Zechariah 14:6

Authorized King James Version

And it shall come to pass in that day, that the light shall not be clear, nor dark:

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְהָיָ֖ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

בַּיּ֣וֹם

H3117

And it shall come to pass in that day

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

הַה֑וּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

לֹֽא

H3808

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

יִהְיֶ֣ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

א֔וֹר

H216

that the light

illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)

יְקָר֖וֹת

H3368

shall not be clear

valuable (objectively or subjectively)

יְקִפָּאֽוֹן׃

H7087

nor dark

to shrink, i.e., thicken (as unracked wine, curdled milk, clouded sky, frozen water)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Zechariah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?