Zechariah 8:3
Thus saith the LORD; I am returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy mountain.
Zechariah 8:3 · King James Version
Meaning
According to this verse from the book of Zechariah, the LORD declares that He has returned to Zion and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem. This statement symbolizes the restoration and favor of God towards His people. The mention of Jerusalem as a city of truth signifies a place where righteousness and honesty prevail. It emphasizes the idea that God's presence brings about integrity and authenticity within the city. Additionally, the reference to the mountain of the LORD of hosts as the holy mountain highlights the sacredness and significance of the location where God's presence resides. It conveys the idea that the city of Jerusalem is set apart and consecrated by the LORD as a place of worship and devotion. Overall, this verse conveys a message of divine restoration, truth, and holiness that will be manifested through God's presence in Jerusalem.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Zechariah is rich with theological significance. It portrays the promise of God to return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem, marking the city as a place of truth and holiness. The image of God residing in the midst of Jerusalem signifies His presence and protection over His people. The term "city of truth" emphasizes the importance of honesty, righteousness, and divine faithfulness in the community. Similarly, the mention of Jerusalem as the "holy mountain" of the Lord underscores the sanctity and elevated status of the city in the eyes of God. The phrase "mountain of the LORD of hosts" signifies a place of divine authority and power. This verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His chosen people and His desire to dwell among them in righteousness and truth.
Zechariah 8:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
Thus saith Jehovah: I am returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called The city of truth; and the mountain of Jehovah of hosts, The holy mountain.
World English Bible
Thus says Yahweh: “I have returned to Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem. Jerusalem shall be called ‘The City of Truth;’ and the mountain of Yahweh of Armies, ‘The Holy Mountain.’”
Douay-Rheims
Thus saith the Lord of hosts: I am returned to Sion, and I will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called The city of truth, and the mountain of the Lord of hosts, The sanctified mountain.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thus saith the Lord, I wil returne vnto Zion, and wil dwel in the mids of Ierusalem: and Ierusalem shalbe called a citie of trueth, and the Mountaine of the Lord of hostes, the holy Mountaine.