Zechariah 5:4
Zechariah 5:4 in Multiple Translations
I will send it out, declares the LORD of Hosts, and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of him who swears falsely by My name. It will remain inside his house and destroy it, down to its timbers and stones.”
I will bring it forth, saith the LORD of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name: and it shall remain in the midst of his house, and shall consume it with the timber thereof and the stones thereof.
I will cause it to go forth, saith Jehovah of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name; and it shall abide in the midst of his house, and shall consume it with the timber thereof and the stones thereof.
And I will send it out, says the Lord of armies, and it will go into the house of the thief and into the house of him who takes a false oath by my name: and it will be in his house, causing its complete destruction, with its woodwork and its stones.
“I have sent the curse out and it will go into the house of the thief and into the house of the one who swears lies in my name, declares the Lord Almighty. The curse will remain in that house, and will destroy it, both the timbers and the stones.”
I will bring it forth, saith the Lord of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thiefe, and into the house of him, that falsely sweareth by my Name: and it shall remaine in the middes of his house, and shall consume it, with the timber thereof, and stones thereof.
'I have brought it out — an affirmation of Jehovah of Hosts — and it hath come in unto the house of the thief, and unto the house of him who hath sworn in My name to a falsehood, and it hath remained in the midst of his house, and hath consumed it, both its wood and its stones.'
I will cause it to go out,” says the LORD of Armies, “and it will enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him who swears falsely by my name; and it will remain in the middle of his house, and will destroy it with its timber and its stones.”
I will bring it forth, saith the LORD of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name: and it shall remain in the midst of his house, and shall consume it with its timber and its stones.
I will bring it forth, saith the Lord of hosts: and it shall come to the house of the thief, and to the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name: and it shall remain in the midst of his house, and shall consume it, with the timber thereof, and the stones thereof.
The Commander of the armies of angels says, ‘I will send copies of this scroll to the places where thieves live and to the houses of those who use my name when they solemnly promise to tell the truth. The copies of this scroll will stay in their houses, until those houses and all their wood and stones are destroyed.’ ”
Berean Amplified Bible — Zechariah 5:4
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 5:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
הוֹצֵאתִ֗י/הָ
נְאֻם֙
יְהוָ֣ה
צְבָא֔וֹת
וּ/בָ֨אָה֙
אֶל
בֵּ֣ית
הַ/גַּנָּ֔ב
וְ/אֶל
בֵּ֛ית
הַ/נִּשְׁבָּ֥ע
בִּ/שְׁמִ֖/י
לַ/שָּׁ֑קֶר
וְ/לָ֨נֶה֙
בְּ/ת֣וֹךְ
בֵּית֔/וֹ
וְ/כִלַּ֖תּ/וּ
וְ/אֶת
עֵצָ֥י/ו
וְ/אֶת
אֲבָנָֽי/ו
הוֹצֵאתִ֗י/הָ
yâtsâʼ
H3318
to come out
V-Hiphil-Perf-1cs | Suff
נְאֻם֙
nᵉʼum
H5002
utterance
N-ms
יְהוָ֣ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
צְבָא֔וֹת
tsâbâʼ
H6635
army
N-cp
וּ/בָ֨אָה֙
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
Conj | V-Qal-3fs
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
בֵּ֣ית
bayith
H1004
place
N-ms
הַ/גַּנָּ֔ב
gannâb
H1590
thief
Art | N-ms
וְ/אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Conj | Prep
בֵּ֛ית
bayith
H1004
place
N-ms
הַ/נִּשְׁבָּ֥ע
shâbaʻ
H7650
to swear
Art | V-Niphal
בִּ/שְׁמִ֖/י
shêm
H8034
name
Prep | N-ms | Suff
לַ/שָּׁ֑קֶר
sheqer
H8267
deception
Prep | N-ms
וְ/לָ֨נֶה֙
lûwn
H3885
to lodge
Conj | V-Qal-3fs
בְּ/ת֣וֹךְ
tâvek
H8432
midst
Prep | N-ms
בֵּית֔/וֹ
bayith
H1004
place
N-ms | Suff
וְ/כִלַּ֖תּ/וּ
kâlâh
H3615
to end
Conj | V-Piel-3fs | Suff
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
Conj | DirObjM
עֵצָ֥י/ו
ʻêts
H6086
tree
N-mp | Suff
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
Conj | DirObjM
אֲבָנָֽי/ו
ʼeben
H68
stone
N-fp | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — Zechariah 5:4
הוֹצֵאתִ֗י/הָ
yâtsâʼ
H3318
"to come out"
V-Hiphil-Perf-1cs | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to go out or come out, and it's used in many different ways, like leaving a place or starting a new journey, as seen in Genesis and Exodus.
Definition: : come/go_out/escape 1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come out or forth, depart 1a2) to go forth (to a place) 1a3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something) 1a4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result) 1a5) to come out of 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out 1b2) to bring out of 1b3) to lead out 1b4) to deliver 1c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth
Usage: Occurs in 991 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, appear, [idiom] assuredly, bear out, [idiom] begotten, break out, bring forth (out, up), carry out, come (abroad, out, thereat, without), [phrase] be condemned, depart(-ing, -ure), draw forth, in the end, escape, exact, fail, fall (out), fetch forth (out), get away (forth, hence, out), (able to, cause to, let) go abroad (forth, on, out), going out, grow, have forth (out), issue out, lay (lie) out, lead out, pluck out, proceed, pull out, put away, be risen, [idiom] scarce, send with commandment, shoot forth, spread, spring out, stand out, [idiom] still, [idiom] surely, take forth (out), at any time, [idiom] to (and fro), utter. See also: Genesis 1:12; Exodus 9:33; Leviticus 26:45.
נְאֻם֙
nᵉʼum
H5002
"utterance"
N-ms
This word refers to an utterance or declaration from God, often through a prophet. It is used in the Bible to describe a revelation or message from God, like in Exodus or Numbers.
Definition: 1) (Qal) utterance, declaration (of prophet) 1a) utterance, declaration, revelation (of prophet in ecstatic state) 1b) utterance, declaration (elsewhere always preceding divine name)
Usage: Occurs in 358 OT verses. KJV: (hath) said, saith. See also: Genesis 22:16; Jeremiah 22:16; Psalms 36:2.
יְהוָ֣ה
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.
צְבָא֔וֹת
tsâbâʼ
H6635
"army"
N-cp
This Hebrew word means a large group of people or things, often referring to an army or a campaign, and is also used to describe the Lord's hosts. It appears in the Bible as a name for God, emphasizing His power and authority. In the KJV, it's translated as 'host' or 'army'.
Definition: : army 1) that which goes forth, army, war, warfare, host 1a) army, host 1a1) host (of organised army) 1a2) host (of angels) 1a3) of sun, moon, and stars 1a4) of whole creation 1b) war, warfare, service, go out to war 1c) service
Usage: Occurs in 463 OT verses. KJV: appointed time, ([phrase]) army, ([phrase]) battle, company, host, service, soldiers, waiting upon, war(-fare). See also: Genesis 2:1; 1 Samuel 17:55; Psalms 24:10.
וּ/בָ֨אָה֙
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
Conj | V-Qal-3fs
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
בֵּ֣ית
bayith
H1004
"place"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.
Definition: nm place, origin, between
Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.
הַ/גַּנָּ֔ב
gannâb
H1590
"thief"
Art | N-ms
A thief is someone who takes things that dont belong to them, as seen in the Bible where Jesus teaches about a thief in the night. This word is used to describe people who steal. It appears in various Bible stories.
Definition: thief
Usage: Occurs in 17 OT verses. KJV: thief. See also: Exodus 22:1; Proverbs 29:24; Psalms 50:18.
וְ/אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Conj | Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
בֵּ֛ית
bayith
H1004
"place"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.
Definition: nm place, origin, between
Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.
הַ/נִּשְׁבָּ֥ע
shâbaʻ
H7650
"to swear"
Art | V-Niphal
This Hebrew word means to swear an oath, like making a promise or vow. In the Bible, it is used when someone is making a serious promise, often with God as a witness. The KJV translates it as adjure or take an oath.
Definition: 1) to swear, adjure 1a) (Qal) sworn (participle) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to swear, take an oath 1b2) to swear (of Jehovah by Himself) 1b3) to curse 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to take an oath 1c2) to adjure
Usage: Occurs in 175 OT verses. KJV: adjure, charge (by an oath, with an oath), feed to the full (by mistake for H7646 (שָׂבַע)), take an oath, [idiom] straitly, (cause to, make to) swear. See also: Genesis 21:23; Judges 21:18; Psalms 15:4.
בִּ/שְׁמִ֖/י
shêm
H8034
"name"
Prep | N-ms | Suff
In the Bible, a name represents a person's identity, honor, and character, like God's name symbolizing His power and authority. It appears in Genesis and other books, often referring to God's name or a person's reputation. This concept is central to understanding biblical identity.
Definition: 1) name 1a) name 1b) reputation, fame, glory 1c) the Name (as designation of God) 1d) memorial, monument Aramaic equivalent: shum (שֻׁם "name" H8036)
Usage: Occurs in 771 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] base, (in-) fame(-ous), named(-d), renown, report. See also: Genesis 2:11; Exodus 3:15; Deuteronomy 16:6.
לַ/שָּׁ֑קֶר
sheqer
H8267
"deception"
Prep | N-ms
This word refers to deception or falsehood, often implying a sense of betrayal or disappointment. It's used in the Bible to describe lies, false testimony, or deceitful behavior, like in Psalm 116:11, where the psalmist says all men are liars.
Definition: 1) lie, deception, disappointment, falsehood 1a) deception (what deceives or disappoints or betrays one) 1b) deceit, fraud, wrong 1b1) fraudulently, wrongfully (as adverb) 1c) falsehood (injurious in testimony) 1c1) testify falsehood, false oath, swear falsely 1d) falsity (of false or self-deceived prophets) 1e) lie, falsehood (in general) 1e1) false tongue 1f) in vain
Usage: Occurs in 109 OT verses. KJV: without a cause, deceit(-ful), false(-hood, -ly), feignedly, liar, [phrase] lie, lying, vain (thing), wrongfully. See also: Exodus 5:9; Proverbs 25:18; Psalms 7:15.
וְ/לָ֨נֶה֙
lûwn
H3885
"to lodge"
Conj | V-Qal-3fs
To grumble or complain, this word describes a negative attitude of discontent or murmuring. It is used in the Bible to describe people who are unhappy or stubborn.
Definition: 1) to lodge, stop over, pass the night, abide 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lodge, pass the night 1a2) to abide, remain (fig.) 1b) (Hiphil) to cause to rest, lodge 1c) (Hithpalpel) to dwell, abide
Usage: Occurs in 78 OT verses. KJV: abide (all night), continue, dwell, endure, grudge, be left, lie all night, (cause to) lodge (all night, in, -ing, this night), (make to) murmur, remain, tarry (all night, that night). See also: Genesis 19:2; Judges 19:20; Psalms 25:13.
בְּ/ת֣וֹךְ
tâvek
H8432
"midst"
Prep | N-ms
This word refers to the middle or center of something, such as a group of people or a physical space. It can also mean among or between things, as seen in various Bible translations.
Definition: 1) midst, middle 1a) midst, middle 1b) into, through (after verbs of motion) 1c) among (of a number of persons) 1d) between (of things arranged by twos) 1e) from among (as to take or separate etc)
Usage: Occurs in 390 OT verses. KJV: among(-st), [idiom] between, half, [idiom] (there-, where-), in(-to), middle, mid(-night), midst (among), [idiom] out (of), [idiom] through, [idiom] with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:6; Numbers 35:5; 2 Chronicles 32:4.
בֵּית֔/וֹ
bayith
H1004
"place"
N-ms | Suff
The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.
Definition: nm place, origin, between
Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.
וְ/כִלַּ֖תּ/וּ
kâlâh
H3615
"to end"
Conj | V-Piel-3fs | Suff
This Hebrew word means to finish or end something, like completing a task or using up a resource, as seen in Genesis 2:2 where God finished creating the heavens and earth.
Definition: : finish 1) to accomplish, cease, consume, determine, end, fail, finish, be complete, be accomplished, be ended, be at an end, be finished, be spent 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be complete, be at an end 1a2) to be completed, be finished 1a3) to be accomplished, be fulfilled 1a4) to be determined, be plotted (bad sense) 1a5) to be spent, be used up 1a6) to waste away, be exhausted, fail 1a7) to come to an end, vanish, perish, be destroyed 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to complete, bring to an end, finish 1b2) to complete (a period of time) 1b3) to finish (doing a thing) 1b4) to make an end, end 1b5) to accomplish, fulfil, bring to pass 1b6) to accomplish, determine (in thought) 1b7) to put an end to, cause to cease 1b8) to cause to fail, exhaust, use up, spend 1b9) to destroy, exterminate 1c) (Pual) to be finished, be ended, be completed
Usage: Occurs in 199 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, cease, consume (away), determine, destroy (utterly), be (when... were) done, (be an) end (of), expire, (cause to) fail, faint, finish, fulfil, [idiom] fully, [idiom] have, leave (off), long, bring to pass, wholly reap, make clean riddance, spend, quite take away, waste. See also: Genesis 2:1; 2 Chronicles 29:17; Psalms 18:38.
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
Conj | 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.
עֵצָ֥י/ו
ʻêts
H6086
"tree"
N-mp | Suff
This Hebrew word for tree or wood refers to a strong and firm object, like a tree or a wooden plank, as seen in the carpentry work of Jesus' earthly father Joseph in Matthew 13:55.
Definition: : wood 1) tree, wood, timber, stock, plank, stalk, stick, gallows 1a) tree, trees 1b) wood, pieces of wood, gallows, firewood, cedar-wood, woody flax
Usage: Occurs in 289 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carpenter, gallows, helve, [phrase] pine, plank, staff, stalk, stick, stock, timber, tree, wood. See also: Genesis 1:11; Joshua 9:23; Psalms 1:3.
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
Conj | 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.
אֲבָנָֽי/ו
ʼeben
H68
"stone"
N-fp | Suff
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.
Study Notes — Zechariah 5:4
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Zechariah 5:4 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Zechariah 5:4
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Zechariah 5:4
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Zechariah 5:4
- Trapp's Commentary on Zechariah 5:4
- Ellicott's Commentary on Zechariah 5:4
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Zechariah 5:4
- Cambridge Bible on Zechariah 5:4
- Barnes' Notes on Zechariah 5:4
- Whedon's Commentary on Zechariah 5:4
- Sermons on Zechariah 5:4
Context — The Vision of the Flying Scroll
2“What do you see?” asked the angel. “I see a flying scroll,” I replied, “twenty cubits long and ten cubits wide. ”
3Then he told me, “This is the curse that is going out over the face of all the land, for according to one side of the scroll, every thief will be removed; and according to the other side, every perjurer will be removed.
4I will send it out, declares the LORD of Hosts, and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of him who swears falsely by My name. It will remain inside his house and destroy it, down to its timbers and stones.”
5Then the angel who was speaking with me came forward and told me, “Now lift up your eyes and see what is approaching.” 6“What is it?” I asked. And he replied, “A measuring basket is going forth.” Then he continued, “This is their iniquity in all the land.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Habakkuk 2:9–11 | Woe to him who builds his house by unjust gain, to place his nest on high and escape the hand of disaster! You have plotted shame for your house by cutting off many peoples and forfeiting your life. For the stones will cry out from the wall, and the rafters will echo it from the woodwork. |
| 2 | Proverbs 3:33 | The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked, but He blesses the home of the righteous. |
| 3 | Malachi 3:5 | “Then I will draw near to you for judgment. And I will be a swift witness against sorcerers and adulterers and perjurers, against oppressors of the widowed and fatherless, and against those who defraud laborers of their wages and deny justice to the foreigner but do not fear Me,” says the LORD of Hosts. |
| 4 | Leviticus 14:34–45 | “When you enter the land of Canaan, which I am giving you as your possession, and I put a contamination of mildew into a house in that land, the owner of the house shall come and tell the priest, ‘Something like mildew has appeared in my house.’ The priest must order that the house be cleared before he enters it to examine the mildew, so that nothing in the house will become unclean. After this, the priest shall go in to inspect the house. He is to examine the house, and if the mildew on the walls consists of green or red depressions that appear to be beneath the surface of the wall, the priest shall go outside the doorway of the house and close it up for seven days. On the seventh day the priest is to return and inspect the house. If the mildew has spread on the walls, he must order that the contaminated stones be pulled out and thrown into an unclean place outside the city. And he shall have the inside of the house scraped completely and the plaster that is scraped off dumped into an unclean place outside the city. So different stones must be obtained to replace the contaminated ones, as well as additional mortar to replaster the house. If the mildew reappears in the house after the stones have been torn out and the house has been scraped and replastered, the priest must come and inspect it. If the mildew has spread in the house, it is a destructive mildew; the house is unclean. It must be torn down with its stones, its timbers, and all its plaster, and taken outside the city to an unclean place. |
| 5 | Job 18:15 | Fire resides in his tent; burning sulfur rains down on his dwelling. |
| 6 | James 5:2–3 | Your riches have rotted and moths have eaten your clothes. Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and consume your flesh like fire. You have hoarded treasure in the last days. |
| 7 | Deuteronomy 7:26 | And you must not bring any detestable thing into your house, or you, like it, will be set apart for destruction. You are to utterly detest and abhor it, because it is set apart for destruction. |
| 8 | Job 20:26 | Total darkness is reserved for his treasures. A fire unfanned will consume him and devour what is left in his tent. |
Zechariah 5:4 Summary
Zechariah 5:4 is a warning from God that He will send a curse to punish those who are dishonest and swear falsely in His name. This curse will completely destroy the households of those who disobey Him, just like a strong judgment. We can learn from this verse that honesty and integrity are very important to God, and we should strive to live in a way that honors Him, as seen in verses like Proverbs 10:9 and Matthew 5:33. By following God's commands and living with integrity, we can avoid His judgment and live in a way that pleases Him.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the flying scroll in Zechariah 5:1-4?
The flying scroll represents the curse that will go out over the face of all the land, removing every thief and perjurer, as stated in Zechariah 5:3, and will destroy the houses of those who disobey God, as seen in Zechariah 5:4.
Why does the curse specifically target those who swear falsely by God's name?
Swearing falsely by God's name is a serious offense, as it involves taking the Lord's name in vain, which is prohibited in the Ten Commandments, Exodus 20:7, and is considered a form of blasphemy.
What does it mean for the curse to 'remain inside his house and destroy it, down to its timbers and stones'?
This phrase indicates that the curse will have a complete and thorough impact on the household, much like the judgment described in Matthew 24:51, where the master of the house will cut the wicked servant to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites.
Is this curse limited to the Old Testament era, or is it still relevant today?
While the specific context of Zechariah 5:4 is addressed to the Israelites, the principle of God's judgment on sin and disobedience is still relevant today, as seen in verses like Hebrews 10:30, which quotes Deuteronomy 32:35-36, and reminds us that God will judge His people.
Reflection Questions
- How do I ensure that my own life and household are free from the influence of thievery and false oaths, and instead reflect the character of God?
- In what ways can I apply the warning of Zechariah 5:4 to my own relationships and community, promoting honesty and integrity among those around me?
- What are some areas in my life where I may be 'swearing falsely' by God's name, and how can I repent and align myself with His truth?
- How can I trust in God's sovereignty and justice, knowing that He will ultimately bring about righteousness and judgment, as described in Zechariah 5:4 and other scriptures like Psalm 37:28?
Gill's Exposition on Zechariah 5:4
I will bring it forth, saith the Lord of hosts,.... The roll was come forth, and was flying abroad; but the curse and wrath of God, signified by it, is what God would bring forth out of his
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Zechariah 5:4
I will bring it forth, saith the LORD of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name: and it shall remain in the midst of his
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Zechariah 5:4
I will bring it forth; so exemplarily will I execute this judgment, that it shall appear I do it, my hand, saith God, shall be seen in it. It shall enter, none shall be able to keep it out, this curse shall come with commission from me, into the house of the thief, where he laid up that he got by theft, and thought to rejoice in it; or by house understand all his estate and goods, with his family and posterity. The thief; the robbers of God and of their neighbours, and every other notorious transgressor of the precepts of the second table. And into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name: this doth explain that of the third verse, and it is plain that the perjured person is here threatened, every one that dares call God to witness to a falsehood, and imprecate themselves if they speak not truth. It shall remain; this curse shall be a long curse, it shall stick close to them and theirs, like Gehazi’ s leprosy. In the midst of his house; as in the heart and centre of their house, like a sword in the midst of the bowels, or like a disease that seizeth the heart. Shall consume it; though it do not destroy suddenly, it shall destroy surely. With the timber thereof, and the stones thereof; the strength of it, nothing shall remain, as when both timber and stones of a house are consumed and wasted. Such execution shall be done on those, whose name and place shall be blotted out.
Trapp's Commentary on Zechariah 5:4
Zechariah 5:4 I will bring it forth, saith the LORD of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name: and it shall remain in the midst of his house, and shall consume it with the timber thereof and the stones thereof.Ver. 4. I will bring it forth] sc. Out of my treasuries or storehouses of plagues and punishments, Deuteronomy 32:34. Or, That which thou hast seen in vision I will put in action; I will produce it into the open light, into the theatre of the world; their faults shall be written in their foreheads, their sins shall go before to judgment, my visible vengeance shall overtake them. And it shall enter into the house of the thief] Which he calleth his castle; and where he thinks himself most secure, as out of the reach of God’ s rod; as if he could mote himself up against God’ s fire. But what saith Bildad? "His confidence shall be rooted out of his tabernacle, and it shall bring him to the king of terrors. It shall dwell in his tabernacle, because it is none of his: brimstone shall be scattered upon his habitation," Job 18:14-15, so that if the fire of God’ s wrath do but touch it, all is on a light flame. He will unkennel these foxes; and drag Cacus out of his den, to his deserved punishment. Dioclesian, the persecutor (one of those Latrones publici, public robbers, as Cato called them), giving over his empire, after he had sufficiently feathered his nest, decreed to lead the rest of his life quietly.
But he escaped not so; for after that his house was wholly consumed with lightning and a flame of fire that fell from heaven, he, hiding himself, for fear of the lightning, died within a while after. And into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name] Hence Ribera gathereth that by the whole earth in the former verse is meant Judaea only: because none but Jews swore by the name of the true God, who is indeed the proper object of an oath, Isaiah 65:16 Jeremiah 12:6. Howbeit in lawful contracts with an infidel or idolater oaths by false gods may be admitted, and are binding. As for perjury, it is a provoking sin; as containing three great evils. 1. The uttering or upholding of a lie. 2. The calling upon God to testify and justify a lie. 3. The praying for a curse upon a man’ s self; and beseeching God to be a swift witness against him, Malachi 3:1-7; as he was indeed against Zedekiah, Narcissus in the ecclesiastical history, Earl Godwin in Polydor, Virgil, Rodulphus, Duke of Suevia, Ladislaus, King of Hungary, Dr London (Act. and Mon. fol. 1114), Richard Long, a soldier at Calais in King Henry VIII’ s days; who, deposing falsely against William Smith, curate of Calais shortly after, upon a displeasure of his wife, desperately drowned himself.
Ellicott's Commentary on Zechariah 5:4
(4) It.—The curse, as borne on the scroll. Bring forth.—As it were, from His treasure-house, where all pre-ordained events are stored up (Deuteronomy 32:34-35). And shall consume it.—In Herodotus (Book vi:86) there is an interesting parallel to this verse. A Milesian had deposited with Glaucus a sum of money on trust. When the sons of the depositor came to claim it, Glaucus consulted the oracle of Delphi whether he might perjure himself and keep the money. The priestess told him that it was best for the present to do as he desired, for that death was the common lot of the honest and the dishonest. “Yet,” added she, “Oath hath a son, nameless, handless, footless, but swift he pursues, until he seize and destroy the whole race and house.”
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Zechariah 5:4
Verse 4. Into the house of him] Babylon, the house or city of Nebuchadnezzar, who was a public plunderer, and a most glaring idolater.
Cambridge Bible on Zechariah 5:4
4. it shall remain] abide, R. V., “until it has accomplished that for which it was sent, its utter destruction.” Pusey. Mr Wright in his commentary quotes, in illustration of the curse abiding till it has accomplished its mission, the story of Glaucus (Herod. vi. 86), who consulted the oracle as to whether he were at liberty to perjure himself, and retain for his own use a sum of money which had been committed to his trust. The response was that though such a course would be for his present gain, “yet an oath hath a nameless son, handless and footless, yet swift in pursuit till he seize and destroy the whole race and house.” And accordingly, though Glaucus restored the money and asked forgiveness for the thought of his heart, it was observed that, since to design the evil was to incur the guilt of executing it, his family became extinct. The Seventh Vision. The Woman in the Ephah, Zechariah 5:5-11. Invited again by the Interpreting Angel to contemplate what was coming into view, Zechariah 5:5, Zechariah sees an Ephah, or large measure, appearing on the scene, which he is taught to regard as a representation of the wicked and their doom, Zechariah 5:6. From the mouth of the ephah a circular lid or cover of lead is temporarily lifted up, and a woman is seen sitting in the midst of the ephah, Zechariah 5:7. This woman, the Angel explains, is a personification of wickedness; and he proceeds to cast her down again into the ephah, from which she had attempted to rise, and to press down the weighty leaden cover on the mouth of the ephah, so as to confine her securely within it, Zechariah 5:8. As the prophet gazes again, two women, furnished with stork-like wings, lift up the ephah and bear it swiftly through the air with the woman shut up in it, Zechariah 5:9.
On his enquiring its destination, Zechariah 5:10, he learns from the Angel that it is to be carried into the land of Shinar, and there to find an abiding dwelling-place, Zechariah 5:11.
Barnes' Notes on Zechariah 5:4
I will bring it forth - Out of the treasure-house, as it were; as he says, “He bringeth forth the wind out of His treasures” Jeremiah 10:13; Jeremiah 51:16; and, “Is not this laid up in store with
Whedon's Commentary on Zechariah 5:4
2. The interpreting angel calls the attention of the prophet to the new vision by means of a question (compare Zechariah 4:2, and see references there). The roll was unfolded, so that its immense size could be recognized.
Sermons on Zechariah 5:4
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
It Ends With Me! Breaking Bloodline Curses by Vlad Savchuk | Vlad Savchuk delivers a powerful message on breaking generational curses, emphasizing that many struggles stem from ancestral demons that are passed down through family lines. He p |
|
Home Blessings by C.H. Spurgeon | C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the significance of a God-fearing household in his sermon 'Home Blessings,' illustrating that divine protection and blessings are bestowed upon homes led b |
|
God Changeth Not by Joshua Daniel | In this sermon, Joshua Daniel discusses the need for a revival of faith and a return to God's unchanging truth. He emphasizes that while God and the gospel remain constant, it is o |
|
|
I Am the God That Changeth Not by Joshua Daniel | In this sermon, Joshua Daniel emphasizes the importance of recognizing our accountability to God. He warns that without the blessing of God and the guidance of His Word, we are los |
|
A Cry Against Wicked Youth! by David Wilkerson | David Wilkerson delivers a powerful sermon titled 'A Cry Against Wicked Youth!' where he draws parallels between the wickedness of Nineveh and the moral decline of modern youth. He |
|
Epistle 214 by George Fox | George Fox preaches about the power of the Lord God being over those who pray sincerely, contrasting it with those who pray insincerely with an earthly, dark spirit. He warns again |