Zechariah 8:16

These are the things that yee shall doe; Speake yee euery man the truth to his neighbor: execute the iudgment of trueth and peace in your gates. Zechariah 8:16 (KJV)

The book of Zechariah is one of the prophetic books in the Old Testament. Zechariah was a prophet who delivered messages to the remnant of Israelites who had returned from exile in Babylon. The prophet encouraged the people to rebuild the temple and renew their commitment to God.

Zechariah 8:16 is part of a larger passage where God is promising blessings and restoration to Jerusalem and its inhabitants. In this verse the Lord sets forth three concrete duties for His people: truthful speech, just judgment, and care for the poor.

“Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour” calls each believer to honesty in all relationships. It stresses that truth‑telling is a foundational element of a healthy community and reflects God’s own character.

“Execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates” (or “execute judgment and justice”) emphasizes fairness and righteousness in both legal matters and personal interactions. The phrase urges the people to render decisions based on truth, integrity, and adherence to God’s moral standards, thereby promoting peace within the city.

“Hasten ye out the need of the poor” adds a compassionate dimension, urging active assistance to those lacking resources. It highlights that true justice includes generosity and practical help, extending love beyond merely avoiding wrongdoing.

Overall, Zechariah 8:16 conveys a powerful message about the qualities and attitudes God desires His people to possess. By speaking truth, executing just judgment, and hastening relief for the poor, believers contribute to the restoration and well‑being of their community and reflect God’s character to the world.

Please note that interpretations of Bible verses may vary, and it is always helpful to study the context and consult different resources to gain a more comprehensive understanding.