Zechariah 10:1

Authorized King James Version

Ask ye of the LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; so the LORD shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שַׁאֲל֨וּ
Ask
to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand
#2
יְהוָ֖ה
so the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#3
וּמְטַר
of rain
rain
#4
בְּעֵ֣ת
in the time
time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc
#5
מַלְק֔וֹשׁ
of the latter rain
the spring rain; figuratively, eloquence
#6
יְהוָ֖ה
so the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#7
עֹשֶׂ֣ה
shall make
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#8
חֲזִיזִ֑ים
bright clouds
a flash of lightning
#9
וּמְטַר
of rain
rain
#10
גֶּ֙שֶׁם֙
them showers
a shower
#11
יִתֵּ֣ן
and give
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#12
לָהֶ֔ם
they (only used when emphatic)
#13
לְאִ֖ישׁ
to every one
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#14
עֵ֥שֶׂב
grass
grass (or any tender shoot)
#15
בַּשָּׂדֶֽה׃
in the field
a field (as flat)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Zechariah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout Zechariah.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Zechariah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection