Zechariah 6:13

KJV

Even he shall build the temple of the LORD; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.

KJV (with Strong's)

Even he shall build {H1129} the temple {H1964} of the LORD {H3068}; and he shall bear {H5375} the glory {H1935}, and shall sit {H3427} and rule {H4910} upon his throne {H3678}; and he shall be a priest {H3548} upon his throne {H3678}: and the counsel {H6098} of peace {H7965} shall be between them both {H8147}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yes, he will rebuild the temple of ADONAI; and he will take up royal splendor, sitting and ruling from his throne. There will be a cohen before his throne; and they will accept each other's advice in complete harmony.

Berean Standard Bible

Yes, He will build the temple of the LORD; He will be clothed in splendor and will sit on His throne and rule. And He will be a priest on His throne, and there will be peaceful counsel between the two.’

American Standard Version

even he shall build the temple of Jehovah; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne; and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 6:13 unveils a profound Messianic prophecy, declaring that a singular figure, "The Branch," will not only undertake the monumental task of building the Lord's temple but will also bear unparalleled glory. This individual is uniquely portrayed as simultaneously sitting and ruling upon a throne as King, and serving as a priest upon that very same throne, culminating in a perfect "counsel of peace" between these distinct, yet unified, offices.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 6:13 concludes a significant prophetic vision within the book of Zechariah, specifically the eighth and final vision of the four chariots (Zechariah 6:1-8), followed by a symbolic act (Zechariah 6:9-15). The immediate preceding verses describe Zechariah being commanded to take silver and gold from returning exiles, make crowns, and place them on the head of Joshua, the high priest. This act, however, is immediately qualified by a declaration that the crowns are for "The BRANCH" (Zechariah 6:12), a future figure who will truly build the temple. This sets up a deliberate contrast and forward-looking perspective, shifting from the contemporary, physical rebuilding efforts under Zerubbabel and Joshua to a future, ultimate builder and ruler. The verse thus serves as a climactic revelation, linking the present post-exilic restoration to a grander, eschatological fulfillment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy is set in the post-exilic period, around 520-518 BC, when the Jewish people had returned from Babylonian captivity to a desolate Jerusalem. Their primary task was the rebuilding of the Second Temple, a project fraught with challenges and discouragement. Leadership was divided between Zerubbabel, the governor (from the Davidic line, representing kingship), and Joshua, the High Priest (from the Levitical line, representing priesthood). In ancient Israel, the roles of king and priest were strictly separated by tribal lineage and function, often with severe consequences for those who blurred these lines (e.g., King Uzziah in [2 Chronicles 26:16-21](/2_chronicles/26-16-21 "2 Chronicles 26:16-21 - Uzziah's Presumption")). Zechariah 6:13, by prophesying a single individual who would hold both offices simultaneously and effectively, presented a radical departure from established norms, pointing to a unique, divinely appointed figure.
* **Key Themes:** This verse is a nexus for several profound theological themes. Foremost is **Messianic Prophecy**, identifying "The Branch" as the coming Messiah, a title also used in [Zechariah 3:8](/zechariah/3-8 "Zechariah 3:8 - The Branch, a Messianic Prophecy") and elsewhere (e.g., [Isaiah 4:2](/isaiah/4-2 "Isaiah 4:2 - The Branch of the Lord")). A central theme is the **Dual Role of King and Priest**, an unprecedented combination in Israelite history, foreshadowed only by the enigmatic figure of Melchizedek ([Genesis 14:18-20](/genesis/14-18-20 "Genesis 14:18-20 - Melchizedek, King of Salem and Priest of God Most High")). The prophecy of "he shall build the temple of the LORD" introduces the theme of **Spiritual Temple Building**, transcending the physical structure of Zerubbabel's temple to refer to a spiritual house, the community of God's people. The phrase "he shall bear the glory" emphasizes the **Divine Glory and Authority** of this figure, indicating that all honor and majesty for this monumental work will rest upon Him. Finally, "the counsel of peace shall be between them both" highlights the theme of **Divine Peace and Reconciliation**, signifying the perfect harmony and ultimate well-being that this King-Priest will establish through His unified work.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Build (Hebrew, _bânâh'_):** H1129, a primitive root meaning "to build" literally and figuratively. It encompasses not just physical construction but also establishing, repairing, and even obtaining children. In Zechariah 6:13, it signifies the Messiah's foundational and establishing work, not merely of a physical structure but of a spiritual reality—the community of God's people.
* **Glory (Hebrew, _hôwd'_):** H1935, from an unused root, denoting "grandeur," "imposing form and appearance," "beauty," "excellency," "honor," or "majesty." This word emphasizes the inherent splendor and honor that belongs to the Messiah, not merely as an external reward but as an intrinsic quality of His being and work. He does not just receive glory; He embodies it and bears it forth.
* **Priest (Hebrew, _kôhên'_):** H3548, an active participle meaning "one officiating," specifically a priest. It refers to an individual authorized to mediate between God and humanity, offering sacrifices and interceding. The unique aspect here is the placement of the priest "upon his throne," indicating a priestly function united with royal authority, a revolutionary concept for the Israelite understanding of these distinct offices.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Even he shall build the temple of the LORD":** This clause identifies the central action of "The Branch." While Zerubbabel was building the physical Second Temple, this prophecy points to a greater, ultimate builder. The "temple of the LORD" here transcends a mere physical edifice, symbolizing the spiritual dwelling place of God, which is the community of believers, the church. This building is not by human hands alone but by divine power through this chosen figure.
* **"and he shall bear the glory":** This signifies that the Messiah will not only accomplish this great work of building but will also be the rightful recipient and embodiment of all honor, majesty, and splendor associated with it. His work is inherently glorious, and He Himself is glorified through its completion. This points to His divine nature and supreme authority.
* **"and shall sit and rule upon his throne":** This clearly establishes the Messiah's royal authority and kingship. "Sitting upon his throne" is a classic biblical idiom for exercising sovereign power and dominion. He is the rightful King, destined to reign with absolute authority and justice over His people and creation.
* **"and he shall be a priest upon his throne":** This is the most striking and revolutionary aspect of the prophecy. It breaks the traditional Old Testament separation of the kingly and priestly offices. The Messiah will not only rule as King but will also function as a priest, performing mediatorial duties, all while seated on His royal throne. This indicates a unique, unified authority where His kingship and priesthood are inextricably linked and exercised from the same position of ultimate power.
* **"and the counsel of peace shall be between them both":** This concluding phrase speaks to the perfect harmony and divine intention behind the unified King-Priest office. "Counsel" (Hebrew: _ʻêtsâh_) implies a deliberate plan or purpose, and "peace" (Hebrew: _shâlôwm_) encompasses wholeness, well-being, reconciliation, and prosperity. The "them both" refers to the two offices—kingship and priesthood—perfectly integrated and working in concert within the one Messiah. The result of this unified, divine plan is ultimate peace, both between God and humanity, and within the redeemed community.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 6:13 is rich in **Symbolism** and **Messianic Prophecy**. The "temple of the LORD" serves as a powerful symbol, moving beyond its literal meaning to represent the spiritual community of God's people, with the Messiah as its foundation and head. The act of placing crowns on Joshua's head, only to declare them for "The Branch," is a symbolic action that points to a greater reality, a future fulfillment. The prophecy itself is a prime example of **Messianic Prophecy**, clearly identifying a future deliverer with specific, unprecedented attributes. Furthermore, the verse employs a striking **Juxtaposition** and **Paradox** by uniting the offices of King and Priest in one person and on one throne. In Old Testament thought, these roles were distinct and often held by different tribes. Their unified presence in "The Branch" creates a theological paradox that is resolved only in the person of Jesus Christ, highlighting His unique nature and comprehensive authority.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 6:13 stands as a pivotal Old Testament text, profoundly shaping our understanding of the Messiah's multifaceted identity and mission. It reveals a divine architect, "The Branch," who transcends the limitations of human institutions by simultaneously embodying the roles of King and Priest. This unified office signifies that the Messiah's reign is not merely one of political dominion but also one of spiritual intercession and reconciliation. He builds God's spiritual house, the church, not with bricks and mortar, but with living stones, establishing a kingdom characterized by divine order, justice, and ultimate peace. The "counsel of peace" underscores that this dual role is part of God's sovereign, deliberate plan to bring about complete well-being and harmony between Himself and humanity through His chosen one.

* [Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20-22 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone of the Church")
* [Hebrews 7:24](/hebrews/7-24 "Hebrews 7:24 - Christ's Unchangeable Priesthood")
* [Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - The Prince of Peace Prophecy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 6:13 offers profound comfort and direction for believers today, anchoring our hope in the comprehensive work of Jesus Christ. As the King who rules on His throne, He possesses ultimate authority over all circumstances, assuring us that His kingdom will prevail and His justice will be perfectly administered. As the Priest on His throne, He continually intercedes for us, understanding our weaknesses and providing access to God's grace. This unified authority means that our salvation is secured by a King who has the power to save and a Priest who has the compassion to mediate. We are called to be living stones in the spiritual temple He is building, participating in His work by living out His peace and reflecting His glory to a world in need. This truth invites us to trust in His sovereign rule, rely on His priestly intercession, and find our ultimate peace and purpose within His spiritual kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the dual role of King and Priest in Jesus Christ provide a deeper sense of security and peace in your life?**
* **In what ways can you actively participate in the building of God's spiritual temple, the church, in your daily life?**
* **What does it mean for you personally that Jesus "bears the glory," and how does this truth shape your worship and service?**
* **How does understanding the "counsel of peace" in Christ influence your approach to conflict and your pursuit of reconciliation?**

### FAQ
**Who is "he" in Zechariah 6:13, and how is this prophecy fulfilled?**

Answer: The "he" in Zechariah 6:13 refers to "The BRANCH," a clear Messianic title used in other Old Testament prophecies (e.g., [Zechariah 3:8](/zechariah/3-8 "Zechariah 3:8 - The Branch, a Messianic Prophecy") and [Isaiah 4:2](/isaiah/4-2 "Isaiah 4:2 - The Branch of the Lord")). This prophecy finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the one who uniquely combines the roles of King and Priest, a feat impossible under the Old Covenant, and He is the true builder of God's spiritual temple, the Church.

**What is the "temple of the LORD" that "he" builds, if Zerubbabel was building a physical temple?**

Answer: While Zerubbabel was indeed building the physical Second Temple in Zechariah's time, the prophecy in [Zechariah 6:13](/zechariah/6-13 "Zechariah 6:13 - The Branch Builds the Temple") looks beyond this immediate, physical structure to a spiritual reality. The "temple of the LORD" that "The Branch" builds refers to the new covenant community of believers, the Church. The New Testament confirms this, portraying believers as "living stones" built into a spiritual house with Christ as the chief cornerstone (e.g., [1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones in a Spiritual House") and [Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20-22 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone of the Church")). This spiritual temple is where God truly dwells among His people.

**What is the significance of "the counsel of peace shall be between them both"?**

Answer: The phrase "the counsel of peace shall be between them both" refers to the perfect harmony and divine wisdom inherent in the unified King-Priest office of the Messiah. "Them both" signifies the two distinct roles—kingship and priesthood—working in perfect concert within one individual. The "counsel of peace" (Hebrew: `etsat shalom`) indicates a divinely orchestrated plan for wholeness, well-being, and reconciliation. It means that through the Messiah's reign as King and His intercession as Priest, God's perfect plan for peace—peace with God, inner peace, and peace among people—is fully realized. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a comprehensive state of flourishing and reconciliation, established through Christ's atoning work and sovereign rule (e.g., [Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Making Peace Through the Blood of His Cross")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 6:13 is a dazzling Messianic prophecy, finding its complete and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate "Branch" (cf. [Isaiah 11:1-2](/isaiah/11-1-2 "Isaiah 11:1-2 - The Branch from Jesse's Roots")), the one uniquely appointed to build the true "temple of the LORD." While Zerubbabel built a physical structure, Jesus declared, "I will build my church" ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Jesus Builds His Church")), establishing the spiritual dwelling place of God composed of believers, with Himself as the chief cornerstone ([Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20-22 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone of the Church")). He truly "bears the glory," as witnessed by John, who saw His glory "as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us")). Jesus sits and rules "upon his throne" as the sovereign King of Kings and Lord of Lords ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")), exercising all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")). Crucially, He is also "a priest upon his throne," fulfilling the ancient foreshadowing of Melchizedek ([Hebrews 7:1-3](/hebrews/7-1-3 "Hebrews 7:1-3 - Melchizedek, King and Priest")). Unlike the Levitical priests, Jesus holds an unchangeable priesthood ([Hebrews 7:24](/hebrews/7-24 "Hebrews 7:24 - Christ's Unchangeable Priesthood")), perpetually interceding for His people from His position of royal authority ([Hebrews 4:14-16](/hebrews/4-14-16 "Hebrews 4:14-16 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")). Thus, the "counsel of peace" is perfectly realized in Him; through His atoning sacrifice and His ongoing reign, He has brought ultimate reconciliation between God and humanity, establishing a peace that surpasses all understanding ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God")).

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

Psalms 110:4

The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.

Isaiah 49:5

And now, saith the LORD that formed me from the womb [to be] his servant, to bring Jacob again to him, Though Israel be not gathered, yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the LORD, and my God shall be my strength.

Isaiah 49:6

And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.

Hebrews 3:1

¶ Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

Isaiah 11:10

¶ And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.

Isaiah 22:24

And they shall hang upon him all the glory of his father's house, the offspring and the issue, all vessels of small quantity, from the vessels of cups, even to all the vessels of flagons.

Psalms 21:5

His glory [is] great in thy salvation: honour and majesty hast thou laid upon him.