Verse 5
As Zechariah 12:5 stands now it seems to describe the effect produced upon the inhabitants of Judah by the divine manifestation against the enemies. They will be inspired with new hope and courage.
Governors R.V., “chieftains.” See on Zechariah 9:7. Here as there it seems to denote the divisions rather than the leaders.
The inhabitants of Jerusalem shall be my strength in Jehovah of hosts their God Jehovah has chosen Jerusalem as his dwelling place, hence he cannot permit the hostile nations to occupy it; to prevent its capture he strengthens the inhabitants so that they may drive off the enemy. The inhabitants of the country regions know that Jerusalem is closely united with the rest of Judah, therefore any assistance given to Jerusalem is assistance given to all Judah. In these thoughts the divisions of Judah find their strength and inspiration. The Hebrew is peculiar. A very slight change would give, “Strength is to the inhabitants of Jerusalem in Jehovah of hosts, their God”; and this is preferable.
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