Zechariah 8:7

Authorized King James Version

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will save my people from the east country, and from the west country;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כֹּ֤ה
properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
#2
אָמַר֙
Thus saith
to say (used with great latitude)
#3
יְהוָ֣ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
צְבָא֔וֹת
of hosts
a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci
#5
הִנְנִ֥י
lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if
#6
מוֹשִׁ֛יעַ
Behold I will save
properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor
#7
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
עַמִּ֖י
my people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#9
וּמֵאֶ֖רֶץ
country
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#10
מִזְרָ֑ח
from the east
sunrise, i.e., the east
#11
וּמֵאֶ֖רֶץ
country
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#12
מְב֥וֹא
and from the west
an entrance (the place or the act); specifically sunset or the west; also (adverb with preposition) towards
#13
הַשָּֽׁמֶשׁ׃
the sun; by implication, the east; figuratively, a ray, i.e., (architectural) a notched battlement

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 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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