Who Wrote Zechariah? Exploring the Meaning, Message, and History of this Biblical Book

The Historical Setting of Zechariah

To understand Zechariah, we must first step into the world he lived in. The Jewish people had just returned from Babylonian exile. Jerusalem lay in ruins, and the once-glorious Temple was no more. It was a time of uncertainty, but also of hope. The people were rebuilding not just their homes, but their identity.
Zechariah, along with the prophet Haggai, played a key role in encouraging the people during this time. He began his prophetic mission around 520 BCE, during the reign of King Darius of Persia. His words were filled with visions and symbols, offering comfort and urging the people to remain faithful.
The early chapters of the book are dated and correspond with this period of rebuilding. Zechariah’s messages were not just spiritual—they were deeply tied to the community’s physical and emotional restoration. He reminded the people that their actions mattered and that their return to the land was part of a larger story.

Who Was Zechariah?

Zechariah was the son of Berechiah and the grandson of Iddo, a priestly family. This lineage placed him within the spiritual leadership of the community. His name, Zechariah (זְכַרְיָה), means “Yah remembers” or “remembrance of the Divine.” It’s a name filled with hope, suggesting that even in exile, the people were not forgotten.
This theme of remembrance runs through his prophecies. Zechariah often reminded the people of their ancestors’ mistakes, urging them not to repeat them. But he also emphasized that renewal was possible. His visions painted a picture of a future where justice, peace, and prosperity would return.
Unlike some prophets who focused heavily on rebuke, Zechariah’s tone was often gentle and encouraging. He invited the people to imagine a better future and to take part in building it. His words were like a balm to a wounded nation, offering both challenge and comfort.