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Zechariah 2:4

And said unto him, Run, speak to this young man, saying, Jerusalem shall be inhabited as towns without walls for the multitude of men and cattle therein:

Zechariah 2:4 · King James Version

Meaning

Here, the verse is describing a vision where a young man is instructed to deliver a message about the city of Jerusalem. In this message, it is foretold that Jerusalem will one day be so prosperous and secure that it will be like towns without walls. This imagery of towns without walls symbolizes a city that is so safe and prosperous that it does not need to rely on physical defenses for protection. The mention of the multitude of men and cattle further emphasizes the abundance and prosperity that will characterize the future Jerusalem. This verse can be seen as a promise of security and prosperity for the city and its inhabitants, indicating a time of great blessings and abundance to come.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Zechariah highlights the promise of protection and prosperity for the city of Jerusalem. The mention of Jerusalem being inhabited as towns without walls signifies a state of safety and peace, as walls were traditionally built for protection against enemies. In this context, the absence of walls indicates that Jerusalem will be secure without the need for physical barriers. This can be seen as a symbolic representation of divine protection and blessing upon the city. Additionally, the reference to the multitude of men and cattle emphasizes the idea of abundant life within Jerusalem, suggesting a flourishing community and livestock. This verse can be viewed as a reassurance of God's presence and provision for His people, as well as a prophecy of the city's future prosperity and growth. Word studies of phrases like "towns without walls" and "multitude of men and cattle" can further deepen our understanding of the imagery and significance of this verse in its historical and cultural context.

Zechariah 2:4 in other translations

American Standard Version

and said unto him, Run, speak to this young man, saying, Jerusalem shall be inhabited as villages without walls, by reason of the multitude of men and cattle therein.

World English Bible

and said to him, “Run, speak to this young man, saying, ‘Jerusalem will be inhabited as villages without walls, because of the multitude of men and livestock in it.

Douay-Rheims

And he said to him: Run, speak to this young man, saying: Jerusalem shall be inhabited without walls, by reason of the multitude of men, and of the beasts in the midst thereof.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And saide vnto him, Runne, speake to this yong man, and say, Ierusalem shalbe inhabited without walles, for the multitude of men and cattell therein.