Zechariah 4:8

KJV

Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,

KJV (with Strong's)

Moreover the word {H1697} of the LORD {H3068} came unto me, saying {H559},

Complete Jewish Bible

This message from ADONAI came to me:

Berean Standard Bible

Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying,

American Standard Version

Moreover the word of Jehovah came unto me, saying,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 4:8 serves as a crucial transitional and authoritative declaration within the prophet's fourth vision, signaling a renewed and direct divine communication from the LORD. This concise verse functions as a prophetic formula, emphasizing that the subsequent message is not of human origin but a direct, authoritative revelation from God, thus reinforcing the divine authenticity and imperative nature of the encouragement and instruction about to be delivered to Zerubbabel and the people of Judah regarding the rebuilding of the Temple.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the profound and often-quoted declaration in [Zechariah 4:6](/zechariah/4-6 "Zechariah 4:6 - Not by Might, Nor by Power"), which states, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts." This earlier message was directed at Zerubbabel, the governor overseeing the challenging task of rebuilding the Second Temple in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The broader context is Zechariah's fourth vision (found in [Zechariah 4:1-14](/zechariah/4-1-14 "Zechariah 4:1-14 - The Vision of the Lampstand and Olive Trees")), which depicts a golden lampstand and two olive trees, symbolizing God's enduring presence, the anointing upon Zerubbabel (the political leader) and Joshua (the High Priest), and the divine enablement for their work. Zechariah 4:8 acts as a formal re-introduction to a specific divine oracle, reinforcing that the words to follow are a direct, authoritative pronouncement from God Himself, building upon the assurance already given and preparing the audience for further, vital instruction concerning the completion of the Temple.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Zechariah prophesied during the critical post-exilic period, approximately 520-518 BC, alongside Haggai. The Jewish exiles had returned to Judah from Babylon, but the task of rebuilding the Temple, which had lain in ruins for decades, was fraught with challenges. They faced internal discouragement, economic hardship, and external opposition from surrounding peoples (e.g., [Ezra 4:1-5](/ezra/4-1-5 "Ezra 4:1-5 - Opposition to Rebuilding the Temple")). In this environment of despondency and delay, the prophets Zechariah and Haggai were raised up by God to spur the people and their leaders, Zerubbabel and Joshua, to resume and complete the Temple construction. The phrase "the word of the LORD came unto me" was a standard, authoritative prophetic formula in ancient Israel, understood by the audience to signify a direct, undeniable communication from Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. It served to validate the prophet's message and underscore its divine origin, demanding attention and obedience from a people prone to doubt and weariness.
* **Key Themes:** Zechariah 4:8 powerfully contributes to several key themes within the book and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Revelation and Authority**. The repeated prophetic formula "the word of the LORD came unto me" affirms that God is a speaking God who actively engages with His people, revealing His will, plans, and purposes. This declaration establishes the absolute divine authenticity of Zechariah's prophecy, assuring both the prophet and his audience that these are not mere human thoughts or political strategies, but God's direct and authoritative pronouncements. Secondly, it highlights **God's Initiative and Empowerment for His Work**. By reiterating His word, God signals His ongoing commitment to the Temple's completion and His intention to empower Zerubbabel and Joshua for this task, despite the daunting obstacles. This aligns with the preceding message of divine enablement, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit" ([Zechariah 4:6](/zechariah/4-6 "Zechariah 4:6 - God's Spirit Empowers")). Finally, the verse subtly reinforces the theme of **Covenant Faithfulness**. Even after the exile, God remains faithful to His covenant people, actively communicating with them, guiding their restoration, and ensuring the continuation of His redemptive plan through the re-establishment of His dwelling place among them.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **word (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** (H1697) From the root "dabar," meaning "to speak." This term is rich in meaning, encompassing not just spoken utterances but also matters, affairs, things, and deeds. In a prophetic context, as here, _dâbâr_ signifies a divine utterance that is active, powerful, and effective, carrying the full weight of God's authority and intention. It's not merely information but a living, dynamic communication that accomplishes God's purposes.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** (H3068) This is the sacred, covenantal name of God, often rendered "LORD" in English Bibles (Yahweh or Jehovah). Derived from the verb "to be," it signifies God as the self-existent, eternal, and unchanging One who keeps His promises. The use of _Yᵉhôvâh_ emphasizes that the word coming to Zechariah is from the personal, sovereign God who is intimately involved in the history and destiny of His people, and who is utterly dependable in His declarations.
* **saying (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** (H559) A primitive root meaning "to say," used with great latitude to encompass speaking, answering, appointing, commanding, declaring, and intending. In this context, it indicates that the "word of the LORD" is not a passive thought but an active, verbal communication, a direct address that conveys a specific message. It points to the forthcoming content as a direct quote or summary of God's own words.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Moreover the word of the LORD":** This opening phrase functions as a solemn and authoritative introduction, indicating that the following message is a direct, divine revelation. The Hebrew conjunction "Moreover" (וַיְהִי _wayhî_) often marks a continuation or a fresh unfolding of events or divine speech, emphasizing that this is a new, distinct, yet connected, segment of God's communication within the overall prophetic vision. It immediately establishes the divine origin and supreme authority of what is about to be revealed.
* **"came unto me":** This clause highlights the personal and direct nature of the revelation to Zechariah. It signifies that the prophet is not merely speculating or interpreting events, but is receiving a specific, undeniable message directly from God. This phrase validates Zechariah's role as God's chosen messenger and mouthpiece, underscoring the authenticity and reliability of his prophecy. It implies an intimate encounter between the divine and the human, where God chooses to communicate His will to His servant for the benefit of His people.
* **"saying,":** This final word acts as a direct indicator that the divine communication is about to be quoted or summarized. It sets the stage for the specific content of the message that follows in the subsequent verses. It emphasizes that the "word of the LORD" is not merely an impression or a general sense, but a clear, articulate utterance, a spoken message from God that Zechariah is commanded to deliver.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 4:8 is a masterclass in **Prophetic Formula**, a standard literary device used throughout the Old Testament to authenticate divine messages. The phrase "Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying," is a classic example, immediately signaling to the audience that the subsequent words are not human invention but direct, authoritative revelation from God. This formula establishes the prophet's **Divine Authority** as a legitimate messenger, ensuring that the message carries the weight of God's own voice. Furthermore, the verse acts as a **Narrative Transition**, marking a shift from the general vision description or previous divine pronouncements to a specific, detailed instruction or prophecy. It serves to re-orient the reader and emphasize the importance and distinctness of the forthcoming message within the broader prophetic discourse.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 4:8, though brief, carries profound theological weight by affirming the core biblical truth that God is a speaking God. His communication is not arbitrary but purposeful, designed to reveal His character, His will, and His redemptive plan. This verse underscores the absolute authority and reliability of divine revelation, reminding us that when God speaks, His word is living, powerful, and effective, always accomplishing what He intends. It highlights God's active involvement in human history and His unwavering commitment to His covenant promises, even in times of national weakness and discouragement. The repetition of this prophetic formula throughout Scripture emphasizes the consistent nature of God's communication and the foundational importance of His revealed word for guiding His people through all circumstances.

* [Jeremiah 1:1-2](/jeremiah/1-1-2 "Jeremiah 1:1-2 - Jeremiah's Prophetic Call") - "The words of Jeremiah the son of Hilkiah... To whom the word of the LORD came in the days of Josiah..."
* [Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-2 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Speaks Through His Son") - "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..."
* [2 Timothy 3:16](/2_timothy/3-16 "2 Timothy 3:16 - All Scripture is God-breathed") - "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness..."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 4:8 serves as a potent reminder that our God is not silent, distant, or indifferent. He is a God who speaks, and His word is the ultimate source of truth, guidance, and encouragement for our lives. Just as Zechariah's audience needed to hear a fresh word from the LORD to press on with the daunting task of rebuilding, we too need to continually tune our hearts to God's voice. This verse challenges us to recognize the Bible as the authoritative "word of the LORD" for us today, not merely a collection of ancient texts, but a living and active revelation that demands our attention, faith, and obedience. It encourages us to approach Scripture with reverence, knowing that we are encountering the very thoughts and purposes of the Almighty God, who promises to empower us by His Spirit to accomplish the work He has called us to, just as He empowered Zerubbabel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you waiting for a clear "word of the LORD" to guide your next steps?**
* **How does recognizing the divine authority of Scripture impact your approach to reading and obeying God's Word?**
* **What specific "work" has God called you to that feels daunting, and how can the truth of His speaking empower you to persevere?**

### FAQ
**Why is this short verse, "Moreover the word of the LORD came unto me, saying," considered so important?**

Answer: This seemingly simple verse is profoundly important because it acts as a critical theological and literary marker. The phrase "the word of the LORD came unto me" is a classic prophetic formula, used hundreds of times throughout the Old Testament (e.g., [Jeremiah 1:1-2](/jeremiah/1-1-2 "Jeremiah 1:1-2 - Jeremiah's Prophetic Call"), [Ezekiel 1:3](/ezekiel/1-3 "Ezekiel 1:3 - Ezekiel's Call")). Its presence immediately signals that the message which follows is not the prophet's own opinion, speculation, or dream, but a direct, authoritative, and divinely inspired communication from God Himself. In the context of Zechariah 4, it re-emphasizes the divine origin of the encouragement given to Zerubbabel regarding the Temple's rebuilding, reinforcing the truth that God is actively involved and will ensure the completion of His purposes, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit" ([Zechariah 4:6](/zechariah/4-6 "Zechariah 4:6 - God's Spirit Empowers")). It validates Zechariah's prophetic authority and assures the audience of the message's absolute reliability and imperative nature.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Zechariah 4:8 speaks of the "word of the LORD" coming to a prophet in the Old Testament, its ultimate fulfillment and deepest significance are found in the person of Jesus Christ. The "word of the LORD" that came to Zechariah was a specific, spoken message, but in the New Testament, we learn that God's ultimate and most complete "Word" is His Son. [John 1:1-3](/john/1-1-3 "John 1:1-3 - The Word Was God") declares, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made." This divine Word, who was God, became flesh and dwelt among us ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), revealing God perfectly. The author of [Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-2 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Speaks Through His Son") beautifully summarizes this progression: "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." Thus, every instance of "the word of the LORD" coming to a prophet foreshadowed the coming of the living Word, Jesus Christ, who is the full and final revelation of God, the one through whom God truly speaks and accomplishes His redemptive purposes for all humanity. He is the faithful and true "Word of God" ([Revelation 19:13](/revelation/19-13 "Revelation 19:13 - Jesus, the Word of God")) who ensures the completion of God's spiritual temple, the Church.

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.