King James Version
What Does Zechariah 13:5 Mean?
“But he shall say, I am no prophet, I am an husbandman ; for man taught me to keep cattle from my youth.”
Context
3
And it shall come to pass, that when any shall yet prophesy, then his father and his mother that begat him shall say unto him, Thou shalt not live; for thou speakest lies in the name of the LORD: and his father and his mother that begat him shall thrust him through when he prophesieth.
4
And it shall come to pass in that day, that the prophets shall be ashamed every one of his vision, when he hath prophesied; neither shall they wear a rough garment to deceive: a rough: Heb. a garment of hair deceive: Heb. lie
5
But he shall say, I am no prophet, I am an husbandman ; for man taught me to keep cattle from my youth.
6
And one shall say unto him, What are these wounds in thine hands? Then he shall answer, Those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends.
7
Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the LORD of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones.
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary**15. return to my place--**that is, withdraw My favor.
**till they acknowledge their offence--**The Hebrew is, "till they suffer the penalty of their guilt." Probably "accepting the punishment of their guilt" (compare Zec 11:5) is included in the idea, as English Version translates. Compare Le 26:40, 41; Jr 29:12, 13; Eze 6:9; 20:43; 36:31.
**seek my face--**that is, seek My favor (Pr 29:26, Margin).
**in ... affliction ... seek me early--**that is, diligently; rising up before dawn to seek Me (Psa 119:147; compare Psa 78:34).
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Zechariah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Zechariah 13:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Zechariah 13:5
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge