Zechariah 14:5
And ye shall flee to the valley of the mountains; for the valley of the mountains shall reach unto Azal: yea, ye shall flee, like as ye fled from before the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah: and the LORD my God shall come, and all the saints with thee.
Zechariah 14:5 · King James Version
Meaning
Here, the verse describes a prophetic event where believers will seek refuge in the valley of the mountains, anticipating the arrival of the Lord. The valley of the mountains extending to Azal symbolizes a place of safety and protection. The mention of fleeing, similar to the time of the earthquake during Uzziah's reign in Judah, signifies a time of chaos and upheaval from which believers will seek deliverance. The arrival of the Lord, accompanied by all the saints, emphasizes the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom and the fulfillment of his promises. This verse inspires hope and confidence in the face of adversity, reminding believers of the Lord's provision and protection in times of trouble. As believers wait for the coming of the Lord, they are encouraged to trust in His faithfulness and remain steadfast in their faith.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Zechariah emphasizes the concept of divine intervention and deliverance. The imagery of fleeing to the valley of the mountains signifies seeking refuge and safety in times of trouble, much like the Israelites fled from the earthquake during King Uzziah's reign. The mention of Azal may refer to a specific location or symbolize a place of ultimate protection. The anticipation of the arrival of the Lord, accompanied by all the saints, conveys a message of hope and salvation for believers. This verse highlights the idea of God's presence in times of crisis and His ultimate power to protect and deliver His people. In the context of the entire book of Zechariah, this verse can be seen as a promise of restoration and victory for the people of God.
Zechariah 14:5 in other translations
American Standard Version
And ye shall flee by the valley of my mountains; for the valley of the mountains shall reach unto Azel; yea, ye shall flee, like as ye fled from before the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah; and Jehovah my God shall come, and all the holy ones with thee.
World English Bible
You shall flee by the valley of my mountains; for the valley of the mountains shall reach to Azel; yes, you shall flee, just like you fled from before the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah. Yahweh my God will come, and all the holy ones with you./f + Septuagint reads “him” instead of “you”./f*
Douay-Rheims
And you shall flee to the valley of those mountains, for the valley of the mountains shall be joined even to the next, and you shall flee as you fled from the face of the earthquake in the days of Ozias king of Juda: and the Lord my God shall come, and all the saints with him.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And yee shall flee vnto the valley of the mountaines: for the valley of the mountaines shall reache vnto Azal: yea, yee shall flee like as ye fled from the earthquake in the daies of Vzziah King of Iudah: and the Lord my God shall come, and all the Saints with thee.