Zechariah 10:11
And he shall pass through the sea with affliction, and shall smite the waves in the sea, and all the deeps of the river shall dry up: and the pride of Assyria shall be brought down, and the sceptre of Egypt shall depart away.
Zechariah 10:11 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "And he shall pass through the sea with affliction..." refers to a powerful prophecy foretold in the Book of Isaiah. It speaks of a time when a mighty leader will lead his people through troubling times, symbolized by passing through the sea with affliction. The imagery of smiting the waves and drying up the river deeps signifies the leader's strength and ability to overcome any obstacles in his path. The mention of Assyria and Egypt represents the pride and power of these ancient civilizations, which will be brought down and made to depart away. This verse serves as a reminder of the ultimate power and authority of God, who can humble even the mightiest nations. It conveys a message of hope and faith in the face of adversity, showing that with God's guidance, any challenge can be conquered.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse is that it speaks to God's ultimate power and control over all things, including natural disasters and human kingdoms. The imagery of God passing through the sea with affliction and smiting the waves highlights His ability to command even the most chaotic and powerful forces of nature. The drying up of the river symbolizes His ability to bring about miraculous changes and judgments. The pride of Assyria and the sceptre of Egypt represent powerful earthly kingdoms that will ultimately be humbled and brought down by God. This verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the inevitable consequences for those who resist His will. Through these events, God demonstrates His authority and supremacy over all creation, reinforcing the importance of obedience and reverence toward Him.
Zechariah 10:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he will pass through the sea of affliction, and will smite the waves in the sea, and all the depths of the Nile shall dry up; and the pride of Assyria shall be brought down, and the sceptre of Egypt shall depart.
World English Bible
He will pass through the sea of affliction, and will strike the waves in the sea, and all the depths of the Nile will dry up; and the pride of Assyria will be brought down, and the scepter of Egypt will depart.
Douay-Rheims
And he shall pass over the strait of the sea, and shall strike the waves in the sea, and all the depths of the river shall be confounded, and the pride of Assyria shall be humbled, and the sceptre of Egypt shall depart.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And he shall goe into the sea with affliction, and shall smite the waues in the sea, and all the depthes of the riuer shall drye vp: and the pride of Asshur shall be cast downe, and the scepter of Egypt shall depart away.