Introduction to the Book of Zechariah

The Book of Zechariah was written about the same time as the Book of Haggai (in c.520BC). Through a series of visions and prophesies in Chapters 1-8, Zechariah urges the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem (see Ezra 3:1-13, 5:1 and 6:14). In Chapters 9-14, Zechariah looks ahead to the coming of the Messiah and the final Day of Judgement.

 

Zechariah

Title?   The Book of Zechariah.

Written by whom?   Zechariah, a priest who had been born in Babylonia.

When?   Written in c.520BC.

Where?   In Jerusalem.

To whom?   His message was aimed at the exiles who had returned to Jerusalem.

What was the message?   Zechariah encouraged the returned exiles to rebuild the Temple and looked ahead to the coming of the Messiah and the end times.

 

Jerusalem - Southern wall of the Temple Mount (Oren Rozen)

Southern wall of the Temple Mount   (Oren Rozen)

 

Zech 1:1   Zechariah prophesies to Zerubbabel (the Governor), Joshua (the High Priest) and the returned exiles in Jerusalem between 520BC and 518BC during the reign of King Darius of Persia (522-486BC).

Zech 1:2-6   The LORD says to his people, “Return to me, and I will return to you... Don't be like your ancestors... they wouldn't listen or pay attention to me.” (Zechariah 1:3-4)

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