacles in the post-Messianic era. This passage underscores God's absolute sovereignty and the severe consequences of rebellion against His future global rule.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 14 forms the climactic conclusion of Zechariah's prophecies, often referred to as the "Little Apocalypse." It vividly describes the "Day of the Lord," a pivotal time marked by cosmic upheaval, the Lord's direct intervention in human history, and the establishment of His universal kingdom. Following a final battle against Jerusalem, the Lord will become King over all the earth ([Zechariah 14:9](/zechariah/14-9 "Zechariah 14:9 - The Lord Will Be King Over All the Earth")). Verses 16-19, where Zechariah 14:18 is situated, detail the post-Day of the Lord reality: all surviving nations are commanded to make an annual pilgrimage to Jerusalem to worship the King, the Lord of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles ([Zechariah 14:16](/zechariah/14-16 "Zechariah 14:16 - Nations Worship in Jerusalem")). Zechariah 14:18 specifically addresses the consequences for those who defy this universal mandate, emphasizing that even in the glorious Messianic age, accountability for disobedience remains.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Zechariah prophesied to the post-exilic community, encouraging them in the rebuilding of the temple and the restoration of Jerusalem. The Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) was one of the three major annual pilgrimage festivals in ancient Israel, celebrating God's provision during the wilderness wanderings and the ingathering of the harvest. Its elevation to a universal festival in the Messianic era signifies the ingathering of all nations to worship the true God, reflecting a global expansion of covenant blessings. Egypt, historically Israel's oppressor and a symbol of worldly power and idolatry, is singled out. Their dependence on the annual flooding of the Nile River for agriculture, rather than rainfall, makes the "no rain" judgment particularly pointed and culturally significant, directly targeting their lifeblood and demonstrating God's precise control over their unique environment. This punishment echoes the plagues of Exodus, reinforcing God's ultimate authority over Egypt.

* **Key Themes:** Several profound themes emerge from Zechariah 14:18. Firstly, **Universal Sovereignty and Worship** is paramount; the passage underscores God's absolute authority over all peoples and His expectation of their homage in the future kingdom. This vision expands Israel's covenant relationship with God to encompass all nations, who will eventually come to acknowledge the Lord as King ([Zechariah 14:9](/zechariah/14-9 "Zechariah 14:9 - The Lord Will Be King Over All the Earth")). Secondly, the verse highlights the **Consequences of Disobedience**; even in an era of global peace and divine presence, rebellion against God's commands incurs specific and severe judgment, demonstrating that accountability is eternal. Thirdly, **Divine Control Over Nature** is powerfully illustrated through the specific punishment for Egypt. By withholding rain, God directly impacts Egypt's agricultural lifeblood, a nation historically dependent on the Nile's inundation, not rainfall, thus showcasing His precise and sovereign power over all creation and unique ecosystems. Finally, the **Significance of the Feast of Tabernacles** is elevated. This ancient festival, celebrating God's dwelling among His people and His provision, transforms into a universal act of worship, symbolizing the Lord's permanent presence with humanity and the ingathering of all nations into His kingdom ([Zechariah 14:16](/zechariah/14-16 "Zechariah 14:16 - Feast of Tabernacles for All Nations")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **plague (Hebrew, _maggêphâh'_):** From the root _nâgaph_ (to strike, smite), this word refers to a pestilence or a divine visitation of disease or disaster. It denotes a severe, often sudden, affliction sent by God as a judgment. Its usage here evokes the plagues upon Egypt in Exodus, underscoring a consistent pattern of divine judgment against defiant nations.
* **heathen (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** This term refers to a foreign nation or, by extension, a Gentile. It signifies peoples distinct from Israel, emphasizing the universal scope of God's future reign and the inclusion (or judgment) of all non-Israelite peoples. In this context, it highlights that the command to worship and the subsequent judgment apply to all nations, not just a select few.
* **feast (Hebrew, _chag'_):** Derived from _châgag_ (to move in a circle, observe a festival), this word denotes a festival or a solemn feast day. It specifically refers to one of the three major pilgrimage festivals in ancient Israel. Here, it underscores the Feast of Tabernacles as the prescribed annual worship event for all nations in the Messianic kingdom, signifying a global acknowledgment of God's dwelling and provision.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And if the family of Egypt go not up, and come not, that [have] no [rain];"**: This clause sets forth a specific conditional judgment directed at Egypt. The "family of Egypt" refers to the entire nation or its representatives. Their failure to "go up" to Jerusalem for worship will result in a unique punishment: "no rain." This is particularly impactful for Egypt, a nation whose agriculture traditionally depended on the Nile's annual inundation, not rainfall, highlighting God's ability to disrupt their very life source in a way that is culturally and geographically specific.
* **"there shall be the plague, wherewith the LORD will smite the heathen that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles."**: This second clause broadens the scope of judgment. While Egypt faces a specific drought, other "heathen" nations (non-Israelite peoples) who likewise refuse to "come up" to Jerusalem to "keep the feast of tabernacles" will be afflicted with a general "plague." This plague, a divine "smite" from the LORD, signifies a devastating, divinely inflicted disaster or disease, emphasizing the universal accountability of all nations to God's future reign and His prescribed worship.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 14:18 employs several potent literary devices. **Conditional Prophecy** is central, presenting a clear "if-then" scenario for the nations, particularly Egypt, regarding their obedience to the Lord's future command to worship. This highlights divine justice and accountability. **Contrast** is evident in the differing judgments: Egypt receives "no rain," a specific and ironic punishment given their reliance on the Nile, while other "heathen" nations face a more general "plague." This particularization for Egypt demonstrates God's precise and tailored judgment. **Allusion** to the Exodus plagues is strong, especially with the use of "plague" (_maggêphâh_), recalling God's historical judgments against a defiant Egypt and underscoring a consistent divine character. The entire passage is a powerful example of **Eschatological Prophecy**, painting a vivid picture of future events, the universal reign of God, and the consequences for those who resist His sovereignty.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 14:18 profoundly underscores the universal scope of God's future kingdom and the non-negotiable nature of His sovereignty. It reveals that the Messianic era, while glorious, will not be a period of unrestrained freedom from divine law, but rather one of heightened accountability. The requirement for all nations to worship the King and keep the Feast of Tabernacles signifies the global expansion of God's covenant and the ultimate ingathering of all peoples under His benevolent yet firm rule. The specific judgments highlight God's absolute control over all creation, demonstrating that even natural elements serve His purposes of judgment and blessing. This prophecy serves as a powerful reminder that true peace and prosperity are inextricably linked to acknowledging God's authority and engaging in genuine worship, a principle that transcends dispensations.

* [Psalm 2:10-12](/psalms/2-10-12 "Psalm 2:10-12 - Kings and Rulers Warned to Serve the Lord")
* [Isaiah 60:12](/isaiah/60-12 "Isaiah 60:12 - Nations That Do Not Serve Jerusalem Will Perish")
* [Revelation 15:4](/revelation/15-4 "Revelation 15:4 - All Nations Will Worship God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 14:18, while a prophecy about a future global reality, offers profound truths for our present lives. It reminds us that God's sovereignty is universal and extends over all nations and individuals. Our willingness to worship God now, to acknowledge His rightful place as King in our lives, and to live in obedience to His commands is a reflection of a heart prepared for His future kingdom. The consequences for disobedience, even in a time of great blessing, highlight the seriousness of rejecting God's authority. This should inspire a healthy fear of the Lord, not a cowering dread, but a profound reverence that leads to humble submission and joyful worship. We are called to anticipate that glorious day when the Lord will indeed be King over all the earth, living now as citizens of His coming kingdom, proclaiming His truth, and inviting others into His reign.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of universal worship in Zechariah 14:18 shape your understanding of God's ultimate plan for humanity?**
* **What does the specific judgment on Egypt (no rain) reveal about God's precision and sovereignty in judgment?**
* **In what ways does your current worship reflect an anticipation of God's future, universal reign?**
* **How does the warning of judgment for disobedience encourage you to live a life of greater obedience and reverence today?**

### FAQ

**Why is Egypt singled out for a specific punishment?**
Answer: Egypt is singled out in Zechariah 14:18 for a unique punishment ("no rain") primarily due to its historical and symbolic significance as a persistent oppressor of Israel and a symbol of worldly rebellion against God. The specific judgment of drought is particularly pointed because Egypt's agriculture traditionally depended on the annual flooding of the Nile River, not rainfall. This demonstrates God's precise control over their unique ecosystem and serves as a direct reversal of their natural blessing, echoing the plagues God sent upon Egypt in the book of [Exodus](/exodus/7 "Exodus - The Plagues on Egypt"). It highlights God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to tailor judgment to specific contexts.

**What is the significance of the Feast of Tabernacles in this prophecy?**
Answer: The Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) was one of the three major annual pilgrimage festivals in ancient Israel, commemorating God's provision during the wilderness wanderings and His dwelling among His people. In Zechariah 14, its elevation to a universal annual pilgrimage for all surviving nations in the Messianic kingdom ([Zechariah 14:16](/zechariah/14-16 "Zechariah 14:16 - Nations Keep the Feast of Tabernacles")) signifies the global expansion of God's covenant and the ingathering of all peoples to worship the true King. It symbolizes the ultimate fulfillment of God's desire to dwell with humanity and the universal celebration of His presence and provision in the new earth.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 14:18, with its vision of universal worship and divine judgment, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the King of kings and Lord of lords ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")). While Zechariah describes a future earthly reign, the spiritual reality it foreshadows is already inaugurated through Christ's first coming and will be consummated at His second. Jesus, as the true tabernacle, "dwelt among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), making it possible for humanity to truly worship God. The call for all nations to come and worship finds its echo in the Great Commission, where disciples are commanded to make disciples of all nations ([Matthew 28:19](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission")), bringing them into the worship of the triune God. The judgment pronounced on those who refuse to worship foreshadows Christ's ultimate role as judge of all humanity ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Has Entrusted All Judgment to the Son")), where every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). Thus, Zechariah 14:18 points forward to a time when Christ's universal reign will be fully manifest, and all creation will acknowledge Him as the rightful and sovereign King.

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 14:15

And so shall be the plague of the horse, of the mule, of the camel, and of the ass, and of all the beasts that shall be in these tents, as this plague.

Deuteronomy 11:10

For the land, whither thou goest in to possess it, [is] not as the land of Egypt, from whence ye came out, where thou sowedst thy seed, and wateredst [it] with thy foot, as a garden of herbs:

Deuteronomy 11:11

But the land, whither ye go to possess it, [is] a land of hills and valleys, [and] drinketh water of the rain of heaven:

Zechariah 14:12

And this shall be the plague wherewith the LORD will smite all the people that have fought against Jerusalem; Their flesh shall consume away while they stand upon their feet, and their eyes shall consume away in their holes, and their tongue shall consume away in their mouth.