Zechariah 2:3

Translation
King James Version
And, behold, the angel that talked with me went forth, and another angel went out to meet him,
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KJV (with Strong's)
And, behold, the angel H4397 that talked H1696 with me went forth H3318, and another H312 angel H4397 went out H3318 to meet H7125 him,
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Complete Jewish Bible
Here the angel who was speaking to me went forward, and another angel went out, met him
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Berean Standard Bible
Then the angel who was speaking with me went out, and another angel came out to meet him
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American Standard Version
And, behold, the angel that talked with me went forth, and another angel went out to meet him,
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World English Bible Messianic
Behold, the angel who talked with me went out, and another angel went out to meet him,
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Geneva Bible (1599)
And beholde, the Angel that talked with me, went foorth: and another Angel went out to meete him,
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Young's Literal Translation
And lo, the messenger who is speaking with me is going out, and another messenger is going out to meet him,
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See also
Zechariah 1:19Zechariah 1:8Zechariah 1:11Zechariah 4:5Zechariah 1:13Zechariah 1:14Zechariah 4:1
In the KJVVerse 22,903 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Zechariah 2:3 marks a pivotal transition within the prophet Zechariah's series of night visions. It describes the departure of the interpreting angel, who has guided Zechariah through previous revelations, and the simultaneous emergence of a second angel, who approaches the first. This dynamic interaction between heavenly messengers serves as a divine prelude, signaling the imminent impartation of a new and profoundly significant prophetic word concerning the future glory and security of Jerusalem.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Zechariah 2:3 is strategically placed within the larger framework of Zechariah's eight night visions, which span from Zechariah 1:7 to Zechariah 6:8. This particular verse acts as a bridge between the vision of the four horns and four smiths (Zechariah 1:18-21), which addressed the nations that oppressed Israel, and the subsequent vision of the man with the measuring line (Zechariah 2:1-5), which promises Jerusalem's boundless future. The "angel that talked with me" is Zechariah's consistent divine guide and interpreter throughout these visions, making his interaction with "another angel" a significant narrative event that prepares both the prophet and the reader for the profound message that follows regarding God's protective presence and the city's expansion.

  • Historical & Cultural Context: The prophet Zechariah ministered around 520 BC, a critical period for the Jewish exiles who had returned from Babylon to Judah. The land lay desolate, the Temple in Jerusalem was still in ruins, and the people faced significant challenges and discouragement. Alongside the prophet Haggai, Zechariah's primary mission was to encourage the returned exiles to complete the rebuilding of the Temple (Ezra 5:1-2) and to instill hope by reminding them of God's covenant faithfulness and His ultimate plans for Jerusalem's restoration and glory. The visions, including the one introduced in Zechariah 2, served to bolster the morale of a struggling community, assuring them that despite their present difficulties, God was actively working to fulfill His promises for their future.

  • Key Themes: Zechariah 2:3 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book. Firstly, it underscores Divine Communication and Revelation, highlighting God's active and intricate involvement in conveying His plans and purposes to humanity through His heavenly messengers. The orchestrated movement and interaction of these angels emphasize the unfolding of divine truth with precision and purpose. Secondly, it illustrates Angelic Activity, revealing the unseen yet very real spiritual realm where angels operate under God's command, working in concert to carry out His will and mediate His messages. Their dynamic interaction here is not arbitrary but purposeful. Finally, the verse functions as a Preparation for Further Insight, signaling that a new, vital phase of revelation is imminent. This prepares the prophet, and by extension, the reader, for the profound message that follows concerning the vast, secure, and divinely protected future of Jerusalem, a theme central to Zechariah's prophetic message of restoration and hope for God's people, as seen in Zechariah 2:4-5.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • angel (Hebrew, mălʼâk', H4397): Derived from an unused root meaning "to despatch as a deputy," this term primarily denotes a "messenger." While it can refer to human envoys, in this context, it unequivocally signifies a divine, heavenly being. The presence of two distinct mălʼâkîm underscores the orchestrated and purposeful nature of God's communication and the active role of His celestial agents in carrying out His will.
  • talked (Hebrew, dâbar', H1696): A primitive root, this word means "to speak" or "to arrange." Here, it highlights the ongoing, communicative relationship between the prophet Zechariah and his interpreting angel, emphasizing that the divine messages are not passively received but are actively conveyed through dialogue and explanation, preparing Zechariah for deeper understanding.
  • another (Hebrew, ʼachêr', H312): From a root meaning "to hinder," this word generally means "next" or "other." Its use here is crucial, as it introduces a distinct, new angelic presence into the scene, signaling that a fresh, perhaps even more significant, aspect of God's revelation is about to unfold. This "other" angel is not merely a duplicate but a specific agent with a new assignment.

Verse Breakdown

  • "And, behold,": This opening interjection (Hebrew: וְהִנֵּה, vəhinneh) serves as a literary device to capture the reader's attention, much like "Lo!" or "Look!" It signals that something significant and unexpected is about to happen, drawing immediate focus to the unfolding divine drama.
  • "the angel that talked with me went forth,": This identifies Zechariah's familiar interpreting angel, who has been explaining the previous visions. His "going forth" (Hebrew: יָצָא, yâtsâʼ) indicates a purposeful movement, a departure from his immediate interaction with Zechariah, likely to fulfill a new divine directive or to facilitate the next stage of the revelation.
  • "and another angel went out to meet him,": This clause introduces a new, distinct angelic figure. The phrase "went out to meet him" (Hebrew: יָצָא לִקְרָאתוֹ, yâtsâʼ liqrāʼtô) suggests a deliberate rendezvous, an orchestrated encounter between the two heavenly beings. This meeting is not accidental but a divinely appointed convergence, setting the stage for the communication of a new, crucial message that will be delivered through this second angel.

Literary Devices

Zechariah 2:3 employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and impact. The opening interjection "And, behold," immediately draws the reader's attention, signaling the importance of the unfolding scene and creating a sense of anticipation. The depiction of angels moving and interacting with one another ("went forth," "went out to meet him") is a form of anthropomorphism, attributing human-like actions and spatial relationships to divine beings. This allows the prophet and the reader to grasp the purposeful and dynamic nature of heavenly activity. The angels themselves function as symbolism, representing God's active involvement in human affairs and His chosen means of communicating His will. Furthermore, the verse serves as a crucial transition within the narrative of Zechariah's visions. It acts as a bridge, concluding the immediate interaction of the previous vision and setting the stage for the introduction of a new prophetic message, thus building narrative tension and foreshadowing the significant revelation about Jerusalem's future that is about to be unveiled.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Zechariah 2:3 profoundly illustrates God's active and sovereign governance over His creation, particularly His meticulous care for His people. The scene of two angels, one departing and another arriving to meet him, underscores the orchestrated nature of divine communication and the unseen spiritual reality at work behind human events. It reveals that God's plans are not haphazard but are executed with precision through His heavenly agents, who serve as His messengers and instruments. This divine choreography assures the struggling post-exilic community, and indeed all believers, that God is deeply involved in their circumstances, preparing the way for the fulfillment of His promises and the unfolding of His redemptive purposes. The presence and interaction of these angels remind us that God is always at work, even when His activity is not immediately visible to human eyes.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Zechariah 2:3 offers a powerful reminder of God's active and intricate involvement in the world and in the lives of His people. Just as He orchestrated the movements of angels to convey His message to Zechariah, so too does He work behind the scenes, often through unseen means, to accomplish His purposes in our lives and in the broader sweep of history. This verse encourages us to cultivate a deeper awareness of the spiritual realities that underpin our physical world, trusting that God is always at work, even when we cannot perceive the full scope of His divine plan. For the returned exiles, this vision would have been a profound source of comfort, assuring them that despite their struggles and the daunting task of rebuilding, God was meticulously preparing for Jerusalem's glorious restoration. For us today, it serves as an invitation to remain attentive and receptive to God's ongoing communication, whether through His Word, His Spirit, or the circumstances He orchestrates, knowing that He often prepares us for deeper insights and greater understanding of His will.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does Zechariah 2:3 encourage us about God's active involvement in our world today, even in ways we may not perceive?
  • In what ways might God be preparing us for new insights or revelations in our own lives, and how can we be more receptive to them?
  • What does the orchestrated movement of the angels in this verse teach us about the precision and intentionality of God's divine plans?

FAQ

Who is "the angel that talked with me" in Zechariah's visions?

Answer: "The angel that talked with me" is a recurring figure throughout Zechariah's night visions, serving as the prophet's divine interpreter. He is not merely a messenger but a guide who explains the meaning of each vision to Zechariah, ensuring the prophet understands and can convey God's message accurately. This angel's role is crucial for Zechariah's comprehension, as seen from the very first vision in Zechariah 1:9.

Why is "another angel" introduced in this verse, and what is the significance of their meeting?

Answer: The introduction of "another angel" signals a new phase of divine revelation and emphasizes the highly orchestrated nature of God's communication. This second angel is not merely a duplicate but a distinct messenger, carrying a specific and significant message that is about to be imparted. Their meeting is a divinely appointed rendezvous, setting the stage for the profound prophecy concerning Jerusalem's future glory and expansion, which is subsequently revealed by this second angel in Zechariah 2:4-5. It highlights God's purposeful and precise delivery of His prophetic word.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While Zechariah 2:3 focuses on angelic mediation, its deeper Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the person and work of Jesus Christ as the ultimate Messenger and the full revelation of God. In the Old Testament, angels often served as God's emissaries, bringing His word to humanity. However, Hebrews 1:1-2 declares that "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son." Jesus is the Word of God incarnate (John 1:1), the one through whom God fully and finally communicates His truth. He is the ultimate "Messenger of the Covenant" prophesied in Malachi 3:1. Furthermore, the promise of Jerusalem's future glory and divine protection, which this angelic interaction foreshadows, finds its ultimate and eternal fulfillment not merely in an earthly city, but in the New Jerusalem, the heavenly city where Christ reigns supreme (Revelation 21:1-4). Angels themselves are depicted as ministering spirits who serve Christ and His purposes (Hebrews 1:6, Revelation 5:11-12), demonstrating that all divine communication and angelic activity ultimately point to and serve the redemptive plan centered in Jesus Christ.

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Commentary on Zechariah 2 verses 1–5

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.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–5. Public domain.
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Gregory the DialogistAD 604
FORTY GOSPEL HOMILIES 34
We have learned from certain places in Scripture that some things are done by cherubim and some by seraphim. Because I have no clear proof, I am unwilling to affirm whether they do these things themselves or accomplish them through bands of angels under their authority, their names, which are greater, being used because the things are done on their authority. But I am certain of this, that to carry out some duty from on high some spirits send others. The prophet Zechariah is our witness: “See,” he says, “the angel who talked with me came forward, and another angel came forward to meet him and said to him, ‘Run and speak to that boy, saying, “Jerusalem shall be inhabited without a wall.” ’ ” When one angel says to another, “Run and speak,” there is no doubt that one is sending the other. The lesser ranks are sent; the greater ones do the sending.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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