21 verses
Joel 3 foretells Israel’s restoration from captivity, curses the offending nations of Tyre and Zidon, and proclaims a dramatic cosmic judgment in the Valley of Jehoshaphat, ending with divine hope for Jerusalem.
In verses 1–2 the Lord announces his promise to restore Judah and Jerusalem from exile, gathering all nations to the Valley of Jehoshaphat where he will plead for his people. Verses 3–8 turn to a severe indictment of Tyre, Zidon, and the coast of Palestine, accusing them of stealing Israel’s children, gold, and silver and of selling them to foreigners; the Lord vows to repay them. Verses 9–14 issue a call to war: turning plowshares into swords, assembling the heathen, and gathering for judgment in the valley. Verses 15–16 describe cosmic signs—the darkening of sun and moon, the roar from Zion, shaking of heaven and earth—yet assure Israel that the Lord remains their hope and strength. Verses 17–21 declare that Jerusalem will become holy, no strangers will pass through, and the land will prosper with wine, milk, and waters; while Egypt and Edom will be desolated, Judah will endure forever, and God will cleanse the remaining bloodshed.
mixed
The chapter oscillates between threat, judgment, and hopeful restoration.