Definition: And Judah also shall fight at Jerusalem; and the wealth of all the heathen round about shall be gathered together, gold, and silver, and apparel, in great abundance.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Zechariah 14:14. It’s a really powerful and dramatic statement about the future. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a massive, incredibly rich gathering of people – essentially a huge celebration – happening right within Jerusalem. It suggests that the entire world is coming to be gathered together and given immense wealth. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And Judah also shall fight at Jerusalem…” : This tells us that the city of Judah (which is part of Israel) will be the center of this event. It's not just a battle; it’s a major conflict happening within their capital. “…and the wealth of all the heathen round about shall be gathered together…” : “Heathen” in this context refers to foreign nations – people from other countries who aren’t part of Israel. This means everyone – all the countries and peoples around the world – will be coming to participate. “…gold, and silver, and apparel…” : This is the exciting part! The wealth isn't just about material goods (like gold or silver). It includes things like: Gold: Precious metal, representing wealth. Silver: Another valuable metal. Apparel: Clothing, suggesting a lavish and celebratory atmosphere. Overall Interpretation – What it Means in a Larger Context: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy about the end times, specifically concerning the time of Jesus’s arrival. It speaks to a future where God will establish his kingdom and bring about a time of great abundance and peace. It's a message of hope and blessing for all nations. Important Note: The exact meaning and significance of this verse are debated among theologians, but it remains one of the most significant passages in the Old Testament. It’s often linked to themes of divine judgment, global unity, and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that you’d like me to answer? For example: Are you curious about its historical context? Would you like a more detailed explanation of a particular element (like "heathen" or the symbolism of wealth)?