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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Zechariah 1:16 Therefore this is what the LORD says: 'I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, and there My house will be rebuilt, declares the LORD of Hosts, and a measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem.'</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/zechariah/1-16.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/19/38_Zec_01_16.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Zechariah 1:16 - The Vision of the Horses" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Therefore this is what the LORD says: 'I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, and there My house will be rebuilt, declares the LORD of Hosts, and a measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem.'" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/zechariah/1-16.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/zechariah/1-16.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/zechariah/">Zechariah</a> > <a href="/zechariah/1.htm">Chapter 1</a> > Verse 16</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad16.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/zechariah/1-15.htm" title="Zechariah 1:15">◄</a> Zechariah 1:16 <a href="/zechariah/1-17.htm" title="Zechariah 1:17">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/zechariah/1.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/zechariah/1.htm">New International Version</a> &#8220Therefore this is what the LORD says: &#8216I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, and there my house will be rebuilt. And the measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem,&#8217 declares the LORD Almighty. <a href="/nlt/zechariah/1.htm">New Living Translation</a> “‘Therefore, this is what the LORD says: I have returned to show mercy to Jerusalem. My Temple will be rebuilt, says the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, and measurements will be taken for the reconstruction of Jerusalem.’ <a href="/esv/zechariah/1.htm">English Standard Version</a> Therefore, thus says the LORD, I have returned to Jerusalem with mercy; my house shall be built in it, declares the LORD of hosts, and the measuring line shall be stretched out over Jerusalem. <a href="/bsb/zechariah/1.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Therefore this is what the LORD says: ‘I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, and there My house will be rebuilt, declares the LORD of Hosts, and a measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem.’ <a href="/kjv/zechariah/1.htm">King James Bible</a> Therefore thus saith the LORD; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies: my house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem. <a href="/nkjv/zechariah/1.htm">New King James Version</a> ‘Therefore thus says the LORD: “I am returning to Jerusalem with mercy; My house shall be built in it,” says the LORD of hosts, “And a surveyor’s line shall be stretched out over Jerusalem.” ’ <a href="/nasb_/zechariah/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Therefore the LORD says this: “I will return to Jerusalem with compassion; My house will be built in it,” declares the LORD of armies, “and a measuring line will be stretched over Jerusalem.”’ <a href="/nasb/zechariah/1.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8216Therefore thus says the LORD, &#8220I will return to Jerusalem with compassion; My house will be built in it,&#8221 declares the LORD of hosts, &#8220and a measuring line will be stretched over Jerusalem."&#8217 <a href="/nasb77/zechariah/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a> ‘Therefore, thus says the LORD, “I will return to Jerusalem with compassion; My house will be built in it,” declares the LORD of hosts, “and a measuring line will be stretched over Jerusalem.”’ <a href="/lsb/zechariah/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Therefore thus says Yahweh, “I will return to Jerusalem with compassion; My house will be built in it,” declares Yahweh of hosts, “and a measuring line will be stretched over Jerusalem.”’ <a href="/amp/zechariah/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Therefore, thus says the LORD, “I have returned to Jerusalem with mercy and compassion. My house shall be built in it,” says the LORD of hosts, “and a measuring line shall be stretched out over Jerusalem.”’ <a href="/csb/zechariah/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Therefore, this is what the LORD says: In mercy, I have returned to Jerusalem; my house will be rebuilt within it—this is the declaration of the LORD of Armies—and a measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem. <a href="/hcsb/zechariah/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Therefore, this is what the LORD says: In mercy, I have returned to Jerusalem; My house will be rebuilt within it"—this is the declaration of the LORD of Hosts—"and a measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem.&#8221 <a href="/asv/zechariah/1.htm">American Standard Version</a> Therefore thus saith Jehovah: I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies; my house shall be built in it, saith Jehovah of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth over Jerusalem. <a href="/cev/zechariah/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> And so, I will have pity on Jerusalem. The city will be completely rebuilt, and my temple will stand again. <a href="/erv/zechariah/1.htm">English Revised Version</a> Therefore thus saith the LORD: I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies; my house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth over Jerusalem. <a href="/gwt/zechariah/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> This is what the LORD of Armies says: I have returned to Jerusalem with compassion. My house will be rebuilt in it, declares the LORD of Armies. A measuring line will be used to rebuild Jerusalem. <a href="/gnt/zechariah/1.htm">Good News Translation</a> So I have come back to Jerusalem to show mercy to the city. My Temple will be restored, and the city will be rebuilt." <a href="/isv/zechariah/1.htm">International Standard Version</a> Therefore this is what the LORD says: "I have returned to Jerusalem with compassionate intentions. My Temple will be rebuilt there," declares the LORD of the Heavenly Armies, "and the measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem."'" <a href="/msb/zechariah/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Therefore this is what the LORD says: ?I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, and there My house will be rebuilt, declares the LORD of Hosts, and a measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem.? <a href="/net/zechariah/1.htm">NET Bible</a> "'Therefore,' says the LORD, 'I have become compassionate toward Jerusalem and will rebuild my temple in it,' says the LORD who rules over all. 'Once more a surveyor's measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem.' <a href="/nheb/zechariah/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Therefore thus says the LORD: "I have returned to Jerusalem with mercy. My house will be built in it," says the LORD of hosts, "and a line shall be stretched forth over Jerusalem."' <a href="/wbt/zechariah/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Therefore thus saith the LORD; I have returned to Jerusalem with mercies: my house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem. <a href="/web/zechariah/1.htm">World English Bible</a> Therefore Yahweh says: “I have returned to Jerusalem with mercy. My house shall be built in it,” says Yahweh of Armies, “and a line shall be stretched out over Jerusalem.”’ <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/zechariah/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> Therefore, thus said YHWH: I have turned to Jerusalem with mercies, "" My house is built in it, "" A declaration of YHWH of Hosts, "" And a line is stretched over Jerusalem. <a href="/ylt/zechariah/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> Therefore, thus said Jehovah: I have turned to Jerusalem with mercies, My house is built in it, An affirmation of Jehovah of Hosts, And a line is stretched over Jerusalem. <a href="/slt/zechariah/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For this, thus said Jehovah: I turned back to Jerusalem with mercies: my house shall be built in it, says Jehovah of armies, and a cord shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/zechariah/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Therefore thus saith the Lord: I will return to Jerusalem in mercies: my house shall be built in it, saith the Lord of hosts: and the building line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem. <a href="/cpdv/zechariah/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Because of this, thus says the Lord: I will be turned back, towards Jerusalem, with mercies; and my house will be built upon this, says the Lord of hosts. And the building line will be extended over Jerusalem. <a href="/nabre/zechariah/1.htm">New American Bible</a> Therefore, thus says the LORD: I return to Jerusalem in mercy; my house will be rebuilt there —oracle of the LORD of hosts— and a measuring line will be stretched over Jerusalem. <a href="/nrsvce/zechariah/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Therefore, thus says the LORD, I have returned to Jerusalem with compassion; my house shall be built in it, says the LORD of hosts, and the measuring line shall be stretched out over Jerusalem.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/zechariah/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Therefore thus says the LORD: I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies; my house shall be built in it, says the LORD of hosts, and a measuring line shall be stretched forth over Jerusalem. <a href="/hpbt/zechariah/1.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> Because of these facts, thus says LORD JEHOVAH of Hosts: ‘I have returned to Jerusalem in mercies and my house I have given within her, says LORD JEHOVAH of Hosts, and a cord shall be stretched over Jerusalem”<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/zechariah/1.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> Therefore thus saith the LORD: I return to Jerusalem with compassions: My house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth over Jerusalem. <a href="/sep/zechariah/1.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> Therefore thus saith the Lord: I will return to Jerusalem with compassion; and my house shall be rebuilt in her, saith the Lord Almighty, and a measuring line shall yet be stretched out over Jerusalem. <a href="/parallel/zechariah/1-16.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CFPk_KgOyMk?start=167" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/zechariah/1.htm">The Vision of the Horses</a> …15but I am fiercely angry with the nations that are at ease. For I was a little angry, but they have added to the calamity.’ 16<a href="/hebrew/3651.htm" title="3651: lā·ḵên (Adv) -- So, thus. From kuwn; properly, set upright; hence just; but usually rightly or so.">Therefore</a> <a href="/hebrew/3541.htm" title="3541: kōh- (Adv) -- Thus, here. From the prefix k and huw'; properly, like this, i.e. By implication, thus; also here; or now.">this is what</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">the LORD</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: ’ā·mar (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">says:</a> <a href="/hebrew/7725.htm" title="7725: šaḇ·tî (V-Qal-Perf-1cs) -- A primitive root; to turn back transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively; generally to retreat; often adverbial, again.">‘I will return</a> <a href="/hebrew/3389.htm" title="3389: lî·rū·šā·lim (Prep-l:: N-proper-fs) -- Probably foundation of peace, capital city of all Isr. ">to Jerusalem</a> <a href="/hebrew/7356.htm" title="7356: bə·ra·ḥă·mîm (Prep-b:: N-mp) -- Compassion. From racham; compassion; by extension, the womb; by implication, a maiden.">with mercy,</a> <a href="/hebrew/bāh (Prep:: 3fs) -- ">and there</a> <a href="/hebrew/1004.htm" title="1004: bê·ṯî (N-msc:: 1cs) -- A house. Probably from banah abbreviated; a house.">My house</a> <a href="/hebrew/1129.htm" title="1129: yib·bā·neh (V-Nifal-Imperf-3ms) -- To build. A primitive root; to build.">will be rebuilt,</a> <a href="/hebrew/5002.htm" title="5002: nə·’um (N-msc) -- Utterance. From na'am; an oracle.">declares</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">the LORD</a> <a href="/hebrew/6635.htm" title="6635: ṣə·ḇā·’ō·wṯ (N-cp) -- Or tsbadah; from tsaba'; a mass of persons, especially reg. Organized for war; by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively.">of Hosts,</a> <a href="/hebrew/6961.htm" title="6961: wə·qå̄·wå̄h (Conj-w:: N-ms) -- A, cord. From qavah; a cord.">and a measuring line</a> <a href="/hebrew/5186.htm" title="5186: yin·nā·ṭeh (V-Nifal-Imperf-3ms) -- A primitive root; to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away; used in a great variety of application.">will be stretched out</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘al- (Prep) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">over</a> <a href="/hebrew/3389.htm" title="3389: yə·rū·šā·lim (N-proper-fs) -- Probably foundation of peace, capital city of all Isr. ">Jerusalem.’</a> 17Proclaim further that this is what the LORD of Hosts says: ‘My cities will again overflow with prosperity; the LORD will again comfort Zion and choose Jerusalem.’ ”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/isaiah/44-26.htm">Isaiah 44:26</a> who confirms the message of His servant and fulfills the counsel of His messengers, who says of Jerusalem, ‘She will be inhabited,’ and of the cities of Judah, ‘They will be rebuilt, and I will restore their ruins,’ <a href="/jeremiah/31-38.htm">Jeremiah 31:38-40</a> “The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when this city will be rebuilt for Me, from the tower of Hananel to the Corner Gate. / The measuring line will once again stretch out straight to the hill of Gareb and then turn toward Goah. / The whole valley of the dead bodies and ashes, and all the fields as far as the Kidron Valley, to the corner of the Horse Gate to the east, will be holy to the LORD. It will never again be uprooted or demolished.” <a href="/amos/9-14.htm">Amos 9:14-15</a> I will restore My people Israel from captivity; they will rebuild and inhabit the ruined cities. They will plant vineyards and drink their wine; they will make gardens and eat their fruit. / I will firmly plant them in their own land, never again to be uprooted from the land that I have given them,” says the LORD your God. <a href="/isaiah/54-11.htm">Isaiah 54:11-12</a> “O afflicted city, lashed by storms, without solace, surely I will set your stones in antimony and lay your foundations with sapphires. / I will make your pinnacles of rubies, your gates of sparkling jewels, and all your walls of precious stones. <a href="/jeremiah/30-18.htm">Jeremiah 30:18</a> This is what the LORD says: “I will restore the fortunes of Jacob’s tents and have compassion on his dwellings. And the city will be rebuilt on her own ruins, and the palace will stand in its rightful place. <a href="/isaiah/60-10.htm">Isaiah 60:10</a> Foreigners will rebuild your walls, and their kings will serve you. Although I struck you in anger, yet in favor I will show you mercy. <a href="/ezekiel/36-33.htm">Ezekiel 36:33-36</a> This is what the Lord GOD says: On the day I cleanse you from all your iniquities, I will cause the cities to be resettled and the ruins to be rebuilt. / The desolate land will be cultivated instead of lying desolate in the sight of all who pass through. / Then they will say, ‘This land that was desolate has become like the garden of Eden. The cities that were once ruined, desolate, and destroyed are now fortified and inhabited.’ ... <a href="/isaiah/40-1.htm">Isaiah 40:1-2</a> “Comfort, comfort My people,” says your God. / “Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her forced labor has been completed; her iniquity has been pardoned. For she has received from the hand of the LORD double for all her sins.” <a href="/jeremiah/33-7.htm">Jeremiah 33:7-9</a> I will restore Judah and Israel from captivity and will rebuild them as in former times. / And I will cleanse them from all the iniquity they have committed against Me, and will forgive all their sins of rebellion against Me. / So this city will bring Me renown, joy, praise, and glory before all the nations of the earth, who will hear of all the good I do for it. They will tremble in awe because of all the goodness and prosperity that I will provide for it. <a href="/isaiah/51-3.htm">Isaiah 51:3</a> For the LORD will comfort Zion and will look with compassion on all her ruins; He will make her wilderness like Eden and her desert like the garden of the LORD. Joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and melodious song. <a href="/haggai/2-7.htm">Haggai 2:7-9</a> I will shake all the nations, and they will come with all their treasures, and I will fill this house with glory, says the LORD of Hosts. / The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine, declares the LORD of Hosts. / The latter glory of this house will be greater than the former, says the LORD of Hosts. And in this place I will provide peace, declares the LORD of Hosts.” <a href="/isaiah/62-1.htm">Isaiah 62:1-2</a> For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not keep still, until her righteousness shines like a bright light, her salvation like a blazing torch. / Nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory. You will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow. <a href="/jeremiah/32-42.htm">Jeremiah 32:42-44</a> For this is what the LORD says: Just as I have brought all this great disaster on this people, so I will bring on them all the good I have promised them. / And fields will be bought in this land about which you are saying, ‘It is a desolation, without man or beast; it has been delivered into the hands of the Chaldeans.’ / Fields will be purchased with silver, and deeds will be signed, sealed, and witnessed in the land of Benjamin, in the areas surrounding Jerusalem, and in the cities of Judah—the cities of the hill country, the foothills, and the Negev—because I will restore them from captivity, declares the LORD.” <a href="/isaiah/61-4.htm">Isaiah 61:4</a> They will rebuild the ancient ruins; they will restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities, the desolations of many generations. <a href="/ezekiel/28-25.htm">Ezekiel 28:25-26</a> This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘When I gather the house of Israel from the peoples among whom they have been scattered, I will show Myself holy among them in the sight of the nations. Then they will dwell in their own land, which I have given to My servant Jacob. / And there they will dwell securely, build houses, and plant vineyards. They will dwell securely when I execute judgments against all those around them who treat them with contempt. Then they will know that I am the LORD their God.’”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Therefore thus said the LORD; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies: my house shall be built in it, said the LORD of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth on Jerusalem.I am.<a href="/zechariah/2-10.htm">Zechariah 2:10,11</a> Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion: for, lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith the LORD… <a href="/zechariah/8-3.htm">Zechariah 8:3</a> 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.<a href="/isaiah/12-1.htm">Isaiah 12:1</a> And in that day thou shalt say, O LORD, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me.my house.<a href="/zechariah/4-9.htm">Zechariah 4:9</a> The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it; and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto you.<a href="/ezra/6-14.htm">Ezra 6:14,15</a> And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished it, according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia… <a href="/isaiah/44-26.htm">Isaiah 44:26-28</a> That confirmeth the word of his servant, and performeth the counsel of his messengers; that saith to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be inhabited; and to the cities of Judah, Ye shall be built, and I will raise up the decayed places thereof: … and.<a href="/zechariah/2-1.htm">Zechariah 2:1,2</a> I lifted up mine eyes again, and looked, and behold a man with a measuring line in his hand… <a href="/job/38-5.htm">Job 38:5</a> Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it?<a href="/isaiah/34-11.htm">Isaiah 34:11</a> But the cormorant and the bittern shall possess it; the owl also and the raven shall dwell in it: and he shall stretch out upon it the line of confusion, and the stones of emptiness.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/zechariah/1-3.htm">Affirmation</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-14.htm">Armies</a> <a href="/haggai/1-2.htm">Built</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-12.htm">Compassion</a> <a href="/hosea/11-8.htm">Compassions</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-4.htm">Declares</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-11.htm">Forth</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-14.htm">Hosts</a> <a href="/haggai/2-18.htm">House</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-14.htm">Jerusalem</a> <a href="/amos/7-17.htm">Line</a> <a href="/micah/2-5.htm">Measuring</a> <a href="/hosea/3-5.htm">Mercies</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-12.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/haggai/1-2.htm">Rebuilt</a> <a href="/zephaniah/2-13.htm">Stretched</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-6.htm">Turned</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/zechariah/2-5.htm">Affirmation</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-17.htm">Armies</a> <a href="/zechariah/8-9.htm">Built</a> <a href="/zechariah/7-9.htm">Compassion</a> <a href="/zechariah/7-9.htm">Compassions</a> <a href="/zechariah/2-5.htm">Declares</a> <a href="/zechariah/2-3.htm">Forth</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-17.htm">Hosts</a> <a href="/zechariah/3-7.htm">House</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-17.htm">Jerusalem</a> <a href="/zechariah/4-10.htm">Line</a> <a href="/zechariah/2-1.htm">Measuring</a> <a href="/zechariah/7-9.htm">Mercies</a> <a href="/zechariah/7-9.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/numbers/21-27.htm">Rebuilt</a> <a href="/zechariah/12-1.htm">Stretched</a> <a href="/zechariah/5-1.htm">Turned</a><div class="vheading2">Zechariah 1</div>1. <a href="/zechariah/1-1.htm">Zechariah exhorts to repentance.</a> 7. <a href="/zechariah/1-7.htm">The vision of the horses.</a> 12. <a href="/zechariah/1-12.htm">At the prayer of the angel comfortable promises are made to Jerusalem.</a> 18. <a href="/zechariah/1-18.htm">The vision of the four horns and the four carpenters.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/zechariah/1.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/zechariah/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/zechariah/1.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Therefore this is what the LORD says: This phrase introduces a divine proclamation, emphasizing the authority and certainty of the message. In the context of Zechariah, a post-exilic prophet, it underscores the transition from judgment to restoration. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) highlights God's covenantal relationship with Israel.‘I will return to Jerusalem with mercy, This promise of return signifies God's renewed favor towards Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The term "mercy" indicates compassion and forgiveness, reflecting God's covenant faithfulness despite Israel's previous disobedience. This return is not just physical but spiritual, symbolizing a restoration of God's presence among His people.and there My house will be rebuilt, Referring to the rebuilding of the Temple, this phrase highlights the centrality of worship and God's dwelling place among His people. Historically, the Temple's reconstruction began under Zerubbabel and Joshua the high priest, as recorded in Ezra. Theologically, it points to the importance of the Temple as a place of sacrifice and communion with God, foreshadowing Christ as the ultimate Temple (<a href="/john/2-19.htm">John 2:19-21</a>).declares the LORD of Hosts, This title emphasizes God's sovereignty and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It reassures the people of God's ability to fulfill His promises and protect His people. The title is often used in prophetic literature to underscore God's might and authority.and a measuring line will be stretched out over Jerusalem.’ The imagery of a measuring line suggests planning and restoration, indicating that Jerusalem will be rebuilt and reestablished according to God's design. This concept is echoed in other prophetic visions, such as Ezekiel's vision of the new Temple (Ezekiel 40) and Revelation's depiction of the New Jerusalem (<a href="/revelation/21-15.htm">Revelation 21:15-17</a>). It signifies order, purpose, and the fulfillment of God's promises.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/t/the_lord.htm">The LORD (Yahweh)</a> The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who speaks through the prophet Zechariah, promising restoration and mercy. 2. <a href="/topical/j/jerusalem.htm">Jerusalem</a> The central city of Israel, significant for its spiritual and historical importance, and the location of the Temple. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_lord_of_hosts.htm">The LORD of Hosts</a> A title emphasizing God's sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies, indicating His power and authority. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_house.htm">The House (Temple)</a> Refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, symbolizing God's presence among His people. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_measuring_line.htm">The Measuring Line</a> A tool used for construction, symbolizing the planning and rebuilding of Jerusalem, indicating restoration and order.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/g/god's_faithfulness_to_his_promises.htm">God's Faithfulness to His Promises</a> God’s declaration to return to Jerusalem with mercy underscores His unwavering commitment to His covenant people. Believers can trust in God's promises, knowing He is faithful to fulfill them. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_god's_presence.htm">The Importance of God's Presence</a> The rebuilding of the Temple signifies God's desire to dwell among His people. Christians are reminded of the importance of seeking God's presence in their lives and communities. <a href="/topical/r/restoration_and_hope.htm">Restoration and Hope</a> The imagery of the measuring line and rebuilding speaks to God's power to restore and renew. Believers can find hope in God's ability to bring restoration to broken areas of their lives. <a href="/topical/d/divine_mercy.htm">Divine Mercy</a> God's return to Jerusalem with mercy highlights His compassion and grace. Christians are called to reflect God's mercy in their interactions with others. <a href="/topical/a/active_participation_in_god's_work.htm">Active Participation in God's Work</a> The call to rebuild the Temple invites believers to actively participate in God's redemptive work. Christians are encouraged to engage in building up their faith communities and serving others.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_zechariah_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Zechariah 1</a> <a href="/q/what_does_the_phoenix_mean_in_the_bible.htm">Who was Sheshbazzar in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/how_does_zech._12_7_align_with_judah's_history.htm">How does Zechariah 12:7, which promises the Lord will save the tents of Judah first, align with historical records showing Judah's multiple defeats and exiles?</a> <a href="/q/does_zech._1_14-15_align_with_other_biblical_judgments.htm">How does the promised divine judgment in Zechariah 1:14-15 align with or contradict other biblical accounts of God's dealings with foreign nations?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_about_israel.htm">What does the Bible say about Israel in End Times?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/zechariah/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 16. - Therefore. Because God loved his people and was incensed with the heathen. I am returned; I return. According to the promise in ver. 3 (see note on Zechariah 8:3). A line shall be stretched forth. A measuring line shall now be used to mark out the city for rebuilding (<a href="/job/38-5.htm">Job 38:5</a>). The first proof of God's renewed mercy would be seen in the restoration of the temple, the symbol of the theocracy, and in the revival of the city, the type of national life. The "line" had been used for purposes of destruction (<a href="/2_kings/21-13.htm">2 Kings 21:13</a>; <a href="/isaiah/34-11.htm">Isaiah 34:11</a>; <a href="/lamentations/2-8.htm">Lamentations 2:8</a>). <a href="/commentaries/zechariah/1-16.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>Therefore, לָכֵ֞ן (lā·ḵên) Adverb <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3651.htm">Strong's 3651: </a> So -- thus this is what כֹּֽה־ (kōh-) Adverb <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3541.htm">Strong's 3541: </a> Like this, thus, here, now the LORD יְהוָ֗ה (Yah·weh) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel says: אָמַ֣ר (’ā·mar) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say ‘I will return שַׁ֤בְתִּי (šaḇ·tî) Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7725.htm">Strong's 7725: </a> To turn back, in, to retreat, again to Jerusalem לִירוּשָׁלִַ֙ם֙ (lî·rū·šā·lim) Preposition-l | Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3389.htm">Strong's 3389: </a> Jerusalem -- probably 'foundation of peace', capital city of all Israel with mercy, בְּֽרַחֲמִ֔ים (bə·ra·ḥă·mîm) Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7356.htm">Strong's 7356: </a> Compassion, the womb, a maiden and there בָּ֔הּ (bāh) Preposition | third person feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/.htm">Strong's Hebrew</a> My house בֵּיתִי֙ (bê·ṯî) Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1004.htm">Strong's 1004: </a> A house will be rebuilt, יִבָּ֣נֶה (yib·bā·neh) Verb - Nifal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1129.htm">Strong's 1129: </a> To build declares נְאֻ֖ם (nə·’um) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5002.htm">Strong's 5002: </a> An oracle the LORD יְהוָ֣ה (Yah·weh) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel of Hosts, צְבָא֑וֹת (ṣə·ḇā·’ō·wṯ) Noun - common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6635.htm">Strong's 6635: </a> A mass of persons, reg, organized for, war, a campaign and a measuring line וְקָ֥ו (wə·qāw) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6961.htm">Strong's 6961: </a> A, cord will be stretched out יִנָּטֶ֖ה (yin·nā·ṭeh) Verb - Nifal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5186.htm">Strong's 5186: </a> To stretch out, spread out, extend, incline, bend over עַל־ (‘al-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against Jerusalem.’ יְרוּשָׁלִָֽם׃ (yə·rū·šā·lim) Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3389.htm">Strong's 3389: </a> Jerusalem -- probably 'foundation of peace', capital city of all Israel <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/zechariah/1-16.htm">Zechariah 1:16 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/zechariah/1-16.htm">Zechariah 1:16 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/zechariah/1-16.htm">Zechariah 1:16 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/zechariah/1-16.htm">Zechariah 1:16 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/zechariah/1-16.htm">Zechariah 1:16 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/zechariah/1-16.htm">Zechariah 1:16 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/zechariah/1-16.htm">Zechariah 1:16 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/zechariah/1-16.htm">Zechariah 1:16 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/zechariah/1-16.htm">Zechariah 1:16 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/zechariah/1-16.htm">Zechariah 1:16 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/zechariah/1-16.htm">OT Prophets: Zechariah 1:16 Therefore thus says Yahweh: I have returned (Zech. Zec Zc) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/zechariah/1-15.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Zechariah 1:15"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Zechariah 1:15" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/zechariah/1-17.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Zechariah 1:17"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Zechariah 1:17" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>