Haggai 2:23
In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, will I take thee, O Zerubbabel, my servant, the son of Shealtiel, saith the LORD, and will make thee as a signet: for I have chosen thee, saith the LORD of hosts.
Haggai 2:23 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the LORD of hosts is speaking to Zerubbabel, who was the governor of Judah during the time of the restoration of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The term "In that day" refers to a future time when the Lord will intervene and fulfill His promises to His people. The Lord declares that He will take Zerubbabel, who is described as His servant and the son of Shealtiel, and make him as a signet. A signet was a personal seal that was used to mark documents, showing authority and authenticity. By making Zerubbabel as a signet, the Lord is indicating that He has chosen Zerubbabel for a special task and has placed His seal of approval on him. This verse conveys the idea that Zerubbabel was chosen by God to play a significant role in the restoration of Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple. It serves as a reminder of the Lord's sovereignty and His ability to use His chosen servants to accomplish His purposes.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Haggai, the prophet delivers a message from the Lord to Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the significance of Zerubbabel as a servant of the Lord who has been chosen for a specific purpose. The word "signet" in this context symbolizes authority and approval, indicating that Zerubbabel has been selected by God to fulfill an important role. The mention of Zerubbabel's lineage, as the son of Shealtiel, further emphasizes his position as a key figure in the restoration of Jerusalem. Through this verse, we see God's sovereignty and power at work, demonstrating His ability to raise up individuals and empower them to carry out His plans. The reference to Zerubbabel as a signet signifies his importance in God's divine plan for the restoration of His people, highlighting the theme of God's faithfulness and purpose in the midst of challenges and opposition.
Haggai 2:23 in other translations
American Standard Version
In that day, saith Jehovah of hosts, will I take thee, O Zerubbabel, my servant, the son of Shealtiel, saith Jehovah, and will make thee as a signet; for I have chosen thee, saith Jehovah of hosts.
World English Bible
In that day, says Yahweh of Armies, will I take you, Zerubbabel, my servant, the son of Shealtiel,’ says Yahweh, ‘and will make you as a signet, for I have chosen you,’ says Yahweh of Armies.”
Douay-Rheims
And I will overthrow the throne of kingdoms, and will destroy the strength of the kingdom of the Gentiles: and I will overthrow the chariot, and him that rideth therein: and the horses and their riders shall come down, every one by the sword of his brother.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And I will ouerthrowe the throne of kingdomes, and I wil destroy the strength of the kingdomes of the heathen, and I wil ouerthrowe the charets, and those that ride in them, and the horse and the riders shall come downe, euery one by the sword of his brother. In that day, saith the Lord of hostes, will I take thee, O Zerubbabel my seruant, the sonne of Shealtiel, sayth the Lord, and wil make thee as a signet: for I haue chosen thee, sayth the Lord of hostes.