Who Is the Prophet Zechariah in the Bible — In Biblical Context
Zechariah was a post-exilic prophet who encouraged the rebuilding of the temple and delivered vivid messianic visions, including Christ's triumphal entry and betrayal for thirty pieces of silver.
Zechariah was a post-exilic prophet who encouraged the rebuilding of the temple and delivered vivid messianic visions, including Christ's triumphal entry and betrayal for thirty pieces of silver.
"Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass." — Zechariah 9:9 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
Zechariah prophesied alongside Haggai during the rebuilding of the temple after the Babylonian exile. His book contains eight symbolic night visions and numerous messianic prophecies. He foretold the Messiah's humble entry into Jerusalem riding on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9), His betrayal for thirty pieces of silver (11:12-13), and the piercing of the One whom they would mourn (12:10)—all fulfilled in Christ's life. Zechariah's visions of God's future kingdom include the promise that 'the LORD shall be king over all the earth' (14:9), offering hope of ultimate restoration.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, Zechariah 9:9, sits inside Zechariah 9. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass."
Supporting Passages
"And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced."
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