Zechariah 12:4
In that day, saith the LORD, I will smite every horse with astonishment, and his rider with madness: and I will open mine eyes upon the house of Judah, and will smite every horse of the people with blindness.
Zechariah 12:4 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Zechariah describes a future prophecy where the Lord declares that He will bring judgment upon the house of Judah. The use of imagery with horses and their riders being smitten with astonishment, madness, and blindness symbolizes the chaos and confusion that will befall the people. The smiting of the horses represents a disruption in the usual strength and power that these animals symbolize. The riders being struck with madness hints at the mental anguish and turmoil that will overtake them. The mention of opening the Lord's eyes upon the house of Judah signifies His watchful presence and attention to their actions. This verse serves as a warning of the consequences that will come to those who do not align with the will of the Lord.
Theological Overview
This verse, found in the book of Zechariah, contains powerful imagery and language that evokes a sense of divine judgment and punishment. The theological interpretation of this verse suggests that it is a warning to the people of Judah about the consequences of their disobedience and lack of faith. The mention of horses being smitten with astonishment, riders with madness, and horses of the people with blindness can be seen as symbolic of the chaos and confusion that will befall those who stray from God's ways. This verse serves as a reminder that God's eyes are always watching over His people, ready to mete out judgment when necessary. The word studies in this verse reveal a sense of God's sovereignty and power, as He is portrayed as actively intervening in the affairs of the world to punish those who have gone astray. Overall, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commandments.
Zechariah 12:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
In that day, saith Jehovah, I will smite every horse with terror, and his rider with madness; and I will open mine eyes upon the house of Judah, and will smite every horse of the peoples with blindness.
World English Bible
In that day,” says Yahweh, “I will strike every horse with terror, and his rider with madness; and I will open my eyes on the house of Judah, and will strike every horse of the peoples with blindness.
Douay-Rheims
In that day, saith the Lord, I will strike every horse with astonishment, and his rider with madness: and I will open my eyes upon the house of Juda, and will strike every horse of the nations with blindness.
Geneva Bible (1599)
In that day, sayeth the Lord, I will smite euery horse with astonishment, and his rider with madnesse, and I will open mine eyes vpon the house of Iudah, and will smite euery horse of the people with blindnesse.