Key themes in Zechariah 1-8

Date
2019
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Old Testament Society of South Africa
Abstract
The discussion of key themes or the message of Zechariah 1-8 is neglected in commentaries that were published during the past five years. This article focuses on this neglected part of Zechariah research and investigates the following key themes: YHWH's di vine presence and the rebuilding of the temple in Zion; The lordship and sovereignty of YHWH; Sin and punishment/judgment; Turn to YHWH (repentance) and obedience; YHWH's return, grace, love and forgiveness; Realized eschatology and future hope; Israel and the nations; and Leadership. One cannot really say that there are any unique themes in Zechariah 18 or that the author/s had one central theme in mind. There are many similarities with other books in the OT, especially the post-exilic prophetic books. However, we must acknowledge that Zechariah 1-8 places more emphasis on certain themes and discusses them in a unique way.
Description
CITATION: O’Kennedy, D. F. 2019. Key themes in Zechariah 1-8. Old Testament Essays, 32(1):215-228, doi:10.17159/2312-3621/2019/v32n1a12.
The original publication is available at http://www.scielo.org.za
Keywords
Bible. Zechariah, I-VIII -- Criticism, interpretation, etc.
Citation
O’Kennedy, D. F. 2019. Key themes in Zechariah 1-8. Old Testament Essays, 32(1):215-228, doi:10.17159/2312-3621/2019/v32n1a12