Zechariah 2:10

KJV

¶ Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion: for, lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

Sing {H7442} and rejoice {H8055}, O daughter {H1323} of Zion {H6726}: for, lo, I come {H935}, and I will dwell {H7931} in the midst {H8432} of thee, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Sing, daughter of Tziyon;

Berean Standard Bible

“Shout for joy and be glad, O Daughter of Zion, for I am coming to dwell among you,” declares the LORD.

American Standard Version

Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion; for, lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 2:10 is a vibrant prophetic summons to the post-exilic community of Jerusalem, personified as the "daughter of Zion," to celebrate with exultant joy. This command is grounded in the glorious promise that the LORD Himself is coming to dwell intimately and permanently in their midst, signifying divine restoration, protection, and a renewed covenant relationship after a period of exile and despair.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 2:10 is situated within a series of eight night visions granted to the prophet Zechariah, which collectively serve to encourage the disheartened Jewish returnees in their task of rebuilding the Second Temple and the city of Jerusalem. Preceding this verse, Zechariah 1 describes visions of God's judgment against the nations that oppressed Israel, symbolized by four horns, and the divine agents who will cast them down (carpenters). Zechariah 2 specifically opens with a vision of a man measuring Jerusalem, indicating its future expansion beyond its current walls. This is immediately followed by the powerful declaration in [Zechariah 2:5](/zechariah/2-5 "Zechariah 2:5 - God as a Wall of Fire") that the LORD Himself will be a wall of fire around Jerusalem for protection and the glory in her midst. Verse 10, therefore, is a direct, joyful response to this divine assurance, calling the city to rejoice in the imminent and tangible presence of God, which transcends any physical defenses. It sets the stage for the subsequent promise that many nations will join themselves to the LORD in [Zechariah 2:11](/zechariah/2-11 "Zechariah 2:11 - Many Nations Joined to the LORD"), highlighting Jerusalem's future role as a spiritual magnet.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy of Zechariah was given around 520-518 BC, during the early post-exilic period. The Jewish people had returned from 70 years of Babylonian captivity, a period marked by the destruction of the First Temple and the Davidic monarchy. Though physically back in their land, they faced immense challenges: economic hardship, opposition from surrounding peoples, and a deep sense of discouragement regarding the rebuilding of the Temple. The initial fervor for reconstruction had waned, and the Temple lay unfinished for years. Zechariah, along with the prophet Haggai, was commissioned by God to rekindle hope and motivate the people to complete the Temple. Culturally, the concept of God dwelling "in the midst" of His people was central to Israel's identity, rooted in the Tabernacle and Temple traditions. The absence of this manifest presence during the exile was a profound spiritual trauma, making the promise of God's return to dwell in Jerusalem a source of immense comfort and renewed purpose.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Zechariah and the broader prophetic tradition. First, the theme of **Divine Presence and Indwelling** is paramount. The promise "I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee" echoes ancient covenantal promises, such as God's instruction to build the Tabernacle so He might "dwell among them" in [Exodus 24:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God Dwelling Among Israel"). This theme signifies God's commitment to His people, providing protection, guidance, and intimate relationship. Second, the theme of **Joy and Celebration** is explicitly commanded. The call to "Sing and rejoice" marks a significant shift from the mourning and despair associated with exile and the unfinished Temple. This divinely commanded joy is rooted in God's faithfulness and His imminent intervention, not merely in present circumstances. This resonates with similar prophetic calls to the "Daughter of Zion" to rejoice in God's presence, as seen in [Zephaniah 3:14-17](/zephaniah/3-14-17 "Zephaniah 3:14-17 - The LORD is in Your Midst"). Third, the verse highlights the **Restoration of Zion**. "Daughter of Zion" is a poetic personification of Jerusalem and its inhabitants, emphasizing its spiritual and physical renewal as God's chosen dwelling place and the future center of His redemptive plans, not just for Israel but for all nations, as prophesied in [Zechariah 8:20-23](/zechariah/8-20-23 "Zechariah 8:20-23 - Nations Seeking the LORD in Jerusalem").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **daughter (Hebrew, _bath'_):** (H1323) This term, often used literally for a female offspring, is employed here as a poetic personification, "daughter of Zion," referring to the city of Jerusalem and its inhabitants. It conveys a sense of intimacy and affection, portraying the city not merely as a geographical location but as a beloved entity in a relationship with God. The use of "daughter" emphasizes vulnerability but also a special, cherished status.
* **dwell (Hebrew, _shâkan'_):** (H7931) This primitive root signifies to reside, permanently stay, or have habitation. It is the root from which the Hebrew term _Shekinah_ (referring to the manifest glory and presence of God) is derived. When applied to God, as here, it denotes a tangible, abiding, and intimate presence, not merely a fleeting visit. It evokes the historical reality of God's presence in the Tabernacle and Temple, promising a restoration of that divine indwelling.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** (H3068) This is the personal, covenantal name of God, often transliterated as Yahweh or Jehovah. It emphasizes God's self-existence, eternality, and His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises. The declaration "saith the LORD" underscores the divine authority and certainty of the prophecy, making the promise of His dwelling a guaranteed reality from the sovereign God of Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion:"** This is an imperative command, a joyful summons to the people of Jerusalem. "Sing" (H7442, _rânan_) implies a loud, exultant shout of joy, while "rejoice" (H8055, _sâmach_) suggests a brightening of countenance and a deep inner gladness. The address "O daughter of Zion" personifies Jerusalem and its inhabitants, inviting them into a communal expression of delight and hope, shifting their focus from past sorrow and present difficulties to future divine favor.
* **"for, lo, I come,"** This clause provides the foundational reason for the commanded joy. "For, lo" (or "behold") draws immediate attention to a significant, imminent event. "I come" (H935, _bôw'_) signifies the LORD's active and intentional movement towards His people. This is not a passive observation but an active divine intervention, promising a personal arrival and engagement with their situation.
* **"and I will dwell in the midst of thee,"** This is the core promise, articulating the nature of God's "coming." The verb "dwell" (H7931, _shâkan_) implies a permanent, intimate, and manifest presence. "In the midst of thee" (H8432, _tâvek_) emphasizes a central, pervasive, and accessible presence within the community itself, not merely an external oversight. This is a profound assurance of God's restoration of His intimate fellowship with His people.
* **"saith the LORD."** This concluding phrase serves as an authoritative divine oracle. "Saith" (H5002, _nᵉʼum_) indicates a prophetic utterance directly from God, guaranteeing the truth and certainty of the preceding promises. The use of "the LORD" (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_), God's covenant name, further reinforces the reliability of the promise, rooting it in His unchanging character and faithfulness.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 2:10 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of hope and divine promise. The most prominent is **Personification**, where Jerusalem and its inhabitants are addressed as "O daughter of Zion." This device imbues the city with human qualities, allowing for a direct, intimate, and affectionate address from God, making the divine promise more personal and relatable to the people. The verse also utilizes **Imperative Mood** in the commands "Sing and rejoice," which are not mere suggestions but authoritative calls to action, emphasizing the certainty and necessity of the appropriate response to God's impending arrival. Furthermore, the phrase "saith the LORD" functions as a **Divine Oracle Formula**, lending absolute authority and infallibility to the prophecy. It signals that these are not human words but a direct, unalterable declaration from the sovereign God, assuring the audience of the promise's fulfillment. Finally, the concept of God coming to "dwell in the midst of thee" carries strong **Symbolism** and **Metaphorical** weight, evoking the historical Tabernacle and Temple as physical manifestations of God's presence, while also pointing to a deeper, more pervasive spiritual reality of divine indwelling and protection that transcends physical structures.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 2:10 offers a profound theological statement about God's desire for intimate presence with His people. This promise of God dwelling "in the midst" of Zion is a continuation and culmination of a central theme throughout biblical history, from the Garden of Eden to the New Creation. It underscores the truth that God's ultimate purpose is to be with humanity, to share fellowship, and to provide protection and glory. This prophetic word not only offered immediate encouragement to the post-exilic community but also pointed forward to a greater fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit, ultimately culminating in the eternal state where God's dwelling is fully established among His redeemed people. The joy commanded in the verse is a theological response to the certainty of God's active and loving presence.

This promise finds echoes and further development throughout scripture:
* [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God Dwelling Among Israel"): "And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them."
* [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us"): "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth."
* [Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God's Dwelling with Humanity in the New Creation"): "And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 2:10 serves as a powerful reminder that our greatest source of joy and security is not found in our circumstances, accomplishments, or even the physical structures we build, but in the unwavering, intimate presence of God Himself. For the post-exilic community, this promise meant that despite their struggles and the unfinished Temple, God was with them, actively involved in their restoration. For believers today, this truth is even more profoundly realized through the finished work of Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit. We are called to "sing and rejoice" not because life is perfect, but because the LORD has come and continues to dwell in our midst. This divine presence transforms our perspective, empowers us through challenges, and assures us of ultimate victory. It calls us to live lives of worship, gratitude, and confident hope, knowing that the faithful God who promised to dwell with Zion is the same God who promises to never leave or forsake His children. Our joy is a testament to His faithfulness and His active involvement in our lives and in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of God's dwelling "in the midst of thee" transform your understanding of His relationship with you personally and with the church collectively?**
* **What specific challenges or periods of "rebuilding" in your life might this verse encourage you to "sing and rejoice" in, knowing God is present?**
* **In what ways can you more intentionally acknowledge and celebrate God's presence in your daily life, moving from despair or discouragement to joy?**

### FAQ
**What does "daughter of Zion" mean, and why is it used here?**

Answer: "Daughter of Zion" is a poetic and affectionate personification of Jerusalem and its inhabitants. It's a common biblical idiom used by prophets to refer to the city as a whole, often highlighting its special status as God's chosen dwelling place and the center of His covenant people. In [Zechariah 2:10](/zechariah/2-10 "Zechariah 2:10 - Sing and Rejoice, O Daughter of Zion"), it emphasizes the intimate relationship God has with His city and people, inviting them into a personal and communal response of joy to His promised presence. It conveys both vulnerability and cherished status, reinforcing the idea that God cares deeply for His people and their spiritual capital.

**How does God "come" and "dwell" in the midst of His people, both in Zechariah's time and today?**

Answer: In Zechariah's time, God's "coming" and "dwelling" referred to a renewed, manifest presence among the post-exilic community, signifying His protection, guidance, and the restoration of His glory to Jerusalem, particularly through the rebuilding of the Temple. This was a spiritual reality that would have tangible effects on their well-being and the city's prosperity, as seen in [Zechariah 2:5](/zechariah/2-5 "Zechariah 2:5 - God as a Wall of Fire"). For believers today, this promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is God incarnate, literally "dwelling among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us")). Furthermore, through the Holy Spirit, God "dwells" within every believer, making each one a "temple of the Holy Spirit" ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")). This indwelling presence provides spiritual power, comfort, and guidance, making God's presence a personal and constant reality for His church.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 2:10, with its glorious promise of the LORD coming to "dwell in the midst" of His people, finds its most profound and complete fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament longing for God's manifest presence, once symbolized by the Tabernacle and Temple, was fully realized when "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us")). Jesus, God incarnate, was the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise to be "Immanuel," God with us ([Matthew 1:23](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel, God With Us")). His earthly ministry was God literally dwelling in the midst of humanity, bringing salvation, healing, and the very kingdom of God. Furthermore, after His ascension, Christ sent the Holy Spirit to indwell believers, making each Christian and the collective church the new temple of God ([1 Corinthians 3:16](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16 - You Are the Temple of God")). This means the promise of God dwelling "in the midst of thee" is not just a historical event or a future hope, but a present reality for all who are in Christ. Ultimately, this promise points to the glorious eschatological fulfillment in the New Heavens and New Earth, where God's "tabernacle is with men, and he will dwell with them" forever, in the New Jerusalem ([Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God's Dwelling with Humanity in the New Creation")), where there will be no more sorrow or pain, only eternal joy in His perfect presence.

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 8:3

Thus saith the LORD; I am returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy mountain.

Matthew 28:20

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

Leviticus 26:12

And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people.

Zephaniah 3:14

¶ Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jerusalem.

Zephaniah 3:15

The LORD hath taken away thy judgments, he hath cast out thine enemy: the king of Israel, [even] the LORD, [is] in the midst of thee: thou shalt not see evil any more.

John 1:14

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Ezekiel 37:27

My tabernacle also shall be with them: yea, I will be their God, and they shall be my people.