Zechariah 2:2

KJV

Then said I, Whither goest thou? And he said unto me, To measure Jerusalem, to see what [is] the breadth thereof, and what [is] the length thereof.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then said {H559} I, Whither goest {H1980} thou? And he said {H559} unto me, To measure {H4058} Jerusalem {H3389}, to see {H7200} what {H4100} is the breadth {H7341} thereof, and what is the length {H753} thereof.

Complete Jewish Bible

I asked, "Where are you going?" He said to me, "To measure Yerushalayim, to determine its width and length."

Berean Standard Bible

“Where are you going?” I asked. “To measure Jerusalem,” he replied, “and to determine its width and length.”

American Standard Version

Then said I, Whither goest thou? And he said unto me, To measure Jerusalem, to see what is the breadth thereof, and what is the length thereof.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 2:2 captures a pivotal moment in the prophet's third vision, where he encounters a celestial figure with a measuring line. The prophet's inquiry, "Whither goest thou?" elicits the response that the figure intends "To measure Jerusalem, to see what is the breadth thereof, and what is the length thereof." This seemingly mundane act of surveying, however, serves as a profound symbolic prelude to a divine promise: Jerusalem's future glory and expansion will be so immense that it will transcend all humanly imposed boundaries, relying instead on God's own presence as its ultimate protection and glory.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 2:2 is nestled within the third of Zechariah's eight nocturnal visions, which begin in [Zechariah 1:7](/zechariah/1-7 "Zechariah's Eight Visions"). The preceding verse, [Zechariah 2:1](/zechariah/2-1 "Zechariah 2:1 - The Man with the Measuring Line"), introduces "a man with a measuring line in his hand," immediately prompting the prophet's question in the current verse. This vision, unlike some others, directly involves the prophet's interaction and inquiry. The answer received in [Zechariah 2:2](/zechariah/2-2 "Zechariah 2:2 - Measuring Jerusalem") sets the stage for the dramatic revelation that follows in [Zechariah 2:3-5](/zechariah/2-3-5 "Zechariah 2:3-5 - Jerusalem's Future Expansion and Divine Protection"), where an angel intervenes to declare that Jerusalem will expand so greatly that it will be "without walls for the multitude of men and cattle therein," with the Lord Himself serving as "a wall of fire round about" and "the glory in the midst of her." Thus, the measurement is not for limitation but for an astonishing, boundless future.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The visions of Zechariah were given to the Jewish community in Jerusalem around 520-518 BC, roughly 16-18 years after their initial return from Babylonian exile. This was a period of significant challenge and discouragement. The Temple rebuilding project, initiated under Zerubbabel and Joshua, had stalled due and opposition and apathy (as seen in [Haggai 1](/haggai/1 "Haggai 1 - Call to Rebuild the Temple")). Jerusalem itself was a desolate, partially rebuilt city, far from its former glory. The people were living under Persian rule, a stark contrast to their previous independence. In this context of physical ruin and spiritual weariness, the visions served as powerful divine encouragement, assuring the exiles of God's continued presence, protection, and ultimate plan for their restoration and prosperity, far beyond their current humble circumstances. The act of measuring a city was common for urban planning, but here it takes on a supernatural dimension.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, within its broader context, contributes significantly to several key themes in Zechariah and the Old Testament. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Planning**, demonstrating that God has a meticulously detailed, yet ultimately boundless, plan for His people and their dwelling place. The measurement is not arbitrary but part of His perfect design. Secondly, it powerfully conveys **Restoration and Expansion**, offering a vivid counter-narrative to the exiles' present desolation. The promise of a Jerusalem too vast to be contained by walls speaks to a future of unprecedented growth and blessing, echoing similar prophetic promises found in passages like [Isaiah 54:2-3](/isaiah/54-2-3 "Isaiah 54:2-3 - Enlarge Your Tent") and [Isaiah 60:1-3](/isaiah/60-1-3 "Isaiah 60:1-3 - The Glory of Jerusalem"). Thirdly, and most profoundly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Protection and Presence**. The measuring line ultimately points to the truth that Jerusalem's security will not come from human fortifications, but from the Lord Himself, who will be "a wall of fire round about" (as declared in [Zechariah 2:5](/zechariah/2-5 "Zechariah 2:5 - God as a Wall of Fire")). This emphasizes that true security and glory are found in God's immanent presence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **goest (Hebrew, _hâlak'_):** This primitive root signifies "to walk, to go" in a wide variety of applications, both literal and figurative. Here, it is used in the interrogative "Whither goest thou?" (לְאָן אַתָּה הֹלֵךְ), indicating the prophet's desire to understand the celestial figure's purpose and direction. The choice of this common verb highlights the seemingly ordinary nature of the action (walking, going) that is about to be revealed as profoundly significant.
* **measure (Hebrew, _mâdad'_):** This primitive root means "to stretch" or, by implication, "to measure (as if by stretching a line)." It conveys the act of surveying, assessing dimensions, or determining boundaries. In this context, the measuring is initially perceived as a practical act of urban planning or demarcation. However, the subsequent revelation in Zechariah 2:4-5 subverts this common understanding, transforming the act of measurement into a symbolic prelude to an immeasurable, divinely protected expansion.
* **Jerusalem (Hebrew, _Yᵉrûwshâlaim'_):** This is the capital city of Palestine, likely meaning "founded peaceful" or "foundation of peace." In the biblical narrative, Jerusalem is far more than a geographical location; it is the city of David, the place where God chose to put His name, and the spiritual center of Israel. At the time of Zechariah's prophecy, Jerusalem was in ruins, its walls broken. The mention of measuring Jerusalem, therefore, carries immense theological weight, pointing to God's enduring covenantal commitment to His chosen city and His people, promising its restoration and future glory.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then said I, Whither goest thou?":** This opening clause establishes the prophet Zechariah as an active participant in the vision, not merely a passive observer. His direct question to the angelic figure with the measuring line demonstrates his curiosity and desire for understanding. This human inquiry serves to draw the reader into the unfolding divine revelation, setting up the subsequent explanation of God's plans.
* **"And he said unto me,":** This simple connective phrase indicates the immediate response from the celestial figure. It signifies a direct, authoritative communication, emphasizing that the information Zechariah is about to receive is a divine revelation, not a human conjecture. The dialogue format makes the vision more dynamic and accessible.
* **"To measure Jerusalem,":** This is the initial, seemingly straightforward purpose stated by the angelic figure. The act of measuring a city typically implies a survey for rebuilding, planning, or establishing boundaries. In the post-exilic context, this would naturally suggest an assessment for the reconstruction of the city's walls and infrastructure. However, as the broader vision unfolds, this purpose is dramatically reinterpreted, revealing a measurement not for limitation, but for an unprecedented, boundless expansion.
* **"to see what [is] the breadth thereof, and what [is] the length thereof.":** This final part of the verse specifies the objective of the measurement: to ascertain the dimensions of Jerusalem. The phrase "to see" (Hebrew, _râʼâh_) implies a thorough examination or discernment. The breadth and length represent the full extent of the city's physical boundaries. Yet, the divine irony is that this measurement is not to define limits, but to highlight that Jerusalem's future will defy all such humanly conceived constraints, becoming immeasurable due to God's presence and blessing.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 2:2 employs several significant **Literary Devices**. Foremost is **Symbolism**, where the "measuring line" itself is a potent symbol. Initially, it appears to symbolize human planning and the establishment of physical boundaries, a common practice in ancient city building. However, the subsequent revelation in [Zechariah 2:4-5](/zechariah/2-4-5 "Zechariah 2:4-5 - Jerusalem's Boundless Future") subverts this expectation, transforming the measuring line into a symbol of God's *assessment* for boundless expansion, rather than limitation. It symbolizes divine foreknowledge and the meticulous nature of God's plan, which ultimately transcends human capacity. The city of **Jerusalem** itself is also highly symbolic, representing God's chosen people and the center of His dwelling, whose physical state reflects the spiritual condition of the nation. The dialogue format, specifically **Question and Answer**, between Zechariah and the angelic figure, serves to engage the reader and incrementally reveal the divine message, building anticipation for the full scope of God's promise. This interaction also highlights the prophet's role as an intermediary, seeking understanding for the benefit of the people. Furthermore, there is an element of **Irony** or **Paradox**, as the act of measuring, typically associated with defining limits, here foreshadows a reality of limitless growth and divine protection that renders physical walls obsolete.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 2:2, with its seemingly simple act of measuring, unveils profound theological truths about God's character and His plans for His people. It teaches us that God's vision for His kingdom and His people is always far grander and more expansive than human imagination or current circumstances can conceive. The measurement is not to restrict, but to affirm God's meticulous knowledge and intention for a future of unparalleled blessing and growth. It underscores that true security and prosperity are not found in human endeavors or physical fortifications, but solely in the immanent presence and protective power of God Himself. This divine presence transforms a vulnerable, post-exilic city into a secure, boundless dwelling, foreshadowing the ultimate spiritual reality of God's people.

* [Isaiah 54:2-3](/isaiah/54-2-3 "Isaiah 54:2-3 - Enlarge Your Tent")
* [Revelation 21:15-16](/revelation/21-15-16 "Revelation 21:15-16 - Measuring the New Jerusalem")
* [Ezekiel 40:3-5](/ezekiel/40-3-5 "Ezekiel 40:3-5 - Ezekiel's Vision of the Temple Measurement")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 2:2 offers a powerful message of hope and a profound lesson in divine perspective for believers today. In times of perceived limitation, scarcity, or vulnerability, this verse reminds us that God's plans are not confined by our human understanding or current circumstances. Just as Jerusalem was promised an immeasurable expansion beyond its broken walls, so too does God intend for His kingdom and His work in our lives to flourish in ways we cannot fully grasp. This calls us to trust in His boundless vision, even when our immediate reality seems constrained. It encourages us to shift our focus from human efforts to secure ourselves (like building physical walls) to relying on God's omnipresent protection and provision, recognizing that His presence is our ultimate security and glory. We are called to live with an expansive faith, knowing that God is at work to fulfill promises that transcend our present limitations, inviting us to participate in His grand, unfolding story.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or ministry do you feel limited or constrained, and how might Zechariah 2:2 encourage you to trust in God's boundless vision instead?**
* **How does the promise of God being "a wall of fire" around Jerusalem challenge your understanding of true security and protection?**
* **What "walls" or human-made defenses do you tend to rely on, and how can you surrender those to God's divine presence and protection?**
* **How does this vision of an expanding, divinely protected city inform your prayers and expectations for the growth of God's kingdom today?**

### FAQ

**Who is the "man" with the measuring line in Zechariah 2:2?**

Answer: The "man" with the measuring line in [Zechariah 2:2](/zechariah/2-2 "Zechariah 2:2 - Measuring Jerusalem") is generally understood to be an angelic figure, specifically a divine messenger. While not explicitly identified as the "angel of the Lord" (a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ), he is clearly a heavenly being sent by God to convey a prophetic message. His role is to initiate the vision by performing the symbolic act of measuring, which then leads to the more profound revelation by another angel concerning Jerusalem's future. This figure acts as an instrument of God's divine survey and a visual aid for Zechariah's understanding of God's expansive plans.

**What is the significance of "measuring Jerusalem" if it's going to be boundless?**

Answer: The act of "measuring Jerusalem" in [Zechariah 2:2](/zechariah/2-2 "Zechariah 2:2 - Measuring Jerusalem") is deeply symbolic and carries a profound significance that is revealed in the subsequent verses. Initially, it appears to be a practical survey, perhaps for rebuilding the city's walls and infrastructure after the exile. However, the angelic explanation in [Zechariah 2:4-5](/zechariah/2-4-5 "Zechariah 2:4-5 - Jerusalem's Boundless Future") reveals the true meaning: the measurement is not to *limit* Jerusalem, but to *assess* its potential for a future so vast and populous that it will exceed any physical boundaries. It signifies God's precise knowledge and meticulous planning for an immeasurable expansion, where the city will be "without walls for the multitude of men and cattle therein." Ultimately, the measurement serves to highlight that Jerusalem's true security and glory will not depend on man-made defenses, but on God Himself, who will be "a wall of fire round about, and will be the glory in the midst of her." It's a divine paradox: measuring the immeasurable to demonstrate God's boundless blessing and protection.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 2:2, with its vision of a boundless, divinely protected Jerusalem, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the New Covenant community, the Church. The Old Testament Jerusalem, though a physical city, always pointed to a greater spiritual reality—God's dwelling place among His people. In Christ, this dwelling place is no longer confined to a geographical location or physical walls. Jesus Himself declares, "In my Father's house are many mansions... I go to prepare a place for you" ([John 14:2-3](/john/14-2-3 "John 14:2-3 - Jesus Prepares a Place")). The "Jerusalem without walls" foreshadows the Church, which is not bounded by physical or ethnic lines, but is a spiritual temple built upon Christ as the cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - The Church as a Holy Temple")). Believers, both Jew and Gentile, are now citizens of "the heavenly Jerusalem" ([Hebrews 12:22-24](/hebrews/12-22-24 "Hebrews 12:22-24 - The Heavenly Jerusalem")), a spiritual reality that transcends earthly limitations. The promise of God being "a wall of fire" around Jerusalem is perfectly fulfilled in Christ, who is our ultimate protector and the source of our security. He is the "glory in the midst" of His people, dwelling among us through the Holy Spirit. This vision culminates in the New Jerusalem described in Revelation, which descends from heaven, needing no temple or sun, "for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof" ([Revelation 21:22-27](/revelation/21-22-27 "Revelation 21:22-27 - The Glory of the New Jerusalem")). Thus, Zechariah's vision points directly to the expansive, secure, and glorious reality of God's kingdom established and perfected in Christ.

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

Jeremiah 31:39

And the measuring line shall yet go forth over against it upon the hill Gareb, and shall compass about to Goath.

Ezekiel 45:6

And ye shall appoint the possession of the city five thousand broad, and five and twenty thousand long, over against the oblation of the holy [portion]: it shall be for the whole house of Israel.

Revelation 21:15

And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof.

Revelation 21:17

And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred [and] forty [and] four cubits, [according to] the measure of a man, that is, of the angel.

Revelation 11:1

¶ And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein.

Ezekiel 48:15

And the five thousand, that are left in the breadth over against the five and twenty thousand, shall be a profane [place] for the city, for dwelling, and for suburbs: and the city shall be in the midst thereof.

Ezekiel 48:17

And the suburbs of the city shall be toward the north two hundred and fifty, and toward the south two hundred and fifty, and toward the east two hundred and fifty, and toward the west two hundred and fifty.