Zechariah 13:5

Authorized King James Version

But he shall say, I am no prophet, I am an husbandman; for man taught me to keep cattle from my youth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאָמַ֕ר

H559

But he shall say

to say (used with great latitude)

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

נָבִ֖יא

H5030

I am no prophet

a prophet or (generally) inspired man

אָנֹ֑כִי

H595

אִישׁ

H376

I am an husbandman

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)

עֹבֵ֤ד

H5647

to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc

אֲדָמָה֙

H127

soil (from its general redness)

אָנֹ֔כִי

H595

כִּ֥י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#10

אָדָ֖ם

H120

for man

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

#11

הִקְנַ֥נִי

H7069

taught me to keep cattle

to erect, i.e., create; by extension, to procure, especially by purchase (causatively, sell); by implication to own

#12

מִנְּעוּרָֽי׃

H5271

from my youth

(only in plural collective or emphatic form) youth, the state (juvenility) or the persons (young people)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Zechariah, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?