Zechariah 14:7

KJV

But it shall be one day which shall be known to the LORD, not day, nor night: but it shall come to pass, [that] at evening time it shall be light.

KJV (with Strong's)

But it shall be one {H259} day {H3117} which shall be known {H3045} to the LORD {H3068}, not day {H3117}, nor night {H3915}: but it shall come to pass, that at evening {H6153} time {H6256} it shall be light {H216}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and one day, known to ADONAI, will be neither day nor night, although by evening there will be light.

Berean Standard Bible

It will be a day known only to the LORD, without day or night; but when evening comes, there will be light.

American Standard Version

but it shall be one day which is known unto Jehovah; not day, and not night; but it shall come to pass, that at evening time there shall be light.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 14:7 offers a profound and enigmatic prophecy concerning a singular, divinely appointed future day, often associated with the "Day of the Lord." This day transcends normal temporal cycles, being neither conventional day nor night, yet it culminates in a striking paradox: at the time of evening, light will miraculously appear. The verse paints a vivid picture of God's ultimate sovereignty over creation and time, foreshadowing a radical transformation that will usher in an era of continuous divine illumination and presence, marking the full establishment of His kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 14 serves as the climactic conclusion to the book of Zechariah, a prophetic work delivered to the post-exilic community in Jerusalem. The entire chapter describes the dramatic culmination of God's redemptive plan, often interpreted as prophecies concerning the final cosmic conflict and the glorious establishment of God's kingdom on earth. It begins with a depiction of Jerusalem under siege by all nations, followed by God's miraculous intervention, the splitting of the Mount of Olives, and the transformation of the land into a plain. Verse 7 specifically focuses on the atmospheric and temporal conditions of this prophesied "Day of the Lord," highlighting its unique, supernatural character that defies normal human experience. It sets the stage for a period of unparalleled divine presence and blessing, where the very fabric of creation is altered to reflect God's glory and absolute control.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Zechariah prophesied during the Persian period, after the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon. The people were engaged in rebuilding the temple and re-establishing their national identity, often facing discouragement and opposition. The prophecies in Zechariah, particularly chapters [Zechariah 9-14](/zechariah/9-14 "Zechariah 9-14 - Oracles of the Messiah and the Day of the Lord"), shift from immediate post-exilic concerns to eschatological visions, offering hope for a future global triumph of God's kingdom. The concept of the "Day of the Lord" was a well-established prophetic theme, signifying a time of divine judgment and salvation, but Zechariah's portrayal in [Zechariah 14](/zechariah/14 "Zechariah 14 - The Day of the Lord and God's Kingdom") adds unique, cosmic dimensions, emphasizing God's direct intervention in the natural order. The cultural understanding of "day" and "night" as fundamental, unchanging cycles makes the prophecy of their alteration all the more striking and indicative of a supernatural event.
* **Key Themes:** Zechariah 14:7 contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within the book and broader biblical prophecy. Firstly, it underscores **The Unique "Day of the Lord,"** emphasizing that this day is singular and distinct, "known to the LORD." This signifies a period entirely under God's exclusive control and revelation, unlike any other day in history, speaking to God's ultimate sovereignty over time and creation, particularly in the unfolding of end-times prophecy (cf. [Joel 3:14](/joel/3-14 "Joel 3:14 - The Day of the Lord is Near")). Secondly, it highlights **Supernatural Light and Divine Presence.** The absence of a clear distinction between day and night, coupled with light appearing at evening, signifies a miraculous alteration of the natural order. This continuous illumination is often interpreted as a manifestation of God's own glory and presence, dispelling all forms of darkness, both literal and spiritual. Lastly, the verse powerfully illustrates the **Reversal of Natural Order.** The most striking image, "at evening time it shall be light," is a profound **paradox**. Evening is typically when darkness descends. This reversal symbolizes God's power to transcend and transform natural laws, bringing light and hope even in what would normally be a time of obscurity or despair. It indicates a complete and decisive triumph over darkness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **one (Hebrew, _ʼechâd'_):** From H259, meaning "united, i.e. one; or (as an ordinal) first." In this context, it emphasizes the singular, unique, and unparalleled nature of this specific day. It is a day set apart, distinct from all other days in history, highlighting its divine appointment and exceptional characteristics.
* **known (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** From H3045, a primitive root meaning "to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including observation, care, recognition; and causatively, instruction, designation, punishment, etc.)." Here, "known to the LORD" signifies that this day is exclusively understood, appointed, and orchestrated by God. Its qualities and timing are beyond human comprehension or control, residing solely within the divine counsel.
* **light (Hebrew, _ʼôwr'_):** From H216, meaning "illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.); bright, clear." This word denotes not just physical light but also spiritual clarity, joy, and the manifestation of divine presence. Its appearance at evening time signifies a miraculous, supernatural illumination that defies the natural order, symbolizing God's ultimate triumph over darkness and the establishment of His glorious presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But it shall be one day":** This phrase immediately establishes the unique and singular nature of the prophesied event. It is not an ordinary day but a distinct, unparalleled period in history, set apart by divine decree and possessing extraordinary characteristics.
* **"which shall be known to the LORD":** This clause emphasizes God's exclusive knowledge and sovereign control over this day. Its timing, its nature, and its unfolding are entirely within God's purview, hidden from human understanding until its appointed time. It underscores divine prerogative and mystery.
* **"not day, nor night":** This striking statement describes a temporal reality that transcends the normal cycle of light and darkness. It implies a continuous, unbroken state of illumination, suggesting a removal of the natural distinctions that govern earthly time. This is a supernatural condition, indicative of a new order.
* **"but it shall come to pass, that at evening time it shall be light":** This final clause presents a profound paradox and the climactic revelation of the verse. Evening is the natural time for darkness to descend, yet here, it is precisely when light appears. This signifies a miraculous reversal of the natural order, where divine light triumphs over expected obscurity, bringing an ultimate and perpetual clarity.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 14:7 is rich in literary devices that amplify its prophetic message. The most prominent is **Paradox**, evident in the phrases "not day, nor night" and especially "at evening time it shall be light." These statements defy conventional logic and natural experience, creating a sense of wonder and highlighting the supernatural nature of the prophesied day. This paradox emphasizes God's ability to transcend and transform the established order. **Symbolism** is also heavily employed, with "light" representing God's presence, glory, truth, and salvation, while "darkness" (implied by "night" and "evening") symbolizes absence, judgment, and despair. The triumph of light over evening darkness thus symbolizes God's ultimate victory over all forms of spiritual and physical obscurity. Furthermore, the description leans into **Hyperbole** or **Supernaturalism**, portraying a reality that goes beyond mere natural phenomena, underscoring the extraordinary, divine intervention that will characterize this future day.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 14:7 speaks powerfully to the eschatological hope of God's people, pointing to a future where divine presence permeates all reality, dispelling all forms of darkness. It underscores God's ultimate sovereignty over creation and time, assuring believers that His plan culminates in a glorious display of His light and truth. This continuous illumination signifies not merely physical light but the full manifestation of God's glory, wisdom, and righteousness, bringing an end to spiritual confusion and moral ambiguity. It is a vision of perfect clarity and unhindered communion with the Divine.

* [Revelation 21:23-25](/revelation/21-23-25 "Revelation 21:23-25 - The Lamb is the Light of the New Jerusalem")
* [Isaiah 60:19-20](/isaiah/60-19-20 "Isaiah 60:19-20 - The Lord Will Be Your Everlasting Light")
* [Psalm 36:9](/psalm/36-9 "Psalm 36:9 - In Your Light We See Light")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 14:7 offers profound hope and assurance to believers, reminding us that God's ultimate plan culminates in an era of perfect clarity and divine presence. Even when life seems to be entering its "evening time"—a period of increasing darkness, difficulty, or uncertainty—this verse assures us that God has the power to bring forth light, transforming despair into hope. It encourages us to trust in God's ultimate plan and sovereignty, knowing that He is in control of all times and seasons. This prophecy points to a future where all shadows are dispelled by His glorious presence, urging us to live with anticipation for that day, embracing the light of His truth even now in the midst of the world's darkness. It challenges us to reflect God's light in our own lives, knowing that His ultimate triumph guarantees the dispelling of all spiritual and physical obscurity.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of a day "known to the LORD" influence your understanding of God's sovereignty over time and history?**
* **In what "evening times" of your life have you experienced God bringing unexpected light or clarity?**
* **How can the promise of continuous divine light in the future impact your perspective on current struggles or periods of spiritual darkness?**

### FAQ
**What is the "Day of the Lord" mentioned in Zechariah 14:7?**

Answer: The "Day of the Lord" is a prominent biblical theme referring to a future period when God will directly intervene in human history to judge evil and establish His righteous kingdom. In Zechariah 14, it describes a climactic series of events involving the siege of Jerusalem, divine intervention, the transformation of the earth, and the establishment of God's reign over all nations. Verse 7 specifically describes the unique temporal and atmospheric conditions of this day, emphasizing its supernatural character where natural cycles are superseded by continuous divine light. This day signifies God's ultimate triumph and the full manifestation of His glory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 14:7 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of the divine light that dispels all darkness. While the verse speaks of a future eschatological day, the reality it describes—a world bathed in God's perpetual light—is inaugurated through Christ. Jesus declared Himself to be "[the light of the world](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World"); whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." He is the "true light, which gives light to everyone," coming into the world ([John 1:9](/john/1-9 "John 1:9 - The True Light")). The paradox of "at evening time it shall be light" is resolved in Christ, who brings hope and illumination even into the darkest moments of human existence and the deepest shadows of sin and death. His death and resurrection represent the ultimate triumph of light over darkness, securing the promise of a new creation where "there will be no more night" because "the Lord God will give them light" ([Revelation 22:5](/revelation/22-5 "Revelation 22:5 - No More Night, God Gives Light")). Thus, the prophetic vision of Zechariah 14:7 points directly to the person and work of Jesus, who brings about the eternal day of God's presence and glory.

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

Revelation 22:5

And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

Revelation 21:23

And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb [is] the light thereof.

Daniel 12:4

But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, [even] to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.

Isaiah 30:26

Moreover the light of the moon shall be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun shall be sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day that the LORD bindeth up the breach of his people, and healeth the stroke of their wound.

1 Thessalonians 5:2

For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

Mark 13:32

But of that day and [that] hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.

Acts 1:7

And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.