Zechariah 8 17

Zechariah 8:17 kjv

And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbour; and love no false oath: for all these are things that I hate, saith the LORD.

Zechariah 8:17 nkjv

Let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; And do not love a false oath. For all these are things that I hate,' Says the LORD."

Zechariah 8:17 niv

do not plot evil against each other, and do not love to swear falsely. I hate all this," declares the LORD.

Zechariah 8:17 esv

do not devise evil in your hearts against one another, and love no false oath, for all these things I hate, declares the LORD."

Zechariah 8:17 nlt

Don't scheme against each other. Stop your love of telling lies that you swear are the truth. I hate all these things, says the LORD."

Zechariah 8 verses

Zechariah 8 17 Meaning

This verse from Zechariah declares God's desire for His people to speak truth one to another and to practice sincere peace and justice in their judgment, indicating a fundamental shift in their ethical and relational conduct.

Zechariah 8 17 Context

Zechariah chapter 8 paints a hopeful picture of Jerusalem's future restoration after the Babylonian exile. It emphasizes God's returning favor and presence among His people. The prophet conveys a series of divine promises and commands. Verses 16-17 specifically focus on the conduct expected of the returned exiles as they rebuild their society and spiritual life. This instruction is a direct outgrowth of the restoration that God is bringing about; it's not just about external rebuilding, but internal transformation and relational uprightness. This message follows God's affirmation of His love for Jerusalem and His future dwelling place within her.

Zechariah 8 17 Word Analysis

• And (וְ, ve): A conjunctive particle, connecting this command to the preceding ones and indicating a progression of God's requirements for His people.

• let none (אִישׁ, ish): "Man" or "each person." Emphasizes the universality of the command; it applies to every individual.

• think (יִקּוֹן, yiqon): "To devise," "to meditate," "to think in his heart." Suggests internal plotting or forming of thoughts.

• evil (רָעָה, ra'ah): "Evil," "bad," "wickedness," "calamity." Refers to harmful intentions or wicked schemes.

• against (אֶל, el): A preposition indicating direction or intention towards someone.

• his neighbor (רֵעֵהוּ, re'ehu): "His friend," "his fellow," "his neighbor." Highlights the interpersonal dimension of ethical conduct within the community.

• and love (וְאֹהַב, ve'ohav): "And he shall love." Indicates a volitional affection, a preference for.

• truth (אֱמֶת, emet): "Truth," "faithfulness," "reliability," "steadfastness." Encompasses sincerity, honesty, and trustworthiness in all dealings.

• and peace (וְשָׁלוֹם, veshalom): "And peace," "wholeness," "welfare," "prosperity," "tranquility." Implies harmonious relationships and well-being.

• in (בְּ, be): A preposition indicating location or sphere.

• your gates (שְׁעָרַיִךְ, she'arayikh): Refers to the places of public assembly and justice, where legal and community decisions were made. The "gates" were the centers of civic life and judgment.

• Group Analysis: "love truth and peace": This is a core ethical requirement for the restored community. It signifies a transformation from the self-serving and unjust practices that characterized their history, particularly preceding the exile. "Truth" (אֱמֶת, emet) here means not just factual accuracy but also faithfulness and sincerity in relationships and agreements. "Peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) is comprehensive well-being, social harmony, and reconciliation. Together, they represent a foundation for a righteous society.

• Group Analysis: "render true and perfect justice": This clause specifies the practical outworking of love for truth and peace, particularly in public life ("in your gates"). "True" (אֱמֶת, emet) reiterates the theme of integrity in judgment. "Perfect" (שָׁלֵם, shalem - implied by the root of "peace" and the context of full justice) suggests completeness, fairness, and impartiality, leaving no room for corruption or distortion in judicial processes.

Zechariah 8 17 Bonus Section

The command to "love truth and peace" and to "render true and perfect justice in your gates" anticipates the deeper fulfillment found in the New Testament. Jesus Christ embodies truth (John 14:6) and is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). His teachings emphasize inner purity of heart and the importance of peaceful relationships (Matthew 5:9). The early Church struggled with issues of fairness and internal conflict, making these Old Testament principles a perennial reminder for all Christian communities. The restored community in Zechariah's vision is a foreshadowing of the kingdom of God, where truth and righteousness reign.

Zechariah 8 17 Commentary

Zechariah 8:17 mandates a dual focus on interpersonal integrity and communal justice. God desires His people not only to cease from malicious thoughts and actions towards one another but also to actively cultivate love for truth and peace. This love should be expressed tangibly in all interactions, particularly in the public square (symbolized by the "gates"). The judgment rendered must be characterized by honesty (truth) and impartiality, leading to holistic well-being (peace) for all members of the community. This prophetic instruction lays the groundwork for a society built on God's principles, reflecting His character and promoting reconciliation and flourishing.