Zechariah 14:18
And if the family of Egypt go not up, and come not, that have no rain; there shall be the plague, wherewith the LORD will smite the heathen that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles.
Zechariah 14:18 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Zechariah in the Old Testament serves as a warning from the Lord to the family of Egypt. It states that if the people of Egypt do not attend the feast of tabernacles, they will face consequences in the form of a plague. The feast of tabernacles is a significant Jewish holiday that commemorates the Israelites' time in the wilderness and the provisions that God made for them during that period. By not participating in this feast, the family of Egypt is rejecting the Lord and facing punishment as a result. This verse emphasizes the importance of honoring and worshiping God through obedience to His commands and traditions. It serves as a reminder that those who neglect their faith and disregard the Lord's instructions will face consequences for their actions.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from the Book of Zechariah highlights the importance of obedience and reverence towards God. The passage emphasizes the significance of participating in the feast of tabernacles, which was a holy tradition in ancient Israel. The verse speaks about the consequences for those who choose not to honor this sacred celebration, indicating that the Lord will bring a plague upon them. This highlights the seriousness of neglecting spiritual duties and showcases God's power and authority over all nations. The word "heathen" in this context refers to the nations or people who do not follow the ways of God and choose to disregard His commands. The lack of rain mentioned in the verse symbolizes punishment and divine intervention. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness, worship, and obedience in the eyes of the Lord.
Zechariah 14:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
And if the family of Egypt go not up, and come not, neither [shall it be] upon them; there shall be the plague wherewith Jehovah will smite the nations that go not up to keep the feast of tabernacles.
World English Bible
If the family of Egypt doesn’t go up, and doesn’t come, neither will it rain on them. This will be the plague with which Yahweh will strike the nations that don’t go up to keep the feast of tents.
Douay-Rheims
And if the family of Egypt go not up nor come: neither shall it be upon them, but there shall be destruction wherewith the Lord will strike all nations that will not go up to keep the feast of tabernacles.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And if the familie of Egypt goe not vp, and come not, it shall not raine vpon them. This shall be the plague wherewith the Lord will smite all the heathen, that come not vp to keepe the feast of Tabernacles.