Zechariah 4:13

And he answered me and said, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord.

Zechariah 4:13 (KJV)

Context

Zechariah 4:13 belongs to the prophet’s vision of a golden lampstand with a bowl on top, seven lamps, and two olive trees on either side (Zechariah 4:2-3). The olive trees supply oil through golden pipes to the lamps, and Zechariah asks what the two olive branches represent. In verse 13, the angel responds with a question: “Knowest thou not what these be?” Zechariah answers, “No, my lord.” This exchange mirrors the earlier question in Zechariah 4:5, where the same angel asks about the lampstand and Zechariah gives the same humble reply.

Meaning

The angel’s question is not a rebuke but a way of drawing Zechariah’s attention to the meaning he is about to reveal. Zechariah’s answer shows an honest confession of ignorance combined with respect for the angel. As a prophet, he had encountered divine visions before, but he did not assume he understood every aspect of this one. Instead, he admitted his lack of knowledge and sought enlightenment from the Lord. The verse highlights the need for divine revelation: the prophet cannot understand the vision on his own; he must be taught by the angel.

Biblical connections

The immediate context explains that the vision concerns the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6). The two olive trees are later identified as “the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth” (Zechariah 4:14), often understood as Joshua the high priest and Zerubbabel the governor, representing the priestly and royal offices. The vision as a whole teaches that God’s work is accomplished by His Spirit, not by human strength.

Application

Zechariah’s humility and willingness to seek understanding are notable. This passage reminds us that it is acceptable to admit when we do not have all the answers. Sometimes we encounter situations, symbols, or mysteries that we do not immediately comprehend. In those moments, it is wise to turn to God and seek His guidance and revelation. The verse also highlights the importance of being teachable and receptive to instruction from the Lord. Spiritual understanding is a gift from God, not a human achievement.

Reflection

Zechariah 4:13 portrays the prophet’s admission of his lack of knowledge and his openness to receive further understanding. This verse encourages us to approach God with humility and seek His guidance when faced with mysteries or questions that surpass our understanding. When we do not understand God’s ways, we should humbly ask and wait for His instruction.