Zechariah 9:15

KJV

The LORD of hosts shall defend them; and they shall devour, and subdue with sling stones; and they shall drink, [and] make a noise as through wine; and they shall be filled like bowls, [and] as the corners of the altar.

KJV (with Strong's)

The LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635} shall defend {H1598} them; and they shall devour {H398}, and subdue {H3533} with sling {H7050} stones {H68}; and they shall drink {H8354}, and make a noise {H1993} as through wine {H3196}; and they shall be filled {H4390} like bowls {H4219}, and as the corners {H2106} of the altar {H4196}.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI-Tzva'ot will defend them; they will devour and trample the sling-stones. They will drink and roar as if they had drunk wine; they will be filled, like basins and like the corners of the altar.

Berean Standard Bible

The LORD of Hosts will shield them.They will destroy and conquer with slingstones;they will drink and roar as with wine.And they will be filled like sprinkling bowls,drenched like the corners of the altar.

American Standard Version

Jehovah of hosts will defend them; and they shall devour, and shall tread down the sling-stones; and they shall drink, and make a noise as through wine; and they shall be filled like bowls, like the corners of the altar.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 9:15 presents a powerful prophetic vision of God's active defense and the subsequent overwhelming victory and joyous abundance experienced by His people. This verse paints a vivid picture of divine intervention, where the "LORD of hosts" empowers His chosen ones to conquer their adversaries decisively, leading to a profound celebration and a state of overflowing blessing that is both complete and consecrated.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 9:15 is situated within the latter half of the book of Zechariah (chapters 9-14), often referred to as "The Burden of the Word of the LORD." This section shifts from earlier prophecies concerning the rebuilding of the Temple to future eschatological and Messianic themes. Specifically, chapter 9 begins with prophecies of judgment against surrounding nations (Zech 9:1-8), establishing God's sovereignty over all peoples. It then transitions to a glorious promise of the coming Messiah, riding on a donkey (Zech 9:9-10), and the restoration of Israel from exile (Zech 9:11-12). Verse 15, therefore, serves as a vivid description of the Lord's direct involvement in the future triumph of His people, illustrating the nature of their victory and the resulting joy, bridging the gap between the Messiah's arrival and the ultimate restoration.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Zechariah prophesied during the post-exilic period, roughly 520-518 BC, a time when the Jewish exiles had returned from Babylon to a desolate Jerusalem. They faced significant challenges, including opposition from neighboring peoples (as seen in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah) and internal discouragement. The prophecies of Zechariah were designed to offer hope, encouragement, and a renewed vision of God's faithfulness and ultimate plan for His people. The imagery of "sling stones" would have resonated deeply with the Jewish audience, recalling the iconic victory of [David over Goliath](/1_samuel/17-40-50 "1 Samuel 17:40-50 - David's Victory with a Sling"), signifying that God could use seemingly humble or weak means to achieve mighty victories. The references to "bowls" and "corners of the altar" evoke the familiar rituals and sacred spaces of the Temple, emphasizing the consecrated nature of the promised abundance and victory.
* **Key Themes:** Zechariah 9:15 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Protection**, emphasizing that the "LORD of hosts" is the ultimate defender and warrior for His people. Secondly, it highlights **Victorious Warfare and Deliverance**, portraying a decisive and complete triumph over adversaries, achieved not by human might alone, but through God's empowerment. The imagery of devouring and subduing speaks to a comprehensive conquest. Thirdly, the verse introduces the theme of **Joy and Abundance**, depicting a scene of profound celebration and overflowing satisfaction. The comparison to "wine" and being "filled like bowls" suggests a state of joyous spiritual intoxication and complete fulfillment. Finally, the mention of "the corners of the altar" weaves in the theme of **Consecration and Divine Presence**, implying that the abundance and victory are not merely material but are sanctified and intimately connected to God's holy presence and purposes, perhaps even a foreshadowing of the ultimate cleansing and restoration that God would bring to His people, as seen in [Zechariah 13:1](/zechariah/13-1 "Zechariah 13:1 - A Fountain Opened for Sin and Uncleanness").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **defend (Hebrew, _gânan'_):** This primitive root means "to hedge about," implying a strong, protective barrier. It conveys the idea of God actively shielding and guarding His people, providing an impenetrable defense against all adversaries. It is not merely passive protection but an engaged, surrounding safeguard.
* **make a noise (Hebrew, _hâmâh'_):** While often translated simply as "make a noise," this word carries a richer connotation of "to be in great commotion or tumult," "to rage," "roar," or "clamor." In this context, it suggests a boisterous, triumphant shout or roar of victory and exultation, akin to the joyous clamor of those celebrating with wine, rather than a mere sound. It denotes a powerful, unrestrained expression of triumph.
* **corners (Hebrew, _zâvîyth'_):** Derived from a root suggesting "prominence," this word refers to an angle or a corner-column. In the context of the altar, the "corners" were significant, often where the blood of sacrifices was applied or poured out (e.g., [Leviticus 4:7](/leviticus/4-7 "Leviticus 4:7 - Blood on the Altar Horns")). Being "filled as the corners of the altar" implies not just abundance, but a sacred, overflowing fullness, consecrated to God and intimately connected with His presence and the sacrificial system.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The LORD of hosts shall defend them":** This opening clause immediately establishes the divine source of power and protection. "The LORD of hosts" (Yahweh Sabaoth) is a majestic title emphasizing God's sovereignty over all heavenly and earthly armies, highlighting His immense power and His unwavering commitment to His covenant people. He is not a passive observer but an active, mighty warrior who personally intervenes to protect those who are His.
* **"and they shall devour, and subdue with sling stones":** This phrase vividly describes the complete and decisive victory granted to God's people. "Devour" signifies the utter destruction or consumption of their enemies, while "subdue" speaks of bringing them into complete subjection. The mention of "sling stones" is particularly striking. It suggests that the means of victory, though seemingly humble or insignificant from a human perspective, are supernaturally empowered by God, recalling David's triumph over Goliath and underscoring that the power for conquest comes entirely from the Lord, not from the might of human weaponry.
* **"and they shall drink, [and] make a noise as through wine":** This clause shifts from the battlefield to a scene of profound celebration and joy. "They shall drink" implies partaking in the spoils of victory or simply experiencing immense satisfaction. The phrase "make a noise as through wine" denotes a boisterous, unrestrained, and joyous clamor, akin to the loud revelry of those intoxicated with wine. It signifies a celebration so overwhelming and exuberant that it spills forth in shouts of triumph and delight, a spiritual "intoxication" with God's goodness and victory.
* **"and they shall be filled like bowls, [and] as the corners of the altar":** This final part of the verse uses rich imagery to convey the extent of the blessing and satisfaction. Being "filled like bowls" suggests an overflowing abundance, a complete saturation. Bowls (mizrâq) were often used in the Temple for collecting blood or offerings, signifying a vessel completely full. The addition "and as the corners of the altar" deepens this imagery. The altar's corners were sacred points where sacrificial blood was applied, symbolizing atonement and consecration. Thus, being "filled... as the corners of the altar" implies an abundance that is not only overflowing but also holy, consecrated to God, and intimately connected with His presence and the sacred. It speaks of a deep, spiritual satisfaction that is pure and complete.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 9:15 is rich with powerful **Imagery**, painting vivid pictures of battle, celebration, and sacred abundance. The phrase "devour, and subdue with sling stones" employs **Metonymy**, where "sling stones" represent the humble yet divinely empowered means of victory. The verse also uses striking **Similes** to convey the depth of joy and fullness: "make a noise as through wine" vividly compares the celebratory clamor to the unrestrained joy of wine-induced revelry, while "filled like bowls, and as the corners of the altar" uses two distinct comparisons to emphasize an overwhelming and consecrated abundance. The latter simile also incorporates **Symbolism**, as "bowls" and "altar corners" are potent symbols of Temple rituals, sacrifice, and divine presence, elevating the promised abundance beyond mere material gain to a state of spiritual saturation and holiness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 9:15 powerfully articulates the biblical truth that God is the ultimate source of His people's defense, victory, and joy. It underscores His covenant faithfulness and His active role as the "LORD of hosts," a divine warrior who fights for His people. The passage highlights that true triumph comes not from human strength or sophisticated weaponry, but from divine empowerment, often through unexpected or humble means. This victory leads to an overflowing abundance and profound celebration, which is not merely carnal but consecrated, deeply connected to God's holy presence and purposes, foreshadowing the spiritual blessings and joy found in a right relationship with Him.

* [Psalm 46:7](/psalm/46-7 "Psalm 46:7 - The LORD of hosts is with us")
* [1 Samuel 17:47](/1_samuel/17-47 "1 Samuel 17:47 - The Battle is the LORD's")
* [Joel 2:24](/joel/2-24 "Joel 2:24 - Abundance of Grain and Wine")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 9:15 offers profound encouragement and a robust framework for faith in the life of a believer today. It calls us to place our ultimate trust in the "LORD of hosts," acknowledging that our true defense and security come from Him alone, regardless of the challenges we face. In a world often characterized by fear and uncertainty, this verse reassures us that God is actively engaged in protecting His people and granting them victory, even when the odds seem insurmountable or the means appear insignificant. It reminds us that our spiritual battles are fought and won by God's power, not our own. Furthermore, the imagery of overflowing joy and consecrated abundance invites us to live lives characterized by deep satisfaction and exuberant celebration of God's goodness. It challenges us to recognize His blessings as holy and to offer our lives back to Him in gratitude, allowing His Spirit to fill us to overflowing, transforming our daily experiences into a continuous act of worship and joyful service.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding "The LORD of hosts" as your defender impact your trust in God's protection in difficult circumstances or spiritual battles?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to trust God to grant you victory, even through seemingly insignificant or humble means, like "sling stones"?**
* **What does it mean to experience the "joy as through wine" and be "filled like bowls, and as the corners of the altar" in your spiritual life today, and how can you cultivate such a consecrated abundance?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "The LORD of hosts" in this verse?**

Answer: "The LORD of hosts" (Hebrew: *Yahweh Sabaoth*) is a powerful and majestic title for God, emphasizing His sovereignty and supreme authority over all creation, particularly over all armies, both heavenly and earthly. In Zechariah 9:15, it underscores that God is not merely a passive observer but an active, mighty warrior who personally defends and fights for His people. This title assures the reader of God's immense power and His unwavering commitment to His covenant promises, making Him the ultimate source of protection and victory.

**How can "sling stones" represent victory, especially when compared to modern warfare?**

Answer: The imagery of "sling stones" is a deliberate biblical allusion, most famously recalling [David's victory over the giant Goliath](/1_samuel/17-40-50 "1 Samuel 17:40-50 - David's Victory with a Sling") (1 Samuel 17). In that narrative, David, a shepherd boy armed only with a sling and stones, defeated a heavily armored warrior. This serves as a powerful symbol that God often chooses to work through seemingly weak, humble, or unconventional means to accomplish His mighty purposes. It highlights that the power for victory comes not from the instrument itself, nor from human strength or military might, but entirely from God's divine empowerment. Thus, "sling stones" in Zechariah 9:15 signify that God's people will achieve decisive victory not through their own formidable power, but through God working supernaturally through them, regardless of their perceived weakness.

**What does it mean to be "filled like bowls, and as the corners of the altar"?**

Answer: This phrase conveys a profound sense of overflowing abundance, joy, and consecration. "Filled like bowls" (Hebrew: *mizrâq*) suggests a complete saturation, as bowls were vessels often used in Temple rituals for collecting blood or offerings, implying a fullness that is comprehensive and overflowing. The addition "and as the corners of the altar" deepens the spiritual significance. The "corners" (Hebrew: *zâvîyth*) of the altar were sacred points where sacrificial blood was applied, symbolizing atonement, purification, and dedication to God (e.g., [Leviticus 4:7](/leviticus/4-7 "Leviticus 4:7 - Blood on the Altar Horns")). Therefore, being "filled... as the corners of the altar" means that the abundance and joy experienced by God's people are not merely material or fleeting but are holy, consecrated to God, deeply connected to His presence, and purified through sacrifice. It speaks of a spiritual satisfaction and blessing that is complete, pure, and dedicated to divine purposes.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 9:15 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the true "LORD of hosts," the divine warrior who came not to conquer earthly kingdoms with physical weapons, but to defeat the ultimate enemies of humanity: sin, death, and the devil. His defense of His people is perfectly demonstrated in His atoning sacrifice on the cross, where He triumphed over principalities and powers, making a public spectacle of them ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities and Powers")). Through His death and resurrection, Christ "devoured" the power of death and "subdued" the one who held its power ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ's Victory Over Death")). The "sling stones" imagery, representing humble means, finds its parallel in Christ's seemingly weak and vulnerable crucifixion, which paradoxically became the means of God's greatest victory. Believers, united with Christ, share in this overwhelming triumph, becoming "more than conquerors through him who loved us" ([Romans 8:87](/romans/8-87 "Romans 8:37 - More Than Conquerors Through Christ")). The "drinking" and "making a noise as through wine" foreshadow the spiritual joy and exuberance of the Holy Spirit, with which believers are to be filled ([Ephesians 5:18](/ephesians/5-18 "Ephesians 5:18 - Be Filled with the Spirit")), a foretaste of the ultimate celebration at the marriage supper of the Lamb ([Revelation 19:7-9](/revelation/19-7-9 "Revelation 19:7-9 - The Marriage Supper of the Lamb")). Finally, being "filled like bowls, and as the corners of the altar" points to the consecrated fullness that believers experience in Christ. Through His perfect sacrifice, we are made holy and are filled with His Spirit, becoming living sacrifices, consecrated vessels overflowing with God's grace and presence, dedicated entirely to His glory.

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

Zechariah 12:6

In that day will I make the governors of Judah like an hearth of fire among the wood, and like a torch of fire in a sheaf; and they shall devour all the people round about, on the right hand and on the left: and Jerusalem shall be inhabited again in her own place, [even] in Jerusalem.

Zechariah 10:7

And [they of] Ephraim shall be like a mighty [man], and their heart shall rejoice as through wine: yea, their children shall see [it], and be glad; their heart shall rejoice in the LORD.

Zechariah 10:5

¶ And they shall be as mighty [men], which tread down [their enemies] in the mire of the streets in the battle: and they shall fight, because the LORD [is] with them, and the riders on horses shall be confounded.

Zechariah 12:8

In that day shall the LORD defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and he that is feeble among them at that day shall be as David; and the house of David [shall be] as God, as the angel of the LORD before them.

Exodus 27:2

And thou shalt make the horns of it upon the four corners thereof: his horns shall be of the same: and thou shalt overlay it with brass.

Psalms 78:65

Then the Lord awaked as one out of sleep, [and] like a mighty man that shouteth by reason of wine.

Revelation 19:13

And he [was] clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.