Old Testament
Zechariah 13:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
If someone asks him, 'What are these wounds in your hands?' he will answer, 'I was wounded in the house of my friends.'
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And one shall say unto him, What are these wounds in thine hands? Then he shall answer, Those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends.
What Zechariah 13:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Zechariah 13:6, the verse speaks of a person who bears wounds on their hands, and when questioned about them, they reveal that these injuries were inflicted by friends. This passage is often interpreted as a prophetic reference to Jesus Christ, who was wounded during his crucifixion and betrayal by those close to him. The phrase 'in the house of my friends' suggests a deep sense of betrayal and pain that comes from those we trust. This highlights the theme of suffering and the emotional scars that can arise from relationships. The wounds symbolize not just physical pain but also the spiritual and emotional wounds that can occur in close relationships, reminding us of the complexities of love and betrayal. It serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of loyalty and the reality of human relationships, where even those we hold dear can cause us deep hurt.
How to apply Zechariah 13:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own relationships and the potential for hurt within them. It reminds us to approach our friendships with care and to be mindful of how our actions can impact others. Additionally, it invites us to seek healing from past wounds and to extend grace to those who may have hurt us.
Curated for this public verse page. Zechariah Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Zechariah
- Author
- Zechariah the prophet
- Written
- Around 520-480 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Zechariah 13:6 mean?
Zechariah 13:6 refers to a person with wounds on their hands who explains that these injuries were caused by friends. This verse is often seen as a prophecy about Jesus, highlighting themes of betrayal and the pain that can arise from close relationships.
What is the significance of 'wounds in your hands' in Zechariah 13:6?
The 'wounds in your hands' symbolize both physical and emotional pain, representing the suffering that can come from betrayal by those we trust. This imagery serves to illustrate the deep scars left by relationships and the complexities of love.
What does 'in the house of my friends' mean in Zechariah 13:6?
The phrase 'in the house of my friends' indicates that the wounds were inflicted by those who were once close, emphasizing the pain of betrayal. It suggests that the deepest hurts often come from those we consider friends or loved ones.
How does Zechariah 13:6 relate to Jesus?
Many interpret Zechariah 13:6 as a prophetic reference to Jesus, who was wounded during his crucifixion and betrayed by his followers. This connection highlights the theme of suffering and the emotional impact of betrayal in the context of his sacrifice.
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