Zechariah 4:10
Zechariah 4:10 in Multiple Translations
For who has despised the day of small things? But these seven eyes of the LORD, which scan the whole earth, will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel.”
For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.
For who hath despised the day of small things? for these seven shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel; these are the eyes of Jehovah, which run to and fro through the whole earth.
For who has had a poor opinion of the day of small things? for they will be glad when they see the weighted measuring-line in the hand of Zerubbabel. Then he said in answer to me, These seven lights are the eyes of the Lord which go quickly up and down through all the earth.
For who dares look down on this time of small beginnings? They will be happy when they see the plumb line in Zerubbabel's hand. “The seven lamps represent the eyes of the Lord which see all over the world.”
For who hath despised the day of the small thinges? but they shall reioyce, and shall see the stone of tinne in the hand of Zerubbabel: these seuen are the eyes of the Lord, which go thorow the whole world.
For who trampled on the day of small things, They have rejoiced, And seen the tin weight in the hand of Zerubbabel, These seven [are] the eyes of Jehovah, They are going to and fro in all the land.'
Indeed, who despises the day of small things? For these seven shall rejoice, and shall see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. These are the LORD’s eyes, which run back and forth through the whole earth.”
For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.
For who hath despised little days? and they shall rejoice, and shall see the tin plummet in the hand of Zorobabel. These are the seven eyes of the Lord, that run to and fro through the whole earth.
No one [RHQ] should think that little things that are done at the beginning of a big project are unimportant. When the temple is almost finished being rebuilt, Zerubbabel will use a ◄plumb line/string with a stone fastened to it► to see if the walls they are building are straight; so when the people see that, they will rejoice.”
Berean Amplified Bible — Zechariah 4:10
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Zechariah 4:10 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
כִּ֣י
מִ֣י
בַז֮
לְ/י֣וֹם
קְטַנּוֹת֒
וְ/שָׂמְח֗וּ
וְ/רָא֞וּ
אֶת
הָ/אֶ֧בֶן
הַ/בְּדִ֛יל
בְּ/יַ֥ד
זְרֻבָּבֶ֖ל
שִׁבְעָה
אֵ֑לֶּה
עֵינֵ֣י
יְהוָ֔ה
הֵ֥מָּה
מְשׁוֹטְטִ֖ים
בְּ/כָל
הָ/אָֽרֶץ
כִּ֣י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
מִ֣י
mîy
H4310
who?
Part
בַז֮
bûwz
H936
to despise
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
לְ/י֣וֹם
yôwm
H3117
day
Prep | N-ms
קְטַנּוֹת֒
qâṭân
H6996
small
Adj
וְ/שָׂמְח֗וּ
sâmach
H8055
to rejoice
Conj | V-Qal-3cp
וְ/רָא֞וּ
râʼâh
H7200
Provider
Conj | V-Qal-3cp
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
הָ/אֶ֧בֶן
ʼeben
H68
stone
Art | N-fs
הַ/בְּדִ֛יל
bᵉdîyl
H913
tin
Art | N-ms
בְּ/יַ֥ד
yâd
H3027
hand
Prep | N-cs
זְרֻבָּבֶ֖ל
Zᵉrubbâbel
H2216
Zerubbabel
N-proper
שִׁבְעָה
shebaʻ
H7651
seven
Adj
אֵ֑לֶּה
ʼêl-leh
H428
these
Pron
עֵינֵ֣י
ʻayin
H5869
eye
N-cd
יְהוָ֔ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
הֵ֥מָּה
hêm
H1992
they(masc.)
Pron
מְשׁוֹטְטִ֖ים
shûwṭ
H7751
to rove
V-o
בְּ/כָל
kôl
H3605
all
Prep | N-ms
הָ/אָֽרֶץ
ʼerets
H776
land
Art | N-cs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Zechariah 4:10
כִּ֣י
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
מִ֣י
mîy
H4310
"who?"
Part
This word is used to ask questions like who, whose, or whom. It can also be used to express a wish, like would that or whoever. It appears in many forms throughout the Bible, often in phrases like O that or what.
Definition: who?, whose?, whom?, would that, whoever, whosoever
Usage: Occurs in 342 OT verses. KJV: any (man), [idiom] he, [idiom] him, [phrase] O that! what, which, who(-m, -se, -soever), [phrase] would to God. See also: Genesis 3:11; 2 Samuel 15:4; Psalms 4:7.
בַז֮
bûwz
H936
"to despise"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
To despise or hold in contempt is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which is used in the Bible to describe showing disrespect or disdain for someone or something, as seen in Proverbs. It can also mean to consider something insignificant. This term is translated as contemn or despise in the KJV Bible.
Definition: 1) to despise, hold in contempt, hold as insignificant 1a) (Qal) to despise, show despite toward
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: contemn, despise, [idiom] utterly. See also: Proverbs 1:7; Proverbs 23:9; Proverbs 6:30.
לְ/י֣וֹם
yôwm
H3117
"day"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow
Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.
קְטַנּוֹת֒
qâṭân
H6996
"small"
Adj
This Hebrew word means something or someone small in size, amount, or importance. It can describe something as little or least, and is often used to convey a sense of youth or insignificance. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: young, small, unimportant Another spelling of qa.ton (קָטֹן ": small" H6996B)
Usage: Occurs in 100 OT verses. KJV: least, less(-er), little (one), small(-est, one, quantity, thing), young(-er, -est). See also: Genesis 1:16; 1 Kings 22:31; Psalms 104:25.
וְ/שָׂמְח֗וּ
sâmach
H8055
"to rejoice"
Conj | V-Qal-3cp
This verb means to rejoice or be glad, often used in a religious sense, like when the Israelites rejoiced at the dedication of the temple in 1 Kings 8:66.
Definition: 1) to rejoice, be glad 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to rejoice 1a2) to rejoice (arrogantly), exult (at) 1a3) to rejoice (religiously) 1b) (Piel) to cause to rejoice, gladden, make glad 1c) (Hiphil) to cause to rejoice, gladden, make glad
Usage: Occurs in 148 OT verses. KJV: cheer up, be (make) glad, (have, make) joy(-ful), be (make) merry, (cause to, make to) rejoice, [idiom] very. See also: Exodus 4:14; Psalms 92:5; Psalms 5:12.
וְ/רָא֞וּ
râʼâh
H7200
"Provider"
Conj | V-Qal-3cp
The Hebrew word for provider means to see or look after, and is used to describe God's care for his people. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible, including in Genesis and other books.
Definition: (Lord will) Provide, cause to be seen. This name means to see, look at, inspect, look after
Usage: Occurs in 1206 OT verses. KJV: advise self, appear, approve, behold, [idiom] certainly, consider, discern, (make to) enjoy, have experience, gaze, take heed, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] joyfully, lo, look (on, one another, one on another, one upon another, out, up, upon), mark, meet, [idiom] be near, perceive, present, provide, regard, (have) respect, (fore-, cause to, let) see(-r, -m, one another), shew (self), [idiom] sight of others, (e-) spy, stare, [idiom] surely, [idiom] think, view, visions. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 41:41; Exodus 33:13.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הָ/אֶ֧בֶן
ʼeben
H68
"stone"
Art | N-fs
In the Bible, this word refers to a stone, which could be a rock, a weight, or even a precious gem. It is used to describe a variety of objects, from building materials to hailstones. The KJV translates it as stone or weight.
Definition: : weight 1) stone (large or small) 1a) common stone (in natural state) 1b) stone, as material 1b1) of tablets 1b2) marble, hewn stones 1c) precious stones, stones of fire 1d) stones containing metal (ore), tool for work or weapon 1e) weight 1f) plummet (stones of destruction) also made of metal 1g) stonelike objects, eg hailstones, stony heart, ice 1h) sacred object, as memorial Samuel set up to mark where God helped Israel to defeat the Philistines 1i) (simile) 1i1) sinking in water, motionlessness 1i2) strength, firmness, solidity 1i3) commonness 1j) (metaph) 1j1) petrified with terror 1j2) perverse, hard heart
Usage: Occurs in 239 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carbuncle, [phrase] mason, [phrase] plummet, (chalk-, hail-, head-, sling-) stone(-ny), (divers) weight(-s). See also: Genesis 2:12; 1 Samuel 6:15; Psalms 91:12.
הַ/בְּדִ֛יל
bᵉdîyl
H913
"tin"
Art | N-ms
This Hebrew word refers to tin or alloy, and is also used figuratively to describe Israel. It is translated as plummet or tin in the KJV.
Definition: 1) alloy, tin, dross 1a) of Israel (metaph.)
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] plummet, tin. See also: Numbers 31:22; Ezekiel 22:20; Isaiah 1:25.
בְּ/יַ֥ד
yâd
H3027
"hand"
Prep | N-cs
In the Bible, 'yad' refers to an open hand, symbolizing power or direction. It can also mean strength or a part of something, like a side or a share. The word is used in many contexts, including anatomy and everyday life.
Definition: : hand/arm[anatomy] 1) hand 1a) hand (of man) 1b) strength, power (fig.) 1c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.) 1d) (various special, technical senses) 1d1) sign, monument 1d2) part, fractional part, share 1d3) time, repetition 1d4) axle-trees, axle 1d5) stays, support (for laver) 1d6) tenons (in tabernacle) 1d7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure) 1d8) wrists
Usage: Occurs in 1446 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] be) able, [idiom] about, [phrase] armholes, at, axletree, because of, beside, border, [idiom] bounty, [phrase] broad, (broken-) handed, [idiom] by, charge, coast, [phrase] consecrate, [phrase] creditor, custody, debt, dominion, [idiom] enough, [phrase] fellowship, force, [idiom] from, hand(-staves, -y work), [idiom] he, himself, [idiom] in, labour, [phrase] large, ledge, (left-) handed, means, [idiom] mine, ministry, near, [idiom] of, [idiom] order, ordinance, [idiom] our, parts, pain, power, [idiom] presumptuously, service, side, sore, state, stay, draw with strength, stroke, [phrase] swear, terror, [idiom] thee, [idiom] by them, [idiom] themselves, [idiom] thine own, [idiom] thou, through, [idiom] throwing, [phrase] thumb, times, [idiom] to, [idiom] under, [idiom] us, [idiom] wait on, (way-) side, where, [phrase] wide, [idiom] with (him, me, you), work, [phrase] yield, [idiom] yourselves. See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 7:19; Leviticus 14:22.
זְרֻבָּבֶ֖ל
Zᵉrubbâbel
H2216
"Zerubbabel"
N-proper
Zerubbabel was a leader of the tribe of Judah during the time of the Israelites' exile and return, as mentioned in 1 Chronicles 3:19 and the book of Ezra. He was the son of Pedaiah and father of several children, including Meshullam and Hananiah. Zerubbabel played a key role in the Israelites' history.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at 1Ch.3.19; son of: Pedaiah (H6305H); brother of: Shimei (H8096J); father of: Meshullam (H4918H), Hananiah (H2608L), Shelomith (H8019I), Hashubah (H2807), Ohel (H0169), Berechiah (H1296), Hasadiah (H2619), Jushab-hesed (H3142) and Abiud (G0010); also called Sheshbazzar at Ezr.1.8,11; 5.14,16; KJV: Zorobabel at Mat.1.12,13; § Zerubbabel = "sown in Babylon" the grandson of king Jehoiachin and leader of the first group of returning exiles from Babylon
Usage: Occurs in 20 OT verses. KJV: Zerubbabel. See also: 1 Chronicles 3:19; Haggai 1:12; Zechariah 4:10.
שִׁבְעָה
shebaʻ
H7651
"seven"
Adj
This word means the number seven, which was considered a special or sacred number. It can also mean seven times or a week, and is used in the Bible to describe completeness or perfection. The KJV translates it as seven or sevenfold.
Definition: 1) seven (cardinal number) 1a) as ordinal number 1b) in combination-17, 700 etc Aramaic equivalent: shiv.ah (שִׁבְעָה "seven" H7655)
Usage: Occurs in 344 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] by) seven(-fold),-s, (-teen, -teenth), -th, times). Compare H7658 (שִׁבְעָנָה). See also: Genesis 4:24; Leviticus 23:15; 2 Samuel 21:6.
אֵ֑לֶּה
ʼêl-leh
H428
"these"
Pron
This Hebrew word is used to point out specific people or things, like saying 'these' or 'those'. It appears in the book of Genesis, where God says 'let there be light' and separates the light from the darkness.
Definition: 1) these 1a) used before antecedent 1b) used following antecedent Aramaic equivalent: el.leh (אֵלֶּה "these" H0429)
Usage: Occurs in 697 OT verses. KJV: an-(the) other; one sort, so, some, such, them, these (same), they, this, those, thus, which, who(-m). See also: Genesis 2:4; Exodus 35:1; Deuteronomy 1:35.
עֵינֵ֣י
ʻayin
H5869
"eye"
N-cd
This word can mean a spring or fountain, but also refers to the eye or a source of something. It is often translated as affliction, outward appearance, or countenance, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : eye 1) eye 1a) eye 1a1) of physical eye 1a2) as showing mental qualities 1a3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 828 OT verses. KJV: affliction, outward appearance, [phrase] before, [phrase] think best, colour, conceit, [phrase] be content, countenance, [phrase] displease, eye((-brow), (-d), -sight), face, [phrase] favour, fountain, furrow (from the margin), [idiom] him, [phrase] humble, knowledge, look, ([phrase] well), [idiom] me, open(-ly), [phrase] (not) please, presence, [phrase] regard, resemblance, sight, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them, [phrase] think, [idiom] us, well, [idiom] you(-rselves). See also: Genesis 3:5; Exodus 34:9; Deuteronomy 28:67.
יְהוָ֔ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
הֵ֥מָּה
hêm
H1992
"they(masc.)"
Pron
This Hebrew word is used to refer to a group of men, emphasizing that it is specifically them. It is often translated as 'they' or 'them' in the Bible, and appears in books like Exodus and Isaiah.
Definition: they, these, the same, who
Usage: Occurs in 524 OT verses. KJV: it, like, [idiom] (how, so) many (soever, more as) they (be), (the) same, [idiom] so, [idiom] such, their, them, these, they, those, which, who, whom, withal, ye. See also: Genesis 3:7; Deuteronomy 19:17; 2 Kings 1:18.
מְשׁוֹטְטִ֖ים
shûwṭ
H7751
"to rove"
V-o
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to row a boat or travel by sea, like the mariners in Psalm 107:23. It involves pushing forth with oars. The KJV translates it as 'go' or 'row' in different contexts.
Definition: 1) to go, go or rove about, go to and fro 1a) (Qal) to go or rove about 1b) (Polel) to go to and fro, go eagerly or quickly to and fro 1c) (Hithpolel) to run to and fro
Usage: Occurs in 13 OT verses. KJV: go (about, through, to and fro), mariner, rower, run to and fro. See also: Numbers 11:8; Jeremiah 5:1; Jeremiah 49:3.
בְּ/כָל
kôl
H3605
"all"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
הָ/אָֽרֶץ
ʼerets
H776
"land"
Art | N-cs
The land or earth refers to the soil or ground, and can also mean a country, territory, or region. In the Bible, it is used to describe the earth and its inhabitants, and is often translated as 'land' or 'country'.
Definition: : soil 1) land, earth 1a) earth 1a1) whole earth (as opposed to a part) 1a2) earth (as opposed to heaven) 1a3) earth (inhabitants) 1b) land 1b1) country, territory 1b2) district, region 1b3) tribal territory 1b4) piece of ground 1b5) land of Canaan, Israel 1b6) inhabitants of land 1b7) Sheol, land without return, (under) world 1b8) city (-state) 1c) ground, surface of the earth 1c1) ground 1c2) soil 1d) (in phrases) 1d1) people of the land 1d2) space or distance of country (in measurements of distance) 1d3) level or plain country 1d4) land of the living 1d5) end(s) of the earth 1e) (almost wholly late in usage) 1e1) lands, countries 1e1a) often in contrast to Canaan
Usage: Occurs in 2190 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] common, country, earth, field, ground, land, [idiom] natins, way, [phrase] wilderness, world. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 18:18; Genesis 42:13.
Study Notes — Zechariah 4:10
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Context — The Vision of the Lampstand and Olive Trees
8Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying,
9“The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house, and his hands will complete it. Then you will know that the LORD of Hosts has sent me to you.
10For who has despised the day of small things? But these seven eyes of the LORD, which scan the whole earth, will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel.”
11Then I asked the angel, “What are the two olive trees on the right and left of the lampstand?” 12And I questioned him further, “What are the two olive branches beside the two gold pipes from which the golden oil pours?”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Job 8:7 | Though your beginnings were modest, your latter days will flourish. |
| 2 | 1 Corinthians 1:28–29 | He chose the lowly and despised things of the world, and the things that are not, to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast in His presence. |
| 3 | 2 Chronicles 16:9 | For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him. You have acted foolishly in this matter. From now on, therefore, you will be at war.” |
| 4 | Matthew 13:31–33 | He put before them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a man planted in his field. Although it is the smallest of all seeds, yet it grows into the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches.” He told them still another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and mixed into three measures of flour, until all of it was leavened.” |
| 5 | Haggai 2:3 | ‘Who is left among you who saw this house in its former glory? How does it look to you now? Does it not appear to you like nothing in comparison?’ |
| 6 | Proverbs 15:3 | The eyes of the LORD are in every place, observing the evil and the good. |
| 7 | Proverbs 4:18 | The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining brighter and brighter until midday. |
| 8 | Zechariah 3:9 | See the stone I have set before Joshua; on that one stone are seven eyes. Behold, I will engrave on it an inscription, declares the LORD of Hosts, and I will remove the iniquity of this land in a single day. |
| 9 | Revelation 5:6 | Then I saw a Lamb who appeared to have been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. The Lamb had seven horns and seven eyes, which represent the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth. |
| 10 | Amos 7:7–8 | This is what He showed me: Behold, the Lord was standing by a wall true to plumb, with a plumb line in His hand. “Amos, what do you see?” asked the LORD. “A plumb line,” I replied. “Behold,” said the Lord, “I am setting a plumb line among My people Israel; I will no longer spare them: |
Zechariah 4:10 Summary
[Zechariah 4:10 reminds us that God is at work even in the smallest details of our lives, and we should not overlook or despise these things. Just like the seven eyes of the LORD watch over and guide His people, God is always with us, guiding and directing us, as seen in Psalm 23:4. This verse encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty and care, even when things seem insignificant or unimportant. By doing so, we can rejoice in His presence and trust in His plans for our lives, as stated in Jeremiah 29:11.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the phrase 'day of small things' mean in Zechariah 4:10?
The phrase 'day of small things' refers to a time when things may seem insignificant or unimportant, but God is still at work, as seen in Zechariah 4:10, and He can use these small things to accomplish great purposes, as stated in 1 Corinthians 1:27-29.
What are the 'seven eyes of the LORD' in Zechariah 4:10?
The 'seven eyes of the LORD' represent God's all-seeing and omniscient nature, watching over and guiding His people, as also mentioned in Revelation 5:6, where Jesus is described as having seven eyes.
Why is the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel significant?
The plumb line in Zerubbabel's hand symbolizes God's precision and care in rebuilding the temple, as well as Zerubbabel's role as a leader in this process, as mentioned in Zechariah 4:9, where it is stated that Zerubbabel's hands will complete the temple.
How does this verse relate to our everyday lives?
This verse reminds us that God is at work even in the smallest details of our lives, and we should not despise or overlook these small things, but instead trust in God's sovereignty and guidance, as encouraged in Proverbs 3:5-6.
Reflection Questions
- What are some 'small things' in my life that I may be despising or overlooking, and how can I trust God to use them for His purposes?
- How can I, like Zerubbabel, be faithful in the tasks and responsibilities that God has given me, even if they seem insignificant?
- What does it mean for me to 'rejoice' in the presence of God, as the seven eyes of the LORD rejoice when they see the plumb line in Zerubbabel's hand?
- In what ways can I, as a follower of God, demonstrate His care and precision in my own life and work, as symbolized by the plumb line in Zechariah 4:10?
Gill's Exposition on Zechariah 4:10
For who hath despised the day of small things?.... This literally refers to the building of the second temple, which was contemptible to the enemies of Judah, Sanballat, and others; and little in the
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Zechariah 4:10
For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Zechariah 4:10
And now for those that despised small beginnings; who they are is well known, and to them I say, and promise what they expected not. Despised the day of small things; of which . For, or but, notwithstanding they so much undervalued the meanness of the second temple, yet when finished they shall, with many others, rejoice in it. The plummet; the perpendicular with which Zerubbabel shall try the finished work, or the work near finishing. With those seven; in subordination to and co-working with the Divine Providence, expressed emblematically by the seven eyes, which were on that stone, of which . Though Zerubbabel were prudent in managing all the affairs of the Jews, Jerusalem, and the temple, yet not his prudence, but the infinite wisdom of God, gave success; and when the success appears in the finishing of the temple, then shall it be acknowledged an admirable work of the Divine wisdom, and the Jews shall confess that the eyes of the Lord, which run to and fro through the whole earth, have been upon them in this work for good, and that God hath showed himself on their behalf.
Trapp's Commentary on Zechariah 4:10
Zechariah 4:10 For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel [with] those seven; they [are] the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.Ver. 10. For who hath despised the day of small things?] Nay, who had not? The generality of the Jews were clearly guilty, Ezra 8:13, and are therefore here justly, reproved. As Naaman once looked on God’ s Jordan with Syrian eyes, and so slighted the notion of washing therein; so these distrustful Jews despised the small beginnings of this great work, and the little likelihood of ever bringing it to any good upshot. "Is it not in your eyes as nothing?" saith Haggai, Haggai 2:3. They seemed only to grieve at it; but God construeth it for a downright contempt; for he judgeth otherwise of our carnal affections than we ourselves, and will have us to know that his thoughts are not our thoughts, neither are his ways our ways, Isaiah 55:8. Out of meanest principles he many times raiseth matters of greatest moment; that his own immediate hand may the more appear. The kingdom of heaven was at first but as "a grain of mustard seed," Matthew 13:32. The stone cut out of the mountain without hands, as if it had dropped out, or been blown down thence, became a mountain, and filled the whole earth, Daniel 2:34-35. The cloud that rose as little as a man’ s hand, soon after muffled the whole heaven.
God put little thoughts into the heart of Ahasuerus concerning Mordecai, but for great purposes. Who would ever have thought, that out of Abraham, now as good as dead, should have come the Messiah? or that out of the dry root of Jesse should come the Branch spoken of in the former chapter? Who would have imagined that going forth only with his bow, Revelation 6:2, and arrows, Psalms 45:5, the foolishness of preaching, he could conquer in three hundred years the whole Roman empire? that by Huss, a goose, and Luther, a swan, such strange things should have been done in Bohemia and Germany? that by a scruple cast into Henry VIII’ s mind about his marriage with Catharine of Spain by the French ambassador (who came to consult with him of a marriage between the Lady Mary and the Duke of Orleans, second son to the King of France), whether Mary were legitimate, &c., the Pope should be cast off here, and reformation wought by so weak and simple means, yea, by casual and cross means? this, saith one, is that miracle which we are in these times to look for. For they shall rejoice] Or, but they shall rejoice, or, nay, they shall reioice, nay, they shall see, viz. that which they despaired of ever seeing, and were therefore much cast down about the perfection of the work, and its glorious accomplishment.
Ellicott's Commentary on Zechariah 4:10
(10) For who hath . . . small things?—i.e., Surely no one, who intended to do great things, ever despised the day of small things. The interrogative sentence is practically a prohibition: “Let none despise the day of small things.” For they shall rejoice . . . whole earth.—Better, Then these seven shall with joy behold the plummet line in the hand of Zerubbabel; the eyes of the Lord—they sweep through the whole earth—i.e., if ye despise not this day of small things, when ye see but the foundation of the Temple laid, the providential care of the Lord (comp. Zechariah 3:9) shall rejoice to see Zerubbabel taking the last perpendicular of the completed work; but if ye doubt the possibility of this, know that God’s providence extends over the whole earth, and that, therefore, He can make all things and all nations work together for the good of His chosen, Israel.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Zechariah 4:10
Verse 10. Who hath despised the day of small things?] The poverty, weakness, and unbefriended state of the Jews. It was said, "What do these feeble Jews?" "Will they build," c.? No. But God will build by them, and perfect his building too. And shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel] He is master builder under God, the grand architect. Those seven - are the eyes of the Lord] Either referring to his particular and especial providence or to those ministering spirits, whom he has employed in behalf of the Jews, to dispense the blessings of that providence. See the reading in the margin. (2 Chronicles 16:9; Proverbs 15:3; Zechariah 3:9)
Cambridge Bible on Zechariah 4:10
10. with those seven] Rather, even these seven, as in R. V. The meaning of the verse is: For who hath despised the day of small things? (comp: Haggai 2:3) For (seeing that) these seven eyes of Jehovah, which run to and fro throughout all the earth, shall rejoice to see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel. Since, then, God beholds the progress of the work with joy and favour, who will venture to despise it?
Barnes' Notes on Zechariah 4:10
The simplest rendering is marked by the accents. “For who hath despised the day of small things?
Whedon's Commentary on Zechariah 4:10
Zechariah 4:7-10 contain a message of encouragement, addressed, on the basis of the vision, by the prophet to Zerubbabel (see on Zechariah 2:6).
Sermons on Zechariah 4:10
| Sermon | Description | |
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God's Standard of Values by T. Austin-Sparks | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on Christ in everything we do. He mentions the slogan "Attempt great things for God. Expect great things from God, |
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Gods Standard of Values by T. Austin-Sparks | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on Christ and His purpose in our lives. He highlights the significance of having a vision and being willing to suf |
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Hungry for God by Gerhard Du Toit | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of having a strong relationship with God and with fellow believers. He shares a story about a week of prayer in a church where |
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The Expectations of the Righteous by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's presence in our lives. He encourages believers to not despise small beginnings, as it is evidence that G |
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Ezra #3: Reasons for an Incomplete Temple, Part 1 by Ed Miller | In this sermon, the speaker starts by discussing the reasons why the work on the temple stopped in Ezra chapter 4. He explains that the people were forced to stop by the government |
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Small Things Are Big Things by Teresa Conlon | This sermon emphasizes the significance of seemingly small things in our spiritual life, highlighting how even the tiniest seed of faith or sin can have a profound impact. It urges |
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(Through the Bible) Zephaniah & Haggai by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Zechariah, specifically chapter four. The preacher describes a vision in which an angel wakes him up and shows him a golden candl |