Zechariah 8:9

Zechariah 8:9 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

This is what the LORD of Hosts says: “Let your hands be strong, you who now hear these words spoken by the prophets who were present when the foundations were laid to rebuild the temple, the house of the LORD of Hosts.

King James Version KJV

¶ Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, which were in the day that the foundation of the house of the LORD of hosts was laid, that the temple might be built.

American Standard Version ASV

Thus saith Jehovah of hosts: Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words from the mouth of the prophets that were in the day that the foundation of the house of Jehovah of hosts was laid, even the temple, that it might be built.

Bible in Basic English BBE

This is what the Lord of armies has said: Let your hands be strong, you who are now hearing these words from the mouths of the prophets, that is to say, in the days when the base of the house of the Lord of armies has been put in place for the building of the house, that is the Temple.

Free Bible Version FBV

This is what the Lord Almighty says. Be strong, so that the Temple may be completed. Everyone who is here today is listening to the same words from the prophets who were present on the day when the foundation of the Lord Almighty's Temple was laid.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Thus sayth the Lord of hostes, Let your hands be strong, ye that heare in these dayes these words by the mouth of the Prophets, which were in the day, that the foundation of the House of the Lord of hostes was laide, that the Temple might be builded.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

Thus said Jehovah of Hosts: Let your hands be strong, Ye who are hearing in these days these words from the mouth of the prophets, That in the day the house of Jehovah of Hosts Hath been founded, the temple [is] to be built.

World English Bible WEB

The LORD of Armies says: “Let your hands be strong, you who hear in these days these words from the mouth of the prophets who were in the day that the foundation of the house of the LORD of Armies was laid, even the temple, that it might be built.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, who were in the day when the foundation of the house of the LORD of hosts was laid, that the temple might be built.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

Thus saith the Lord of hosts: Let your hands be strengthened, you that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, in the day that the house of the Lord of hosts was founded, that the temple might be built.

Translation for Translators T4T

The Commander of the armies of angels also says this: “When the foundation for my temple was laid, there were prophets there who proclaimed messages from me. Some of you heard what those prophets said. So be brave/courageous [MTY] while you are building the temple, in order that you may finish building it.

Study Highlights

Key words in the translations above are automatically highlighted. Names of God and Jesus are marked in purple, the Holy Spirit in orange, divine action verbs are underlined, and repeated key words are highlighted in yellow.

Enable Study Highlights

God & Jesus

Holy Spirit

Divine Actions

Repeated Words

Berean Amplified Bible — Zechariah 8:9

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 8:9 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB כֹּֽה אָמַר֮ יְהוָ֣ה צְבָאוֹת֒ תֶּחֱזַ֣קְנָה יְדֵי/כֶ֔ם הַ/שֹּֽׁמְעִים֙ בַּ/יָּמִ֣ים הָ/אֵ֔לֶּה אֵ֖ת הַ/דְּבָרִ֣ים הָ/אֵ֑לֶּה מִ/פִּי֙ הַ/נְּבִיאִ֔ים אֲ֠שֶׁר בְּ/י֞וֹם יֻסַּ֨ד בֵּית יְהוָ֧ה צְבָא֛וֹת הַ/הֵיכָ֖ל לְ/הִבָּנֽוֹת

כֹּֽה kôh H3541 thus Adv

אָמַר֮ ʼâmar H559 to say V-Qal-Perf-3ms

יְהוָ֣ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

צְבָאוֹת֒ tsâbâʼ H6635 army N-cp

תֶּחֱזַ֣קְנָה châzaq H2388 to strengthen V-Qal-Juss-3fp

יְדֵי/כֶ֔ם yâd H3027 hand N-cd | Suff

הַ/שֹּֽׁמְעִים֙ shâmaʻ H8085 to hear Art | V-Qal

בַּ/יָּמִ֣ים yôwm H3117 day Prep | N-mp

הָ/אֵ֔לֶּה ʼêl-leh H428 these Art | Pron

אֵ֖ת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

הַ/דְּבָרִ֣ים dâbâr H1697 Chronicles Art | N-mp

הָ/אֵ֑לֶּה ʼêl-leh H428 these Art | Pron

מִ/פִּי֙ peh H6310 lip Prep | N-ms

הַ/נְּבִיאִ֔ים nâbîyʼ H5030 prophet Art | N-mp

אֲ֠שֶׁר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

בְּ/י֞וֹם yôwm H3117 day Prep | N-ms

יֻסַּ֨ד yâçad H3245 to found V-Pual-Perf-3ms

בֵּית bayith H1004 place N-ms

יְהוָ֧ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper

צְבָא֛וֹת tsâbâʼ H6635 army N-cp

הַ/הֵיכָ֖ל hêykâl H1964 temple Art | N-ms

לְ/הִבָּנֽוֹת bânâh H1129 to build Prep | V-Niphal-Inf-a

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 8:9

כֹּֽה kôh H3541 "thus" Adv

This Hebrew word means thus or in this manner. It can also indicate a location or time, such as here or now. The KJV translates it in various ways, including also, here, and so.

Definition: 1) thus, here, in this manner 1a) thus, so 1b) here, here and there 1c) until now, until now...until then, meanwhile Aramaic equivalent: kah (כָּה "thus" H3542)

Usage: Occurs in 541 OT verses. KJV: also, here, + hitherto, like, on the other side, so (and much), such, on that manner, (on) this (manner, side, way, way and that way), + mean while, yonder. See also: Genesis 15:5; 1 Kings 22:20; Isaiah 7:7.

אָמַר֮ ʼâmar H559 "to say" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

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.

צְבָאוֹת֒ 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.

תֶּחֱזַ֣קְנָה châzaq H2388 "to strengthen" V-Qal-Juss-3fp

To strengthen means to be strong or courageous, and can also mean to seize or conquer, as seen in various KJV translations.

Definition: : strengthen/support/encourage 1) to strengthen, prevail, harden, be strong, become strong, be courageous, be firm, grow firm, be resolute, be sore 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be strong, grow strong 1a1a) to prevail, prevail upon 1a1b) to be firm, be caught fast, be secure 1a1c) to press, be urgent 1a1d) to grow stout, grow rigid, grow hard (bad sense) 1a1e) to be severe, be grievous 1a2) to strengthen 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to make strong 1b2) to restore to strength, give strength 1b3) to strengthen, sustain, encourage 1b4) to make strong, make bold, encourage 1b5) to make firm 1b6) to make rigid, make hard 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to make strong, strengthen 1c2) to make firm 1c3) to display strength 1c4) to make severe 1c5) to support 1c6) to repair 1c7) to prevail, prevail upon 1c8) to have or take or keep hold of, retain, hold up, sustain, support 1c9) to hold, contain 1d) (Hithpael) 1d1) to strengthen oneself 1d2) to put forth strength, use one's strength 1d3) to withstand 1d4) to hold strongly with

Usage: Occurs in 266 OT verses. KJV: aid, amend, [idiom] calker, catch, cleave, confirm, be constant, constrain, continue, be of good (take) courage(-ous, -ly), encourage (self), be established, fasten, force, fortify, make hard, harden, help, (lay) hold (fast), lean, maintain, play the man, mend, become (wax) mighty, prevail, be recovered, repair, retain, seize, be (wax) sore, strengthen (self), be stout, be (make, shew, wax) strong(-er), be sure, take (hold), be urgent, behave self valiantly, withstand. See also: Genesis 19:16; 1 Chronicles 22:13; Psalms 27:14.

יְדֵי/כֶ֔ם yâd H3027 "hand" N-cd | Suff

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.

הַ/שֹּֽׁמְעִים֙ shâmaʻ H8085 "to hear" Art | V-Qal

To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.

Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound

Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.

בַּ/יָּמִ֣ים yôwm H3117 "day" Prep | N-mp

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.

הָ/אֵ֔לֶּה ʼêl-leh H428 "these" Art | 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.

אֵ֖ת 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.

הַ/דְּבָרִ֣ים dâbâr H1697 "Chronicles" Art | N-mp

A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.

Definition: This name means word, speaking

Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.

הָ/אֵ֑לֶּה ʼêl-leh H428 "these" Art | Pron

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.

מִ/פִּי֙ peh H6310 "lip" Prep | N-ms

In the Bible, this Hebrew word refers to the mouth, lips, or edge of something, and can also mean a portion or side of something. It is often used to describe speech or the act of speaking. This word appears in various forms, such as mouth, lip, or edge.

Definition: : lip/mouth peh 1) mouth 1a) mouth (of man) 1b) mouth (as organ of speech) 1c) mouth (of animals) 1d) mouth, opening, orifice (of a well, river, etc) 1e) extremity, end pim 2) a weight equal to one third of a shekel, occurs only in 1Sa 13:21

Usage: Occurs in 460 OT verses. KJV: accord(-ing as, -ing to), after, appointment, assent, collar, command(-ment), [idiom] eat, edge, end, entry, [phrase] file, hole, [idiom] in, mind, mouth, part, portion, [idiom] (should) say(-ing), sentence, skirt, sound, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, tenor, [idiom] to, [phrase] two-edged, wish, word. See also: Genesis 4:11; Deuteronomy 21:17; Ezra 9:11.

הַ/נְּבִיאִ֔ים nâbîyʼ H5030 "prophet" Art | N-mp

A prophet is someone who speaks for God, like a spokesperson. This word is used in the Bible to describe true and false prophets, like those in 1 and 2 Kings.

Definition: 1) spokesman, speaker, prophet 1a) prophet 1b) false prophet 1c) heathen prophet Aramaic equivalent: ne.vi (נְבִיא "prophet" H5029)

Usage: Occurs in 288 OT verses. KJV: prophecy, that prophesy, prophet. See also: Genesis 20:7; 2 Kings 24:2; Psalms 51:2.

אֲ֠שֶׁר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

בְּ/י֞וֹם yôwm H3117 "day" Prep | N-ms

יֻסַּ֨ד yâçad H3245 "to found" V-Pual-Perf-3ms

To found or establish something is the meaning of this Hebrew word. It also means to sit down together and consult, as in a meeting or council.

Definition: 1) to found, fix, establish, lay foundation 1a) (Qal) to found, establish, begin 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to fix or seat themselves close together, sit in conclave 1b2) to be founded 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to found 1c2) to establish, appoint, ordain 1d) (Pual) to be founded, be laid 1e) (Hophal) to be founded

Usage: Occurs in 41 OT verses. KJV: appoint, take counsel, establish, (lay the, lay for a) found(-ation), instruct, lay, ordain, set, [idiom] sure. See also: Exodus 9:18; Psalms 89:12; Psalms 2:2.

בֵּית 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.

יְהוָ֧ה 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.

צְבָא֛וֹת tsâbâʼ H6635 "army" N-cp

הַ/הֵיכָ֖ל hêykâl H1964 "temple" Art | N-ms

The Hebrew word for a large public building like a palace or temple, used to describe God's temple in Jerusalem. It appears in the Bible to talk about the temple as God's palace. In the Bible, it is translated as 'palace' or 'temple'.

Definition: : temple 1) palace, temple, nave, sanctuary 1a) palace 1b) temple (palace of God as king) 1c) hall, nave (of Ezekiel's temple) 1d) temple (of heavenly temple)

Usage: Occurs in 76 OT verses. KJV: palace, temple. See also: 1 Samuel 1:9; Psalms 138:2; Psalms 5:8.

לְ/הִבָּנֽוֹת bânâh H1129 "to build" Prep | V-Niphal-Inf-a

The Hebrew word bânâh means to build something, like a house or a family. It can also mean to establish or repair something, and is used in various contexts throughout the Bible.

Definition: 1) to build, rebuild, establish, cause to continue 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to build, rebuild 1a2) to build a house (ie, establish a family) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be built 1b2) to be rebuilt 1b3) established (of restored exiles) (fig.) 1b4) established (made permanent) 1b5) to be built up (of childless wife becoming the mother of a family through the children of a concubine) Aramaic equivalent: be.nah (בְּנָה "to build" H1124)

Usage: Occurs in 345 OT verses. KJV: (begin to) build(-er), obtain children, make, repair, set (up), [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 2:22; 1 Kings 8:48; 2 Chronicles 20:8.

Study Notes — Zechariah 8:9

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Zechariah 8:9 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Zechariah 8:9
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Zechariah 8:9
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Zechariah 8:9
Trapp's Commentary on Zechariah 8:9
Ellicott's Commentary on Zechariah 8:9
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Zechariah 8:9
Cambridge Bible on Zechariah 8:9
Barnes' Notes on Zechariah 8:9
Whedon's Commentary on Zechariah 8:9
Sermons on Zechariah 8:9

Context — The Restoration of Jerusalem

7This is what the LORD of Hosts says: “I will save My people from the land of the east and from the land of the west. 8I will bring them back to dwell in Jerusalem, where they will be My people, and I will be their faithful and righteous God.”

9This is what the LORD of Hosts says: “Let your hands be strong, you who now hear these words spoken by the prophets who were present when the foundations were laid to rebuild the temple, the house of the LORD of Hosts.

10For before those days neither man nor beast received wages, nor was there safety from the enemy for anyone who came or went, for I had turned every man against his neighbor. 11But now I will not treat the remnant of this people as I did in the past,” declares the LORD of Hosts.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Isaiah 35:4	Say to those with anxious hearts: “Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance. With divine retribution He will come to save you.”
2	1 Chronicles 22:13	Then you will succeed, if you carefully follow the statutes and ordinances that the LORD commanded Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.
3	Ezra 5:1–2	Later, the prophets Haggai and Zechariah son of Iddo prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them. Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jozadak rose up and began to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them, helping them.
4	Haggai 2:21	“Tell Zerubbabel governor of Judah that I am about to shake the heavens and the earth:
5	Zechariah 8:13	As you have been a curse among the nations, O house of Judah and house of Israel, so I will save you, and you will be a blessing. Do not be afraid; let your hands be strong.”
6	1 Chronicles 28:20	David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do it. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will neither fail you nor forsake you before all the work for the service of the house of the LORD is finished.
7	Joshua 1:6	Be strong and courageous, for you shall give these people the inheritance of the land that I swore to their fathers I would give them.
8	Haggai 1:1	In the second year of the reign of Darius, on the first day of the sixth month, the word of the LORD came through Haggai the prophet to Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, stating
9	2 Timothy 2:1	You therefore, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
10	Ephesians 6:10	Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.

Zechariah 8:9 Summary

This verse is a message from God to the people who are working to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. He tells them to be strong and trust in Him, because He is the one who is guiding and empowering them to do this work. Just as God instructed the Israelites to be strong and courageous in Joshua 1:6-9, He is calling us to trust in His strength and power to accomplish the tasks He has set before us. By trusting in God's power and promises, we can have confidence and courage to face any challenge, just as the Israelites did when they rebuilt the temple (Ezra 5:1-2, Haggai 1:1-15).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the prophets being present when the foundations of the temple were laid?

The prophets being present when the foundations of the temple were laid signifies that God is fulfilling His promise to rebuild the temple, as spoken through the prophets, and this event is a crucial part of God's plan to restore His people, as seen in Ezra 5:1-2 and Haggai 1:1-15.

Why does God tell the people to let their hands be strong?

God tells the people to let their hands be strong because He wants them to trust in Him and have confidence in the work they are doing to rebuild the temple, just as He instructed Joshua to be strong and courageous in Joshua 1:6-9.

What is the house of the LORD of Hosts referring to in this verse?

The house of the LORD of Hosts refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which is the dwelling place of God among His people, as described in 1 Kings 8:10-11 and 2 Chronicles 7:1-3.

How does this verse relate to the larger context of Zechariah's prophecy?

This verse is part of a larger prophecy in which God is promising to restore His people and rebuild the temple, as seen in Zechariah 8:7-8, and it serves as an encouragement to the people to trust in God's plan and have faith in His promise to bring them back to Jerusalem.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways that I can let my hands be strong and trust in God's plan for my life, just as the Israelites were called to do?
How can I apply the principle of trusting in God's strength and power to my own life and circumstances, even when the task ahead seems daunting?
In what ways can I be a part of rebuilding and restoring the spiritual temple of God in my own community, just as the Israelites were called to rebuild the physical temple?
What are some promises or prophecies that God has spoken over my life, and how can I trust in His faithfulness to fulfill them, just as He fulfilled His promise to the Israelites?

Gill's Exposition on Zechariah 8:9

Thus saith the Lord of hosts, Let your hands be strong,.... In going on with the building of the temple, which was typical of the church of God, since so many great and good things were promised by

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Zechariah 8:9

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, which were in the day that the foundation of the house of the LORD of

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Zechariah 8:9

Let your hands be strong; be of good courage, and hearten on each other to the expectation of God’ s promise, and the doing your duty. Ye, you returned captives, that hear: this is an argument to revive their courage, they hear God by his word very fairly proposing great things. In these days; in these days of Darius Hystaspes, some twelve, or fifteen, or perhaps eighteen years since the time I point at. In these days of hope from Darius favourably helping, but most from God assisting and blessing. These words, promises, exhortations, and counsels, by the mouth of the prophets, Haggai and Zechariah. In the day that the foundation of the house of the Lord of hosts was laid; in the second year of Cyrus, which if reckoned from his succeeding of his father Cambyses in the Persian crown, and his father-in-law Cyaxares in the crown of Media, which happened near about A.M. 3167, unto the second of Darius Hystaspes, A.M. 3485, that is eighteen years ago, will make it likely that Haggai and Zechariah are intended there: but to lay it so that this re-edifying of the temple be in the second of Darius Nothus, is to make these two prophets either to be silent one hundred and twelve years together, or to preach with little success and less complaint, for I do not remember that either of them chargeth this people with this particular fault. That the temple might be built, according to God’ s command and your duty.

Trapp's Commentary on Zechariah 8:9

Zechariah 8:9 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Let your hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets, which [were] in the day [that] the foundation of the house of the LORD of hosts was laid, that the temple might be built.Ver. 9. Let your hands be strong] Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us take heart of grace against all occasions of distrust and fear, 2 Corinthians 7:1; let us up and be doing, that the Lord may be with us; let us fear lest, such a promise being left us, yea, such a bundle of promises as are contained in the new covenant, any of you, by shrinking from the service, should seem to come short of it, Hebrews 4:1; or by faintly forwarding the temple work, should lose the things that he hath wrought, "but that ye receive a full reward," 2 John 1:8 "Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees," Isaiah 35:3-4. Say to them of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not, &c. Say the same every man to himself. Encourage yourselves in the Lord your God, as David did, 1 Samuel 30:6. Believe the prophets and ye shall prosper, 2 Chronicles 20:20. Do ye not hear in these days these words by the mouth of the prophets?] Myself and Haggai? And should the consolation of God be small unto you? Job 15:11; will you not trust us whom you have already tried? and take comfort by our words now, whom you have formerly found no liars?

Ellicott's Commentary on Zechariah 8:9

(9) Prophets.—It would almost seem that there were other prophets who spoke at the time besides Haggai and Zechariah. That the temple might be built.—These words seem to be used in reference to the resumption of the building (Haggai 1:15), when the people set themselves to work with a will, as contrasted with the first laying of the foundation in the second year of Cyrus, king of Persia, B.C. 537 (Ezra 3:10, compared with Zechariah 1:1), which could hardly be said to have been done “that the temple might be built,” since the work of building was then suspended for about sixteen years. There is no reason to suppose that LXX. read a different preposition before the infinitive “to be built,” since the Hebrew preposition “to,” or rather “with reference to,” often denotes “with reference to the time when,” i.e., “from the time that.” (Comp. Zechariah 1:1.)

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Zechariah 8:9

Verse 9. By the mouth of the prophets] The day or time of the foundation was about two years before, as this discourse of the prophet was in the fourth year of Darius. After this God raised up prophets among them.

Cambridge Bible on Zechariah 8:9

9–13. These verses, introduced by the phrase, Thus saith the Lord of hosts, and beginning and ending with the same words, Let your hands be strong, form one continuous exhortation to persevere in rebuilding the Temple. The exhortation is grounded upon a comparison of their condition, before and after the time when they began in earnest to build the house of the Lord. The improvement which had already taken place since that time should encourage them to go on building, cheered by fresh prophecies and promises from the mouth of the same prophets who had urged them to begin the work, and of Him whose messengers of good they were.

Barnes' Notes on Zechariah 8:9

Let your hands be strong - The fulfillment of God’s former promises are the earnest of the future; His former providences, of those to come.

Whedon's Commentary on Zechariah 8:9

9. The promises already uttered should be an inspiration. Let your hands be strong — Equivalent to be of good courage; and, being of good courage, they should undertake their tasks fearlessly (Haggai

Sermons on Zechariah 8:9

	Sermon	Description
	Dvd 11 - the Set Time to Favor Zion by Art Katz	This sermon delves into the deep spiritual journey of surrendering all to God, even the best virtues and spirituality that we hold dear, in order to attain a union with God that tr
	The Glory of the Last Days by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the preacher discusses a biblical story where the Israelites were trapped at the Red Sea with the enemy army behind them. He compares this situation to the challeng
	(Beginning a New Year) Looking in Three Directions by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a servant of the Lord who faced opposition from a high official because his family members had embraced a simple lifestyle. The off
	Living a Life of Being Unoffended by Don Courville	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of obedience and faith in following God's plan. He shares a personal story of how he had to obey and take a leap of faith in or
	The Discipline of Disease - 24 by Jack Hibbs	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the training of Navy SEALs and the bond that is formed between partners through intense and life-threatening experiences. He draws a paralle
	K-448 Israel's Future Expulsion by Art Katz	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the insignificance of our worldly accomplishments and knowledge in the eyes of God. He describes a terrifying wilderness where one is strippe
	Charles Wesley by Michael Haykin	In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the amazing and mysterious love of God. He relates it to the revival that took place in the 18th century, where people were set free from s