Zechariah 7:4

KJV

Then came the word of the LORD of hosts unto me, saying,

KJV (with Strong's)

Then came the word {H1697} of the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635} unto me, saying {H559},

Complete Jewish Bible

It was then that this message came to me from ADONAI-Tzva'ot:

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

Then came the word of Jehovah of hosts unto me, saying,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 7:4 serves as a crucial transitional verse, marking the definitive moment when the prophet Zechariah receives a direct, authoritative message from the Almighty. It shifts the narrative from the inquiry of a delegation from Bethel regarding their fasting practices to God's immediate and comprehensive response, underscoring the divine origin and supreme authority of the revelation that is about to unfold. This verse functions as a solemn preamble, preparing the audience for a profound encounter with the very word of the sovereign LORD.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of [Zechariah 7](/zechariah/7 "Zechariah 7 - The Question of Fasting"), which opens with a delegation from Bethel arriving in Jerusalem in the fourth year of King Darius's reign. Their purpose is to inquire of the priests and prophets whether they should continue observing the traditional fasts, specifically the fast of the fifth month, which commemorated the destruction of the Temple. [Zechariah 7:1-3](/zechariah/7-1-3 "Zechariah 7:1-3 - The Delegation from Bethel") details this inquiry. Zechariah 7:4 then acts as a pivotal turning point, signaling that the human inquiry has been heard and that the divine answer is forthcoming. It introduces God's direct address, which extends through [Zechariah 7:5-14](/zechariah/7-5-14 "Zechariah 7:5-14 - God's Rebuke and Call to Justice") and into [Zechariah 8](/zechariah/8 "Zechariah 8 - Promises of Restoration"), transforming the specific question about fasting into a broader discourse on true worship, justice, and future restoration.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Zechariah 7 occur approximately two years after the initial return of Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity, as detailed in [Ezra 3:1-7](/ezra/3-1-7 "Ezra 3:1-7 - Return and Altar Rebuilding"). The Temple rebuilding project, though begun, had faced significant delays and opposition, as recounted in [Ezra 4](/ezra/4 "Ezra 4 - Opposition to Rebuilding"). The fasts in question (especially the fifth month, commemorating the destruction of the Temple in [2 Kings 25:8-10](/2_kings/25-8-10 "2 Kings 25:8-10 - Destruction of Jerusalem")) were deeply ingrained cultural and religious practices, observed during the seventy years of exile as expressions of mourning and repentance. The delegation's question reflects a genuine concern among the post-exilic community: now that they were back in the land and the Temple was being rebuilt, should these mournful fasts continue, or had their purpose been fulfilled? This highlights the people's desire for divine guidance on their religious observances in a new era.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully introduces several overarching themes prevalent in Zechariah and prophetic literature. Firstly, it emphasizes **Divine Communication**, asserting that God is not silent but actively intervenes in human affairs, directly addressing the concerns of His people. The phrase "the word of the LORD of hosts came unto me" highlights the **Prophetic Authority** of Zechariah, establishing his role as a divinely appointed messenger whose words carry the full weight of God's own utterance. This underscores the sacredness and infallibility of the message that follows. Furthermore, it sets a tone of **Preparation for Revelation**, signaling to the audience that what is about to be revealed is of profound importance, demanding their careful attention and obedience. This divine preamble ensures that the subsequent message is received not as human counsel but as the authoritative decree of the sovereign God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **word (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** (H1697) This term is much broader than a mere utterance; it encompasses a "matter," "thing," "affair," "decree," or "purpose." In this context, it signifies a divine communication that is active, authoritative, and carries the weight of God's will and intention. It is not just information but a living, potent declaration.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** (H3068) This is the sacred covenant name of God, often rendered "Jehovah" or "Yahweh." It speaks to God's self-existence, eternal nature, and His covenant faithfulness to Israel. When used, it emphasizes the personal, relational, and unchanging character of the God who speaks.
* **hosts (Hebrew, _tsâbâʼ'_):** (H6635) Meaning "armies" or "masses," this term, when conjoined with "LORD" (YHWH Sabaoth), emphasizes God's omnipotence and sovereignty over all creation—celestial armies, earthly powers, and the entire universe. The "LORD of hosts" is the commander of all forces, signifying His absolute authority and ability to execute His will without hindrance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then came the word":** This opening phrase signifies an immediate, decisive, and divinely initiated action. The "word" is personified as something that actively "comes," indicating its dynamic nature and the urgency of its arrival. It marks a clear transition from human inquiry to divine response.
* **"of the LORD of hosts":** This identifies the supreme source and authority of the message. The title "LORD of hosts" (YHWH Sabaoth) is a majestic and powerful designation for God, emphasizing His absolute sovereignty, His control over all creation, and His irresistible power. It ensures that the message is understood as emanating from the highest possible authority.
* **"unto me":** This clarifies the recipient of the divine message: the prophet Zechariah. It highlights his role as God's chosen messenger, through whom the divine will is communicated to the people. This personal address underscores the authenticity and directness of the revelation.
* **"saying":** This simple yet crucial word indicates that what follows is a direct quotation of the divine utterance. It prepares the audience for the specific content of God's message, signaling that they are about to hear the very words of the Almighty.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 7:4 employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is the **Prophetic Formula**, specifically a "word of the LORD" formula, which serves as a solemn **Preamble** to a divine oracle. This formula, common throughout prophetic books, immediately establishes the divine origin and absolute authority of the message that follows, distinguishing it from human opinion or counsel. The use of the majestic title "**LORD of hosts**" (YHWH Sabaoth) is a form of **Divine Epithet** that enhances the gravitas and power of the speaker, emphasizing God's omnipotence and universal dominion. This title functions as a form of **Emphasis**, drawing the reader's attention to the unparalleled authority of the one who is about to speak, reinforcing the seriousness and infallibility of the revelation. The concise nature of the statement also contributes to its impact, creating a sense of immediate and direct communication.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly underscores the biblical truth that God is a speaking God, actively engaged with His creation and particularly with His covenant people. The "word of the LORD" is not merely a concept but a dynamic, active force that initiates, commands, and reveals. This divine communication is the foundation of all true religion and serves as the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance for humanity. The prophet's role is not to invent truth but to faithfully transmit this divine word, making him a crucial conduit for God's will. The authority of the message is intrinsically tied to the identity of the speaker, the "LORD of hosts," whose very nature guarantees the truthfulness and power of His every utterance.

* [Amos 3:7](/amos/3-7 "Amos 3:7 - God Reveals His Secrets to Prophets")
* [Jeremiah 1:9](/jeremiah/1-9 "Jeremiah 1:9 - God Puts His Words in Jeremiah's Mouth")
* [Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1-2 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Speaks Through Prophets and Son")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 7:4 serves as a timeless reminder of the profound privilege and responsibility we have in encountering God's Word. Just as the ancient delegation sought a direct word from God, and Zechariah received it, so too do we have access to the living and authoritative voice of the "LORD of hosts" through the Holy Scriptures. This verse calls us to approach the Bible not as a mere historical document or human wisdom, but as the very breath of God, carrying His eternal truth and sovereign will. Our engagement with Scripture should be marked by reverence, attentive listening, and a humble desire to understand and obey. In a world filled with competing voices and confusing counsel, the divine origin and unwavering authority of God's Word offer an anchor for our souls, providing clear direction for our lives and an unwavering foundation for our faith. We are invited to seek His guidance in all matters, trusting that His word is sufficient for every need.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does recognizing the divine origin of Scripture (as "the word of the LORD of hosts") impact your approach to reading and studying the Bible?**
* **In what areas of your life are you currently seeking a "word from the LORD," and how are you positioning yourself to hear it?**
* **What practical steps can you take to cultivate a deeper reverence and attentiveness to God's voice through His written Word?**

### FAQ

**Why is the title "LORD of hosts" (YHWH Sabaoth) so significant in this verse?**

Answer: The title "LORD of hosts" (Hebrew: *YHWH Sabaoth*) is profoundly significant because it emphasizes the absolute sovereignty, omnipotence, and universal dominion of God. "YHWH" is God's personal, covenant name, signifying His eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. "Sabaoth" means "armies" or "hosts," referring to God's command over all celestial beings, earthly powers, and the entire created order. When "the word of the LORD of hosts" comes, it signifies that the message originates from the supreme Commander of the universe, whose will cannot be thwarted and whose word carries ultimate authority and irresistible power. This title elevates the message from a mere prophetic utterance to an unchallengeable divine decree, demanding immediate and serious attention from all who hear it, as seen in other prophetic declarations like [Isaiah 6:3](/isaiah/6-3 "Isaiah 6:3 - Holy, Holy, Holy is the LORD of Hosts").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 7:4, with its declaration that "the word of the LORD of hosts came unto me, saying," beautifully foreshadows the ultimate and most complete revelation of God's Word in the person of Jesus Christ. While God spoke through prophets in various ways and at different times, [Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1-2 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Speaks Through His Son") declares that "in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son." Jesus is not merely a messenger of God's word; He *is* the Word, the very embodiment of divine revelation. [John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God") proclaims, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." The active, authoritative "word" that came to Zechariah finds its ultimate and personal fulfillment in the incarnate Christ, who perfectly reveals the Father and executes His will. Jesus, as the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") and the [King of kings](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings"), is the "LORD of hosts" made manifest, whose words are eternal life and whose authority is absolute. His coming marks the culmination of God's speaking to humanity, offering not just a message, but the very presence of God Himself.

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

Isaiah 10:16

Therefore shall the Lord, the Lord of hosts, send among his fat ones leanness; and under his glory he shall kindle a burning like the burning of a fire.