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Zechariah 10

12 verses

TL;DR

The passage portrays God’s call for prayer and rain, judgment on idolatry, and a promise of restoration and victory for Israel.

Summary

The chapter opens with a request for rain and a promise that God will provide it, symbolizing divine provision. It then criticizes idols and diviners for leading people astray, portraying the lack of true shepherds. God’s anger toward false shepherds is juxtaposed with His care for Israel’s flock, promising strength in battle. The text continues with assurances of restoration for Judah and Joseph, the strengthening of Ephraim, and a future gathering of the dispersed people. Finally, it foretells divine victory over Assyria and Egypt, concluding with God’s pledge to sustain Israel’s faith.

Outline
  1. 1. Petition for rain and lamentation over idolatry (v.1‑2).
  2. 2. Judgment on false leaders and promise of strength for Israel/Judah/Ephraim (v.3‑7).
  3. 3. Restoration, victory over enemies, and divine promise of continued faith (v.8‑12).
Themes
Idolatry vs. true worshipJudgment and mercyRestoration and victory
Keywords
rainidolatryshepherdjudgmentmercyrestorationvictory
People
Lord (God)Israel/JudahJosephEphraimIdolsDivinersShepherdsGoats
Places
FieldJudahGileadLebanonEgyptAssyriaSea
Things
RainCloudsIdolsDivinersShepherdsGoatsBattle bowOppressorsHouse of JudahHouse of Joseph
Key Verses
  • Zechariah 10:1: Highlights the need for divine provision and the promise of rain.
  • Zechariah 10:3: Shows God’s judgment on false shepherds while protecting Israel.
  • Zechariah 10:6: Affirms God’s mercy and promise to strengthen Judah and Joseph.
  • Zechariah 10:11: Predicts divine defeat of Assyria and Egypt, underscoring the theme of victory.
Questions
  • What does the imagery of rain and clouds signify in this context?
  • How is the metaphor of shepherds and goats used to critique leadership?
  • In what ways does the passage reconcile judgment with mercy?
  • What is the significance of mentioning Egypt and Assyria in the promise of victory?
Sentiment

mixed
Contains both condemnation of idolatry and assurances of restoration.