Zechariah 4:10
For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.
Zechariah 4:10 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the prophet Zechariah is reminding the people not to despise small beginnings or seemingly insignificant things. The reference to Zerubbabel, who was a governor leading the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem, reinforces the idea that God can bring about great accomplishments through humble means. The plummet in Zerubbabel's hand symbolizes the measuring tool used in construction, suggesting that God is overseeing and guiding the work being done. The mention of the "seven eyes of the Lord" emphasizes God's omnipresence and omniscience, as His eyes are constantly watching over the earth. Through this verse, Zechariah conveys the message that nothing is too small or insignificant for God's attention and blessing. It serves as a reminder to trust in God's plan, even when things may seem small or insignificant at the moment.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Zechariah, the phrase "the day of small things" has been a subject of theological interpretation. Some scholars believe that this refers to the humble beginnings of the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem by Zerubbabel. Despite the seemingly insignificant nature of this endeavor, the verse assures that those who do not despise these small beginnings will rejoice. The mention of Zerubbabel signifies the work of leadership and vision, as he is seen with a plummet in his hand, symbolizing the careful planning and execution required for the construction. The seven eyes of the Lord, mentioned in the verse, are believed to represent God's omniscience and watchful presence over the entire earth. The eyes that run to and fro signify God's active involvement in the world, overseeing every detail and aspect of human life. Overall, this verse conveys a message of encouragement and divine providence, urging believers to appreciate the significance of seemingly insignificant beginnings and trust in God's overarching plan.
Zechariah 4:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
For who hath despised the day of small things? for these seven shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel; [these are] the eyes of Jehovah, which run to and fro through the whole earth.
World English Bible
Indeed, who despises the day of small things? For these seven shall rejoice, and shall see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. These are the eyes of Yahweh, which run back and forth through the whole earth.”
Douay-Rheims
For who hath despised little days? and they shall rejoice, and shall see the tin plummet in the hand of Zorobabel. These are the seven eyes of the Lord, that run to and fro through the whole earth.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For who hath despised the day of the small thinges? but they shall reioyce, and shall see the stone of tinne in the hand of Zerubbabel: these seuen are the eyes of the Lord, which go thorow the whole world.