Zechariah 14:17
And it shall be, that whoso will not come up of all the families of the earth unto Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, even upon them shall be no rain.
Zechariah 14:17 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse, found in Zechariah 14:17, speaks of a significant consequence for those who do not come to Jerusalem to worship the Lord. Jerusalem is symbolically important in the Bible as the city of God, and here it represents the presence of the Almighty. By instructing all the families of the earth to come to Jerusalem to worship the King, the Lord of hosts, the verse emphasizes the idea of unity and reverence for God. The withholding of rain in this context is a powerful image of divine punishment, as rain was essential for agricultural prosperity in the ancient world. This verse suggests that those who refuse to worship the Lord will face the consequences of their disobedience. It serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring and obeying God, and the significance of worshipping Him in a spirit of humility and reverence.
Theological Overview
The verse you are referring to is found in the book of Zechariah in the Old Testament. This passage is a prophecy about a time when all the families of the earth will be invited to come to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts. One theological interpretation of this verse is that it speaks to the inclusivity of God's kingdom, where people from all nations and backgrounds are welcomed to worship Him. This verse also emphasizes the importance of honoring and obeying God's commands, as those who do not come to Jerusalem to worship the King will face consequences, such as a lack of rain. The term "the LORD of hosts" highlights God's sovereignty and power over all creation. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of worshiping and honoring God, as well as the consequences of disobedience.
Zechariah 14:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it shall be, that whoso of [all] the families of the earth goeth not up unto Jerusalem to worship the King, Jehovah of hosts, upon them there shall be no rain.
World English Bible
It will be, that whoever of all the families of the earth doesn’t go up to Jerusalem to worship the King, Yahweh of Armies, on them there will be no rain.
Douay-Rheims
And it shall come to pass, that he that shall not go up of the families of the land to Jerusalem, to adore the King, the Lord of hosts, there shall be no rain upon them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And who so will not come vp of all the families of the earth vnto Ierusalem to worship the King the Lord of hostes, euen vpon them shall come no raine.