Zechariah 2:12

Zechariah 2:12 is a powerful declaration of God's unwavering commitment to His people, Judah, and His chosen city, Jerusalem, following their return from Babylonian exile. It speaks to a future restoration and divine favor.

Context

This verse is part of a series of prophetic visions given to Zechariah, designed to encourage the post-exilic community in Jerusalem as they faced the daunting task of rebuilding the Temple and their lives. The preceding verses in Zechariah chapter 2 describe the immense future growth and glory of Jerusalem, envisioned as a city without walls due to its vast population and God's protective presence (Zechariah 2:4) and glory within it (Zechariah 2:5). Verse 12 serves as a theological foundation for this future hope, affirming God's direct involvement and enduring selection of His people and city.

Key Themes

• Divine Inheritance: The phrase "the LORD shall inherit Judah his portion" emphasizes God's personal and proprietary claim over Judah. It signifies a deep, covenantal relationship where God views Judah as His special possession, much like an inheritance passed down. This concept underscores God's unique election of Israel among the nations.
• The Holy Land: Referring to the land as "the holy land" highlights its sacred status, set apart by God for His purposes and His people. It is not just a geographical location but a divinely designated space for the outworking of His redemptive plan.
• Re-choosing Jerusalem: The declaration "and shall choose Jerusalem again" is a profound statement of renewed divine favor. After periods of judgment and desolation, God reaffirms His election of Jerusalem as the place where His name would dwell (1 Kings 8:44), signifying a reversal of their fortunes and a promise of future glory and prominence.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "inherit" is nachal (נָחַל), which carries the sense of taking possession, receiving as a heritage, or holding by lot. When applied to God, it signifies His sovereign and deliberate claim over Judah as His own special possession. The word for "choose" is bachar (בָּחַר), consistently used in scripture to describe God's sovereign selection based on His divine will, not on human merit. This reinforces the idea that God's favor towards Jerusalem is an act of His grace and faithfulness to His covenant promises, as seen in His initial choosing of Israel (Deuteronomy 7:6).

Practical Application

This verse offers immense encouragement and hope, not just to ancient Israel but to believers today. It assures us of God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises and His enduring love for His chosen people and places. It reminds us that:

• God's Promises Endure: Even when circumstances seem bleak or His people face judgment, God's ultimate plans for restoration and blessing remain firm.
• Divine Sovereignty: God remains in control of history, orchestrating events to fulfill His purposes, ultimately bringing about His kingdom and dwelling among His people (Revelation 21:3).
• Hope for the Future: For those who trust in God, there is a certain hope of future glory and a secure place within His divine plan, reflecting God's ultimate desire to dwell with His creation in perfect harmony.