TRV
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 2:1–5. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
This prophet was ordered, in God's name, to assure the people (Zac 1:16) that a line should be stretched forth upon Jerusalem. Now here we have that promise illustrated and confirmed, that the prophet might deliver that part of his message to the people with the more clearness and assurance.
I.He sees, in a vision, a man going to measure Jerusalem (Zac 2:1, Zac 2:2):
He lifted up his eyes again, and looked. God had shown him that which was very encouraging to him, (Zac 1:20), and therefore now he lifted up his eyes again and looked. Note, The comfortable sights which by faith we have had of God's goodness made to pass before us should engage us to lift up our eyes again, and to search further into the discoveries made to us of the divine grace; for there is still more to be seen. In the close of the foregoing chapter he had seen Jerusalem's enemies baffled and broken, so that now he begins to hope she shall not be ruined. But that is not enough to make her happy, and therefore that is not all that is promised. Here is more carpenter's work to be done. When David had resolved to cut off the horns of the wicked he engaged likewise that the horns of the righteous should be exalted, Psa 75:10. And so does the Son of David here; for he is the man, even the man Christ Jesus, whom the prophet sees with a measuring line in his hand; for he is the master builder of his church (Heb 3:3), and he builds exactly by line and level. Zechariah took the boldness to ask him whither he was going and what he designed to do with that measuring line. And he readily told him that he was going to measure Jerusalem, to take a particular account of the dimensions of it each way, that it might be computed what was necessary for the making of a wall about it, and that it might appear, by comparing its dimensions with the vast numbers that should inhabit it, what additions were necessary to be made for the receiving and containing of them; when multitudes flock to Jerusalem (Isa 60:4) it is time for her to enlarge the place of her tent, Isa 54:2. Note, God takes notice of the extent of his church, and will take care that, when ever so many guests are brought in to the wedding supper, still there shall be room, Luk 14:22. In the New Jerusalem, my Father's house above, there are many mansions.
II.He is informed that this vision means well to Jerusalem, that the measuring line he saw was not a line of confusion (as that Isa 34:11), not a line to mete out for destruction, as when God purposed to destroy the wall of the daughter of Zion he stretched out a line (Lam 2:8); but it is as when he divided the inheritance by line, Psa 78:55. The angel that talked with the prophet went forth, as he designed, to measure Jerusalem, but another angel went out to meet him, to desire that he would first explain this vision to the prophet, that it might not occasion him any uneasy speculations: Run, and speak to this young man (for, it seems, the prophet entered upon his prophecy when he was young, yet no man ought to despise his youth when God thus highly honoured it); he is a young man, not experienced, and may be ready to fear the worst; therefore bid him hope the best; tell him that Jerusalem shall be both safe and great,
1.As safe and great as numbers of men can make it (Zac 2:4): Jerusalem shall be inhabited as towns without walls; the inhabitants of it shall increase, and multiply, and replenish it to admiration, so that it shall extend itself far beyond the present dimensions which now there is an account taken of. The walls of a city, as they defend it, so they straiten and confine it, and keep its inhabitants from multiplying beyond such a pitch; but Jerusalem, even when it is walled, to keep off the enemy, shall be inhabited as towns without walls. The city shall be in a manner lost in the suburbs, as London is, where the out-parishes are more populous than those within the walls. So shall it be with Jerusalem; it shall be extended as freely as if it had no walls at all, and yet shall be as safe as if it had the strongest walls, such a multitude of men (which are the best walls of a city) shall there be therein, and of cattle too, to be not only food, but wealth too, for those men. Note, The increase of the numbers of a people is a great blessing, is a fruit of God's blessing on them and an earnest of further blessings, Psa 107:38. They are multiplied, for he blesses them.
2.As safe and great as the presence of God can make it, Zac 2:5.
(1.)It shall be safe, for God himself will be a wall of fire round about it. Jerusalem had no walls about it at this time, but lay naked and exposed; formerly, when it had walls, the enemies not only broke through them, but broke them down; but now God will be unto her a wall of fire. Some think it alludes to shepherds that made fires about their flocks, or travellers that made fires about their tents in desert places, to frighten wild beasts from them. God will not only make a hedge about them as he did about Job (Zac 1:10), not only make walls and bulwarks about them, Isa 26:1 (those may be battered down), not only be as the mountains round about them, Psa 125:2 (mountains may be got over), but he will be a wall of fire round them, which cannot be broken through, nor scaled, nor undermined, nor the foundations of it sapped, nor can it be attempted, or approached, without danger to the assailants. God will not only make a wall of fire about her, but he will himself be such a wall; for our God is a consuming fire to his and his church's enemies. He is a wall of fire, not on one side only, but round about on every side.
(2.)It shall be great, for God himself will be the glory in the midst of it. His temple, his altar, shall be set up and attended there, and his institutions observed, and there then shall the tokens of his special presence and favour be, which will be the glory in the midst of them, will make them truly admirable in the eyes of all about them. God will have honour from them, and put honour upon them. Note, Those that have God for their God have him for their glory; those that have him in the midst of them have glory in the midst of them, and thence the church is said to be all glorious within. And those persons and places that have God to be the glory in the midst of them have him for a wall of fire round about them, for upon all that glory there is, and shall be, a defence, Isa 4:5. Now all this was fulfilled in part in Jerusalem, which in process of time became a very flourishing city, and made a very great figure in those parts of the world, much beyond what could have been expected, considering how low it was brought and how long it was ere it recovered itself; but it was to have its full accomplishment in the gospel-church, which is extended far, as towns without walls, by the admission of the Gentiles into it, and which has God, the Son of God, for its prince and protector.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
(Chapter 2, Verses 1, 2.) And I lifted up my eyes and saw: and behold, a man, and in his hand a measuring line. And I said: Where are you going? And he said to me, to measure Jerusalem, and see how wide it is, and how long it is. (Alternate translation: And he said to me, to measure Jerusalem, and see how high it is, and how long it is.) Septuagint: And I lifted up my eyes and saw: and behold, a man, and in his hand a measuring cord, and I said to him: Where are you going? And he said to me, to measure Jerusalem, and see how wide it is, and how long it is. With his eyes raised, Quiprius had seen sad things on the four horns. Now he raises his eyes again, to see the man about whom it is written: 'Behold the man, his name is the East' (Zech. VI, 12); about whom we also read above: 'And behold, a man riding on a red horse, and he stood among the myrtle trees that were in the bottom, or in the shady mountains' (Zech. I, 8). And about whom the Father speaks: 'He has built my city' (Heb. XI), of which God is the architect and builder. Here it is seen also from Ezechiel, holding a rope in his hand, and a reed measuring a cubit, to measure Jerusalem, the description of which, namely, its width and length, the same prophet continues in mystical language (Ezek. 40). Some think that this was fulfilled in part under Zerubbabel, and Jesus, and Ezra, and Nehemiah, and other leaders or kings, who ruled the people of Israel until the coming of the Lord and Savior. But others, especially the Jews, interpret it as a thousand-year kingdom, seeking physical things. But many of us refer to the heavenly Jerusalem, and say that it must be rebuilt, as it had been destroyed by the sins of the souls. The heretics suspect this. However, we interpret Mount Zion, the mother of the firstfruits and the saints, as the Church, which was built in the passion and resurrection of the Lord, and is continually being built by him who knows the measures and merits of each individual. What we said about the Church can also be applied to the souls of the believers, which are daily built by the Lord and experience His peace that was left to the apostles.
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Summary
Zechariah 2:1 introduces the third of Zechariah's eight nocturnal visions, presenting a striking image of a man with a measuring line. This scene immediately shifts the prophetic focus from the judgment of Judah's enemies to the divine intention for Jerusalem's future. It serves as a powerful message of hope and assurance to the post-exilic community, signaling God's precise and active involvement in the meticulous planning and promised restoration and expansion of their beloved city.
Context
Literary Context
This verse initiates the third of Zechariah's eight symbolic night visions, which span from Zechariah 1:7 to Zechariah 6:8. Preceding this vision, Zechariah 1:18-21 describes the "four horns" (representing the powers that scattered Judah) being cast down by "four smiths" (God's agents of judgment). Zechariah 2:1 thus marks a pivotal transition from divine retribution against Judah's oppressors to a positive declaration of God's restorative plans for Jerusalem itself. The vision immediately flows into the promise of Jerusalem's boundless expansion and divine protection in Zechariah 2:4-5, setting the stage for the glorious future of the city and its inhabitants.
Historical & Cultural Context
The visions of Zechariah were given around 520 BC, a critical period for the Jewish people who had returned to Jerusalem from their seventy-year Babylonian exile. They faced immense challenges, including a ruined city, a destroyed Temple, internal discouragement, and significant external opposition from surrounding peoples who sought to hinder their rebuilding efforts (as seen in Ezra 4). Prophets like Zechariah and Haggai were raised by God to encourage and motivate the disheartened returnees to resume and complete the rebuilding of the Temple. In this context, the imagery of a "measuring line" would have been highly significant. It was a common tool for surveying, city planning, and construction, symbolizing order, precision, and the establishment of new boundaries. For a people whose city lay in ruins, this symbol would have conveyed a powerful message of impending order, reconstruction, and future prosperity, directly addressing their immediate concerns and deepest longings for security and stability.
Key Themes
Zechariah 2:1 introduces and reinforces several major themes woven throughout the book. Firstly, it highlights Divine Oversight and Planning, emphasizing that God is not distant but intimately involved in the details of Jerusalem's future, meticulously orchestrating its restoration. Secondly, it underscores the theme of Restoration and Rebuilding, directly addressing the primary task of the returning exiles. The measuring line suggests not just a return to former glory, but an expansion beyond previous limits, signifying a future of unprecedented growth and blessing. This vision also powerfully communicates Hope and Assurance to a struggling community. In a time of despair and opposition, the divine measurement serves as a guarantee of God's sovereign plan, promising a secure and prosperous future for His people and their holy city. This promise resonates with the broader prophetic messages of future glory and the establishment of God's kingdom, as seen in passages like Isaiah 60.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term (H376) refers to an individual or male person. In prophetic visions like Zechariah's, the "man" often denotes an angelic messenger or a divine representative, serving as a guide or revelator of God's purposes. His appearance here signifies a divinely appointed agent carrying out God's will.
This word properly means "extension," referring to height, breadth, or a standard measure. It implies precise dimension and careful calculation, underscoring the meticulous and intentional nature of God's plan for Jerusalem.
This term (H2256) refers to a rope or cord, specifically a measuring line. When combined with middâh, it forms the phrase "measuring line," emphasizing a tool used for surveying, dividing land, and establishing exact dimensions for building. Its presence indicates a methodical and deliberate process of construction and organization.
Verse Breakdown
"I lifted up mine eyes again, and looked"
This phrase signals Zechariah's posture of receptivity to divine revelation. The word "again" (Hebrew: shuv, not explicitly in Strong's for this verse but implied by the context of continuing visions) indicates that this is a new, distinct vision following previous ones, highlighting the ongoing nature of God's communication to His prophet. It emphasizes the visual nature of the prophetic experience, where Zechariah is an observer of heavenly realities.
"and behold a man"
The sudden appearance of this figure, introduced with the interjection "behold" (Hebrew: hinneh), draws attention to his significance. As often in Zechariah's visions, this "man" is understood to be an angelic messenger, an agent of God, rather than an ordinary human, tasked with revealing God's specific intentions.
"with a measuring line in his hand"
This is the central symbolic element of the verse. The measuring line, a practical tool for construction and surveying, immediately conveys purpose, precision, and the intention to build or establish boundaries. Its presence in the hand of the angelic figure signifies that God's plans for Jerusalem are concrete, meticulously detailed, and actively being put into motion, assuring the exiles of a future of order and growth.
Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs Visionary Language, as it is presented as a direct account of a prophetic vision experienced by Zechariah. This mode of revelation is common in prophetic books, allowing for the communication of complex theological truths through symbolic imagery. The most prominent device is Symbolism: the "man" symbolizes a divine agent or angelic messenger, while the "measuring line" is a potent symbol of divine intention, meticulous planning, and the precise, ordered restoration and expansion of Jerusalem. It suggests a future that is not haphazard but carefully calculated and guaranteed by God. The phrase "I lifted up mine eyes again, and looked" also functions as a Framing Device, signaling the beginning of a new distinct revelation within the series of night visions, drawing the reader's attention to the unfolding divine scene.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Zechariah 2:1 powerfully articulates God's unwavering faithfulness and meticulous sovereignty over the destiny of His people. The appearance of the man with the measuring line reveals that God's plans for Jerusalem are not vague aspirations but precise, detailed blueprints. This vision reassures the struggling post-exilic community that despite their present ruins and opposition, God is actively engaged in their restoration, ensuring that their future is secure and prosperous according to His divine design. It underscores the theological truth that God's covenant promises are immutable, and He orchestrates history to bring about His purposes, even using instruments of measurement to convey the exactitude of His intentions for His chosen city and people.
Reflection and Application
Zechariah 2:1 offers profound encouragement for believers today, reminding us that God is a God of order, intention, and meticulous planning, even when our lives or circumstances feel chaotic and broken. Just as He had a precise vision for the rebuilding of Jerusalem, He has a divine purpose and design for our individual lives, our families, and our communities. This verse calls us to trust in His sovereign hand, knowing that He is actively at work, "measuring out" our future with care and precision. When we face daunting tasks, feel overwhelmed by opposition, or perceive our own "ruins," Zechariah's vision assures us that God's plans for us are for peace and a hopeful future, not for destruction. It prompts us to align our efforts with His divine blueprint, relying on His provision and guidance for every step of our own "rebuilding" process, confident that His vision for us extends far beyond our current limitations.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who is the "man" in this vision, and what is his role?
The "man" in Zechariah 2:1 is widely understood by scholars to be an angelic messenger, often referred to as the interpreting angel, a common figure throughout Zechariah's visions. His role is to reveal and explain God's plans and purposes to the prophet. In this specific instance, he appears with a measuring line, symbolizing his function as an agent of God's precise and intentional work in the restoration and future expansion of Jerusalem. He is not merely an observer but an active participant in the divine revelation.
What is the primary symbolism of the "measuring line" in this context?
The "measuring line" (Hebrew: chebel middah) primarily symbolizes divine planning, meticulous intention, and future construction. For the post-exilic community, it conveyed a powerful message of hope: that God was not only going to restore Jerusalem but would expand it beyond its former boundaries, indicating a future of immense growth, prosperity, and security. It represents God's precise and ordered blueprint for His city, assuring the people that their rebuilding efforts were part of a larger, divinely orchestrated plan, much like the detailed measurements given for the future Temple in Ezekiel 40-42.
How does this vision relate to the broader message of Zechariah's prophecy?
This vision is central to Zechariah's overarching message of encouragement and hope for the returned exiles. It directly addresses their immediate concerns about rebuilding Jerusalem and the Temple by assuring them of God's active involvement and glorious plans. It reinforces themes of divine restoration, the future glory of Zion, and God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. The vision of a measured and expanding Jerusalem foreshadows the ultimate spiritual and physical prosperity that God intends for His people, culminating in the messianic era where God Himself will be the city's protection and glory, as promised in Zechariah 2:5.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Zechariah 2:1, with its vision of a man measuring Jerusalem for restoration and expansion, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the immediate context speaks to the physical rebuilding of Jerusalem, the New Testament reveals that Christ is the true builder of God's eternal city and kingdom. He is the one who meticulously plans and executes the spiritual rebuilding of humanity, establishing a new covenant community that transcends physical boundaries. Just as the measuring line signified God's precise intention for Jerusalem, Christ's work on the cross and His resurrection demonstrate God's perfect plan for redemption, bringing order and purpose to a world marred by sin. Through Christ, the promise of an ever-expanding, secure dwelling place for God's people is realized, not in a walled city, but in the Church, His body, which is built upon Him as the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:19-22). The vision of the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21, measured with a golden reed, points to the perfect, divinely designed dwelling where God dwells with His people, a reality made possible only through the finished work of the Lamb of God. Thus, the measuring line in Zechariah foreshadows Christ's ultimate act of bringing God's people into a perfectly ordered, eternally secure, and infinitely expansive relationship with their Creator, fulfilling the deepest longings for peace and security that the exiles sought in their earthly Jerusalem (John 14:27).