Zechariah 3:10

KJV

In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, shall ye call every man his neighbour under the vine and under the fig tree.

KJV (with Strong's)

In that day {H3117}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}, shall ye call {H7121} every man {H376} his neighbour {H7453} under the vine {H1612} and under the fig tree {H8384}.

Complete Jewish Bible

When that time comes,' says ADONAI-Tzva'ot, 'you will all invite each other to join you under your vines and fig trees.'"

Berean Standard Bible

On that day, declares the LORD of Hosts, you will each invite your neighbor to sit under your own vine and fig tree.’”

American Standard Version

In that day, saith Jehovah of hosts, shall ye invite every man his neighbor under the vine and under the fig-tree.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 3:10 concludes a powerful vision of divine cleansing and restoration for Joshua the High Priest, offering a profound promise of future peace, security, and communal flourishing. It depicts an idyllic era, declared by the sovereign God, where every individual will live in such tranquil abundance that they can freely invite their neighbors to share in the fruits of their labor, symbolizing a society perfected by God's grace and presence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the climactic promise following the central vision of Zechariah 3, which focuses on the restoration of Joshua the High Priest. In this vision, Joshua, standing before the Angel of the LORD and Satan, is stripped of his "filthy garments"—symbolizing the sin and guilt of Israel, particularly in their post-exilic state—and re-clothed in "pure vestments" and a "clean turban," signifying divine forgiveness, justification, and reinstatement to his priestly office. This act of cleansing is immediately followed by the declaration concerning the coming of "the Branch," a clear Messianic title, who will remove the iniquity of the land in "one day" [Zechariah 3:8-9](/zechariah/3-8-9 "Zechariah 3:8-9 - The Branch and the Stone"). Thus, Zechariah 3:10 is not an isolated promise but the anticipated outcome and blessed reality that flows directly from God's work of cleansing, the establishment of the Branch, and the ultimate removal of sin. It describes the tangible peace and fellowship that will characterize the Messianic age inaugurated by this divine intervention.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Zechariah prophesied to the Jewish community that had returned from Babylonian exile, a people facing immense challenges in rebuilding the Temple and re-establishing their national and spiritual identity. They were discouraged, vulnerable, and often in conflict. The imagery of "every man his neighbour under the vine and under the fig tree" was a powerful and deeply resonant idiom in ancient Israel, signifying a time of profound peace, prosperity, and security. It evoked an era when each family lived safely on their own land, enjoying the fruits of their labor without fear of invasion, oppression, or scarcity. This ideal state was often contrasted with periods of war, famine, or exile. For the post-exilic community, this promise would have been a profound source of hope, painting a picture of a future far removed from their present struggles, reminiscent of the golden age of Solomon's reign [1 Kings 4:25](/1_kings/4-25 "1 Kings 4:25 - Solomon's Reign of Peace") and echoing broader prophetic hopes for a restored Israel [Micah 4:4](/micah/4-4 "Micah 4:4 - Peace Under Vine and Fig Tree").
* **Key Themes:** Zechariah 3:10 encapsulates several crucial theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Restoration and Blessing**, portraying a future where God's people experience complete peace and abundance after a period of judgment and cleansing. This restoration is not merely material but also relational, fostering **Communal Harmony and Hospitality**, as neighbors freely invite one another to share their prosperity, a stark contrast to the strife and fear often associated with times of distress. Secondly, the phrase "In that day" is a significant prophetic marker, pointing to an **Eschatological Hope** and the definitive arrival of God's kingdom, often directly linked to the **Messianic Age**. This era is initiated by the coming of "the Branch" [Zechariah 3:8](/zechariah/3-8 "Zechariah 3:8 - The Branch"), who will bring about ultimate peace and justice. Finally, the declaration "saith the LORD of hosts" underscores the **Sovereignty and Certainty of God's Promises**. The title "LORD of hosts" (YHWH Sabaoth) emphasizes God's omnipotence and His command over all creation, ensuring the infallible fulfillment of His prophetic word, providing a firm foundation for the community's hope amidst their present difficulties.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **day (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** From an unused root meaning "to be hot," this word refers to a day, either literal (sunrise to sunset) or figurative (a space of time defined by an associated term). In prophetic contexts, as in "In that day," it often signifies a specific, decisive, and often eschatological period of divine intervention, judgment, and salvation, marking a pivotal moment in God's redemptive plan.
* **vine (Hebrew, _gephen'_):** Derived from an unused root meaning "to bend," this term specifically denotes a vine, particularly a grape vine. In the context of "under the vine and under the fig tree," it represents the agricultural prosperity, personal security, and peace that characterized an ideal, blessed existence in ancient Israel.
* **LORD of hosts (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh tsâbâʼ'_):** This majestic divine title combines YHWH (Jehovah), the self-existent, eternal God, with "hosts" (tsâbâʼ), referring to a mass of persons, especially an organized army, or figuratively, the heavenly armies and cosmic forces. The combination emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty, omnipotence, and His authoritative command over all creation, assuring the certainty and power behind His prophetic declarations.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"In that day, saith the LORD of hosts":** This opening clause sets the eschatological and authoritative tone of the promise. "In that day" is a common prophetic idiom pointing to a future, decisive period of divine action, often the Messianic age or the culmination of God's redemptive plan. "Saith the LORD of hosts" underscores the divine origin and absolute certainty of the promise. The title "LORD of hosts" emphasizes God's supreme power and authority over all creation, guaranteeing the fulfillment of His word.
* **"shall ye call every man his neighbour":** This phrase depicts a scene of profound communal harmony, hospitality, and security. The act of "calling" or inviting implies open fellowship and a lack of fear or suspicion. In a time of peace and abundance, people are free to share their blessings and engage in friendly interaction with those around them, fostering a thriving, interconnected community.
* **"under the vine and under the fig tree":** This is a well-known biblical idiom for a state of perfect peace, prosperity, and security. The vine and fig tree were staple crops in ancient Israel, representing the fruits of one's labor and the stability of one's dwelling. To sit "under" them signifies dwelling safely on one's own property, free from the threat of war, invasion, or economic hardship, enjoying the abundance of God's blessings in undisturbed tranquility.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 3:10 masterfully employs several **Literary Devices** to convey its message of hope and future blessing. The most prominent is **Idiom**, specifically the phrase "under the vine and under the fig tree." This is not to be taken literally as merely sitting under trees, but rather as a widely understood cultural shorthand for a time of profound peace, prosperity, and security, where individuals enjoy the fruits of their labor in safety and abundance. This idiom functions as powerful **Symbolism**, where the vine and fig tree symbolize the blessings of a settled, productive, and undisturbed life. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Prophetic Language** through the phrase "In that day," which serves as a temporal marker pointing to a future, divinely appointed era, often the Messianic age. The declaration "saith the LORD of hosts" is an example of an **Attestation Formula**, lending immense authority and certainty to the prophecy by invoking God's sovereign and omnipotent character.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 3:10 stands as a testament to God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people and His ultimate plan for human flourishing. It speaks to a profound theological truth: true peace and security are not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of God's shalom—a holistic well-being that encompasses spiritual, social, and material dimensions. This verse connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's intention to establish a kingdom of righteousness and peace, where His people live in harmonious fellowship, enjoying the full measure of His blessings. It anticipates a time when the brokenness of sin and its consequences are fully redressed, leading to an idyllic existence marked by open hospitality and shared abundance, all under the sovereign rule of the "LORD of hosts."

* [Micah 4:4](/micah/4-4 "Micah 4:4 - Universal Peace and Security")
* [1 Kings 4:25](/1_kings/4-25 "1 Kings 4:25 - Peace During Solomon's Reign")
* [Isaiah 2:4](/isaiah/2-4 "Isaiah 2:4 - Swords into Plowshares")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 3:10 offers a comforting and inspiring vision that transcends its historical context, providing profound hope for believers today. It reminds us that despite present struggles, God's ultimate plan is for peace, security, and harmonious community. This verse calls us to cultivate an expectant hope in God's future kingdom, knowing that the "LORD of hosts" is faithful to His promises. While we await the full realization of this peace, we are called to embody its principles now. We can strive to be agents of peace in our own spheres, extending hospitality, fostering genuine fellowship with our neighbors, and sharing the blessings God has given us. This verse encourages us to live with a forward-looking faith, trusting that the same God who promised restoration to ancient Israel will bring ultimate peace through His Son, Jesus Christ, transforming our relationships and our world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the promise of future peace and security in Zechariah 3:10 shape your perspective on current anxieties or conflicts?**
* **In what practical ways can you "call every man his neighbour" and foster a spirit of hospitality and community in your own life today?**
* **What does "living under the vine and fig tree" mean for you personally in terms of spiritual peace and contentment?**
* **How does the certainty of God's promises, declared by the "LORD of hosts," strengthen your faith and hope?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the phrase "under the vine and under the fig tree"?**

Answer: The phrase "under the vine and under the fig tree" is a deeply symbolic and widely recognized idiom in the Old Testament. It signifies a time of profound peace, prosperity, and security. In ancient Israel, the vine and fig tree were common agricultural staples, representing the fruits of one's labor and the stability of one's home. To sit "under" them implied dwelling safely on one's own property, free from the threats of war, invasion, or economic hardship. It paints a picture of undisturbed tranquility, where individuals can enjoy the abundance of their land and live in harmony with their neighbors. This imagery is notably found in descriptions of King Solomon's peaceful reign [1 Kings 4:25](/1_kings/4-25 "1 Kings 4:25 - Solomon's Reign of Peace") and is a recurring motif in prophetic visions of the Messianic age [Micah 4:4](/micah/4-4 "Micah 4:4 - Universal Peace and Security").

**What does "In that day" refer to in this prophecy?**

Answer: "In that day" (Hebrew: *bayyom hahu*) is a common and crucial prophetic marker throughout the Old Testament. It typically refers to a future, definitive period of divine intervention. While its exact timing can vary depending on the context, it often points to the eschatological age—the time when God's ultimate purposes for salvation, judgment, and the establishment of His kingdom will be fully realized. In Zechariah 3, following the vision of Joshua's cleansing and the promise of "the Branch" [Zechariah 3:8](/zechariah/3-8 "Zechariah 3:8 - The Branch"), "that day" strongly points to the Messianic era, when perfect peace, justice, and fellowship will prevail under God's righteous rule. It signifies a pivotal moment in redemptive history, initiated by God's decisive action.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 3:10 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The preceding verses in Zechariah 3 introduce "the Branch" [Zechariah 3:8](/zechariah/3-8 "Zechariah 3:8 - The Branch"), a clear Messianic title that points directly to Jesus, who is the righteous Branch of David's line [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Branch from Jesse's Root"). The cleansing of Joshua the High Priest foreshadows Christ's work as our great High Priest, who, through His perfect sacrifice, removes the "iniquity of the land" [Zechariah 3:9](/zechariah/3-9 "Zechariah 3:9 - Removal of Iniquity") and cleanses His people from sin, allowing them to stand righteous before God. The promise of peace "under the vine and under the fig tree" is realized in the spiritual peace that Christ offers to His followers, a peace that surpasses understanding [Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God") and transcends the world's turmoil [John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Christ's Gift of Peace"). Furthermore, the communal harmony of "every man his neighbour" is fulfilled in the new community of believers, the Church, where barriers are broken down and fellowship is established in Christ [Ephesians 2:14-19](/ephesians/2-14-19 "Ephesians 2:14-19 - Christ Our Peace"). Ultimately, the full, cosmic realization of this peace awaits Christ's return and the establishment of His eternal kingdom, where He will reign as the Prince of Peace, bringing perfect security and fellowship to all who dwell in His presence [Revelation 21:3-4](/revelation/21-3-4 "Revelation 21:3-4 - God Dwells with His People").

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

1 Kings 4:25

And Judah and Israel dwelt safely, every man under his vine and under his fig tree, from Dan even to Beersheba, all the days of Solomon.

Micah 4:4

But they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree; and none shall make [them] afraid: for the mouth of the LORD of hosts hath spoken [it].

Hosea 2:18

And in that day will I make a covenant for them with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven, and [with] the creeping things of the ground: and I will break the bow and the sword and the battle out of the earth, and will make them to lie down safely.

Isaiah 36:16

Hearken not to Hezekiah: for thus saith the king of Assyria, Make [an agreement] with me [by] a present, and come out to me: and eat ye every one of his vine, and every one of his fig tree, and drink ye every one the waters of his own cistern;

Zechariah 2:11

And many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and shall be my people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto thee.

John 1:45

Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.

John 1:48

Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee.