Zechariah 1:16
Therefore thus saith the LORD; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies: my house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem.
Zechariah 1:16 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Zechariah in the Old Testament is a message from the LORD to the people of Jerusalem. It speaks of the return of the LORD to Jerusalem with mercy. This signifies God's presence and favor being restored to the people after a period of exile or judgment. The promise that God's house will be built in Jerusalem conveys the idea of spiritual restoration and the establishment of a place for worship and connection with God. The line stretched forth upon Jerusalem symbolizes God's protection and provision over the city, promising boundaries of safety and blessing for the inhabitants. Overall, this verse is a declaration of God's faithfulness, compassion, and restoration to his people, emphasizing his presence and sovereignty over Jerusalem.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the Lord speaks through the prophet Zechariah, declaring His return to Jerusalem with mercies. The theological interpretation of this verse points to God's faithfulness to His people, despite their past disobedience. The mention of building His house in Jerusalem symbolizes the restoration and renewal of God's presence among His people. The stretching forth of a line upon Jerusalem signifies God's protection and ownership over the city, establishing boundaries within which His people will thrive. The word 'mercy' conveys God's compassion, forgiveness, and loving-kindness towards His chosen people, showing that even in discipline, His ultimate desire is for their well-being and restoration. This verse serves as a reminder of God's promises of redemption and restoration to those who seek Him and align themselves with His will.
Zechariah 1:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
Therefore thus saith Jehovah: I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies; my house shall be built in it, saith Jehovah of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth over Jerusalem.
World English Bible
Therefore thus says Yahweh: “I have returned to Jerusalem with mercy. My house shall be built in it,” says Yahweh of Armies, “and a line shall be stretched out over Jerusalem.”’
Douay-Rheims
Therefore thus saith the Lord: I will return to Jerusalem in mercies: my house shall be built in it, saith the Lord of hosts: and the building line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore thus saith the Lord, I wil returne vnto Ierusalem with tender mercie: mine house shall be builded in it, saith the Lord of hostes, and a line shall be stretched vpon Ierusalem.