Zephaniah 3:13

KJV

The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth: for they shall feed and lie down, and none shall make [them] afraid.

KJV (with Strong's)

The remnant {H7611} of Israel {H3478} shall not do {H6213} iniquity {H5766}, nor speak {H1696} lies {H3577}; neither shall a deceitful {H8649} tongue {H3956} be found {H4672} in their mouth {H6310}: for they shall feed {H7462} and lie down {H7257}, and none shall make them afraid {H2729}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The remnant of Isra'el will not do wrong, nor will they speak lies, nor will there be found in their mouths a tongue given over to deceit; for they will be able to graze and lie down, with no one to disturb them.

Berean Standard Bible

The remnant of Israel will no longer do wrong or speak lies, nor will a deceitful tongue be found in their mouths. But they will feed and lie down, with no one to make them tremble.”

American Standard Version

The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth; for they shall feed and lie down, and none shall make them afraid.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zephaniah 3:13 paints a vivid picture of the future, purified remnant of Israel, highlighting their profound moral transformation and the divine security they will experience. Following prophecies of severe judgment, this verse offers a radiant vision of restoration, emphasizing that this faithful remnant will be marked by absolute integrity in action and speech, living in a state of undisturbed peace and abundant provision under God's watchful care, free from any fear or threat.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zephaniah's prophecy begins with a sweeping declaration of the "Day of the Lord," a cataclysmic judgment against Judah and surrounding nations for their pervasive idolatry, corruption, and injustice (Zephaniah 1-2). The opening verses of chapter 3 continue this indictment, specifically targeting Jerusalem's rebellious, oppressive, and unrepentant leaders and inhabitants (Zephaniah 3:1-7). However, a dramatic shift occurs from Zephaniah 3:8 onward, where the tone transitions from condemnation to a profound promise of restoration and blessing. This verse, Zephaniah 3:13, stands as a pivotal component of this hopeful turning point, describing the character and secure state of the purified remnant who will emerge from the crucible of judgment. It contrasts sharply with the moral decay described earlier, presenting a vision of righteousness and peace as the ultimate outcome of God's redemptive plan.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Zephaniah prophesied during the reign of King Josiah (640-609 BC), a period marked by a brief religious revival following decades of idolatry under Manasseh and Amon. Despite Josiah's reforms, deep-seated corruption and syncretism persisted among the people, leading Zephaniah to warn of impending Babylonian invasion, which would serve as God's judgment. The concept of a "remnant" was not new; it reflected the historical reality of Israel's survival through various crises, often reduced to a faithful minority. Culturally, the imagery of "feeding and lying down" evokes the ideal pastoral life, symbolizing peace, security, and abundant provision, which was a deeply cherished aspiration in an agrarian society often threatened by scarcity, conflict, and wild animals. This imagery would resonate strongly with a people yearning for stability amidst political turmoil and spiritual decline.
* **Key Themes:** Zephaniah 3:13 profoundly contributes to several overarching themes within the book and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment and Restoration**, illustrating that God's severe discipline is ultimately purificatory, leading to a renewed people. Secondly, it highlights the crucial concept of the **Purified Remnant**, emphasizing that while widespread judgment will occur, God preserves a faithful few who will inherit His blessings, a theme echoed in [Isaiah's prophecies](/isaiah/10-20-22 "Isaiah 10:20-22 - The Remnant of Israel"). Thirdly, the verse powerfully articulates the theme of **Moral and Verbal Purity**, presenting a transformed people whose actions and words reflect God's holy character, a stark contrast to the deceit and violence prevalent in Jerusalem (as seen in [Zephaniah 3:1-4](/zephaniah/3-1-4 "Zephaniah 3:1-4 - The Corruption of Jerusalem")). Finally, the promise of security and rest points to **Divine Protection and Provision**, assuring the remnant of a future where they will live without fear, under God's unwavering care, reminiscent of the peace promised in [Micah 4:4](/micah/4-4 "Micah 4:4 - Peace and Security in the Last Days").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Remnant (Hebrew, _shᵉʼêrîyth'_):** (H7611) This term signifies a "remainder or residual (surviving, final) portion." In Zephaniah 3:13, it is not merely a statistical survival but a profound theological concept, referring to a purified, faithful group preserved by God through judgment. This remnant is distinct from the broader nation, chosen for a specific redemptive purpose and marked by spiritual transformation and renewed covenant faithfulness.
* **Iniquity (Hebrew, _ʻevel'_):** (H5766) This word denotes "moral evil," encompassing "perverseness, unjust(-ly), unrighteousness(-ly); wicked(-ness)." It refers to actions that deviate from God's righteous standards, often implying a deliberate distortion of justice or truth. The promise that the remnant "shall not do iniquity" signifies a profound internal change, aligning their character and conduct with divine holiness and justice.
* **Afraid (Hebrew, _chârad'_):** (H2729) Derived from a primitive root meaning "to shudder with terror," this word conveys the sense of being "terrified," "discomfited," or "trembling with fear." The declaration that "none shall make them afraid" highlights a state of complete security and peace, a divinely granted immunity from external threats and internal anxieties, contrasting sharply with the fear that judgment brings upon the unrighteous.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity,"**: This clause introduces the subject of the prophecy – the "remnant," a purified subset of the nation Israel, chosen by God for preservation. The core promise is a radical moral transformation, signifying a complete cessation of unrighteous actions and a commitment to living righteously, in stark contrast to the widespread sin that characterized the pre-judgment nation.
* **"nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth:"**: This second part of the transformation focuses specifically on verbal integrity. It emphasizes that the remnant's speech will be utterly truthful, free from any falsehood, deception, or treachery. The repetition and synonymous parallelism ("nor speak lies" and "neither shall a deceitful tongue be found") underscore the absolute nature of this verbal purity, indicating a heart fully aligned with truth.
* **"for they shall feed and lie down,"**: This clause introduces the consequence or result of their transformed character, marked by the conjunction "for." The imagery is deeply pastoral, evoking a scene of sheep grazing peacefully and resting securely in a field. "Feed" implies abundant provision and sustenance, while "lie down" signifies a state of complete rest, contentment, and safety, free from the need to be vigilant against threats.
* **"and none shall make [them] afraid."**: This final clause explicitly states the ultimate benefit of their righteous state and God's protection: absolute security. The absence of fear is a hallmark of divine blessing and a profound contrast to the terror associated with God's judgment. It signifies a complete cessation of external threats and internal anxieties, guaranteeing an undisturbed peace for the purified remnant.

#### Literary Devices
Zephaniah 3:13 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of hope and restoration. **Contrast** is central, as the verse starkly opposes the moral corruption and fear described earlier in the book with the future righteousness and security of the remnant. The phrase "shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth" utilizes **Parallelism**, specifically synonymous parallelism, to reinforce the theme of complete moral and verbal purity. The two negative statements about actions and words emphasize the thoroughness of the transformation. Furthermore, the vivid imagery of "they shall feed and lie down" is a classic example of **Pastoral Imagery**, which evokes a sense of idyllic peace, abundant provision, and profound security, reminiscent of a shepherd tending his flock. This imagery is a powerful **Symbol** of divine care and protection, assuring the remnant of a life free from want and danger. Finally, "a deceitful tongue" can be seen as **Metonymy**, where the part (tongue) stands for the whole (deceitful speech or the person who speaks deceitfully), highlighting the specific area of transformation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zephaniah 3:13 articulates a profound theological truth: God's ultimate purpose for His people is not merely judgment but purification and restoration, leading to a state of righteousness and secure peace. The concept of a "remnant" underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, even when the majority of His people fall into apostasy. This purified remnant, marked by integrity in both action and speech, reflects God's own holy character, demonstrating that true blessing flows from moral conformity to divine standards. The promise of undisturbed rest and freedom from fear points to the ultimate shalom (peace, wholeness) that God desires for His people, a peace that transcends external circumstances and is rooted in His protective presence. This vision anticipates the eschatological hope of a new heaven and new earth where righteousness dwells and fear is banished.

* [Romans 11:5](/romans/11-5 "Romans 11:5 - The Remnant According to Grace")
* [Ephesians 4:25](/ephesians/4-25 "Ephesians 4:25 - Putting Away Lying and Speaking Truth")
* [Psalm 23:2](/psalms/23-2 "Psalm 23:2 - The Lord Makes Me Lie Down in Green Pastures")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zephaniah 3:13 offers both a challenging call to holiness and a comforting promise of divine security for believers today. The transformation of the remnant from iniquity and deceit to righteousness and truthfulness serves as a powerful model for personal spiritual growth. It reminds us that genuine faith is not merely intellectual assent but a holistic commitment that impacts our actions, our words, and the very disposition of our hearts. In a world often characterized by dishonesty, fear, and unrest, this verse encourages us to actively pursue integrity in all our dealings, speaking truth with love, and living in a way that honors God. Furthermore, the promise of feeding, lying down, and being unafraid offers profound comfort, assuring us that when we align our lives with God's will, He provides ultimate rest, sustenance, and protection, freeing us from the anxieties that plague the unrighteous. It calls us to trust in His sovereign care, knowing that true peace is found in His presence, even amidst life's storms.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I need God's purifying work to remove "iniquity" or a "deceitful tongue"?**
* **How does the promise of "feeding and lying down" challenge my anxieties about provision and security?**
* **What practical steps can I take today to cultivate greater truthfulness and integrity in my speech and actions?**
* **How does the concept of a "remnant" encourage or challenge my understanding of God's work in the world today?**

### FAQ

**Who is "the remnant of Israel" mentioned in Zephaniah 3:13?**

Answer: The "remnant of Israel" refers to a faithful and purified portion of the nation that God preserves through the period of judgment. In Zephaniah's context, it signifies those who survive the "Day of the Lord" and are spiritually transformed, embodying true righteousness and integrity. This concept is a recurring theme in prophetic literature, highlighting God's faithfulness to His covenant and His commitment to preserving a people for Himself, even when the majority fall away. It's not merely a numerical survival but a spiritual one, where the survivors are marked by a renewed heart and obedience to God's commands, distinct from the rebellious majority described earlier in [Zephaniah 3:1-7](/zephaniah/3-1-7 "Zephaniah 3:1-7 - Jerusalem's Rebellion and God's Judgment").

**What does "shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies" mean for us today?**

Answer: This phrase sets a high standard for moral and verbal purity, which remains profoundly relevant for believers today. "Not doing iniquity" means living a life free from deliberate sin, injustice, and moral corruption, striving to align our actions with God's righteous character. "Nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth" emphasizes absolute truthfulness and integrity in all communication. For us, this means avoiding all forms of deception, slander, gossip, and misrepresentation, and instead speaking words that are truthful, edifying, and reflect the character of Christ. This call to integrity is echoed in the New Testament, such as in [Ephesians 4:25](/ephesians/4-25 "Ephesians 4:25 - Put Away Lying and Speak Truth"), which instructs believers to "put away lying, and speak every man truth with his neighbour." It signifies a transformed heart that desires to honor God in every word and deed.

**How does the promise "none shall make them afraid" relate to the "Day of the Lord" described in Zephaniah?**

Answer: The "Day of the Lord" in Zephaniah is primarily a time of terrifying judgment, bringing widespread destruction and fear upon the wicked (e.g., [Zephaniah 1:14-18](/zephaniah/1-14-18 "Zephaniah 1:14-18 - The Great Day of the Lord")). The promise that "none shall make them afraid" for the remnant stands in stark contrast to this. It signifies that those who are purified and preserved by God will be exempt from the terror and turmoil that engulf the unrighteous. This freedom from fear is a direct result of God's protective presence and the shalom (peace, wholeness) that He bestows upon His faithful people. It illustrates that while judgment is terrifying for the unrepentant, it ultimately paves the way for a secure and peaceful future for those who truly belong to God, demonstrating His ultimate sovereignty and care over His chosen ones.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zephaniah 3:13 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the new covenant He inaugurated. The "remnant of Israel" foreshadows the spiritual Israel, the Church, composed of all who are purified by faith in Christ. Jesus, as the perfectly righteous one, truly "did no iniquity, neither was deceit found in his mouth" ([1 Peter 2:22](/1_peter/2-22 "1 Peter 2:22 - Christ's Sinlessness")), embodying the moral and verbal purity promised for the remnant. Through His atoning sacrifice, believers are cleansed from sin and empowered by the Holy Spirit to "put off the old man with his deeds" and "put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness" ([Ephesians 4:22-24](/ephesians/4-22-24 "Ephesians 4:22-24 - Putting Off the Old Man and Putting On the New")). Furthermore, the pastoral imagery of the remnant feeding and lying down unafraid points directly to Christ as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd")). In Him, believers find true rest for their souls ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28-30 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")), abundant spiritual provision, and freedom from the ultimate fear of judgment and eternal separation from God ([Romans 8:1-2](/romans/8-1-2 "Romans 8:1-2 - No Condemnation in Christ Jesus")). The peace and security promised in Zephaniah 3:13 are fully realized in the peace that Christ gives, a peace that the world cannot give ([John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Christ's Peace")).

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 60:21

Thy people also [shall be] all righteous: they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified.

Revelation 14:5

And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.

Micah 4:7

And I will make her that halted a remnant, and her that was cast far off a strong nation: and the LORD shall reign over them in mount Zion from henceforth, even for ever.

Zephaniah 2:7

And the coast shall be for the remnant of the house of Judah; they shall feed thereupon: in the houses of Ashkelon shall they lie down in the evening: for the LORD their God shall visit them, and turn away their captivity.

Ezekiel 34:13

And I will bring them out from the people, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them to their own land, and feed them upon the mountains of Israel by the rivers, and in all the inhabited places of the country.

Ezekiel 34:15

I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD.

Isaiah 17:2

The cities of Aroer [are] forsaken: they shall be for flocks, which shall lie down, and none shall make [them] afraid.