Zechariah 14:7

But it shall be one day which shall be known to the Lord, not day, nor night: but it shall come to pass, that at evening time it shall be light.

Zechariah 14:7 (KJV)

Context

Zechariah 14 is a prophetic chapter describing future events associated with the Lord’s return and the establishment of His kingdom on earth. The chapter uses both literal and symbolic language, speaking of the judgment of nations, the restoration of Jerusalem, and the exaltation of the Lord as King over all the earth. The prophet Zechariah ministered during the post-exilic period, encouraging the returned exiles to remain faithful and to look forward to God’s future deliverance and glory.

Meaning

The phrase “one day” refers to a unique and extraordinary day known only to the Lord. It is a day of divine intervention and supernatural events, distinct from ordinary days because it transcends the normal boundaries of time and the natural order. The expression “known to the Lord” indicates that this day is under God’s special notice and sovereign direction; all times and seasons are known to Him, but this day is uniquely His.

The verse describes a day that is neither normal daylight nor normal night, yet at evening time there will be light. This suggests a supernatural transformation of the created order, where the usual rhythm of day and night is altered, and even the expected darkness of evening is replaced by light. The immediate context in Zechariah 14:6 speaks of a day when the light shall not be clear nor dark, and verse 7 clarifies that this unusual condition culminates in light at evening.

Throughout the Bible, light often represents God’s presence, truth, and righteousness, while darkness represents sin, ignorance, and spiritual darkness. The contrast between light and darkness highlights the victory of God over evil. The promise of light at evening time offers hope that God’s purposes will be fulfilled, and His presence will overcome all darkness.

Biblical connections

Zechariah 14:7 points to the future reign of God when His kingdom will be fully established. It speaks of a time when God’s truth and righteousness will be fully revealed, dispelling all spiritual darkness and confusion. The verse indicates that on this special day there will be light shining to the nations, and the earth will be illuminated by the glory of the Lord. Even though the verse mentions that at evening time there will be light, this suggests that even in the darkest moments, God’s light will prevail, symbolizing hope, restoration, and the ultimate triumph of God’s purposes over the forces of darkness.

Application

As believers, we can find encouragement in this verse. It reminds us that no matter how dark the world may seem, the light of God’s truth and His redemptive plan will ultimately prevail. It calls us to trust in God’s sovereignty and eagerly anticipate the day when all things will be made new in Christ. Believers can trust that God, who knows all times and seasons, will bring light and deliverance even in the darkest circumstances.