Definition: And the word of the LORD of hosts came unto me, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Zechariah 8:18: “And the word of the Lord of hosts came unto me, saying…” Essentially, it's a prophecy – a prediction about the future. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: “The Word of the Lord of Hosts”: This is a really fancy way of saying God. “Lord” refers to Jesus Christ, and “hosts” means He’s speaking about His power and presence. It's a very significant title for God. “Came unto me”: This means that God spoke directly to Zechariah (who was a priest in the Temple). It's like a direct conversation or message. “Saying…”: He’s communicating something important! So, what does this verse mean ? The most common interpretation is that Zechariah is receiving a divine message about an impending great event – likely related to the future of Israel and Judah. It's often translated as: “And God spoke to me, saying…” This suggests that God has plans for the future, and He’s communicating those plans to Zechariah. Important Context: Zechariah was a priest. He was a witness to significant events in Jewish history – including the fall of Babylon and the exile. The verse is part of a larger prophecy. This isn't just a random statement; it’s a significant part of a much larger biblical story about God’s plan for His people. Why is this verse important? It's a foundational moment in Jewish tradition and has been interpreted as a foreshadowing of the coming of Jesus Christ. It speaks to the idea that God is working everything out, even when things seem uncertain. Do you want me to: Explain another part of Zechariah 8:18? Discuss what this verse might be hinting at in a broader biblical context?