Old Testament
Zechariah 14:18
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Zechariah 14:18, the prophet warns that if the Egyptians do not participate in the Feast of Tabernacles, they will suffer from a lack of rain, leading to a plague.
- Author
- Zechariah the prophet
- Written
- Around 520-480 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
If the family of Egypt does not go up and come, and they have no rain, there will be the plague with which the LORD will strike the heathen who do not come to keep the Feast of Tabernacles.
And if the family of Egypt go not up, and come not, that have no rain; there shall be the plague, wherewith the LORD will smite the heathen that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Zechariah 14:18, the prophet warns that if the Egyptians do not participate in the Feast of Tabernacles, they will suffer from a lack of rain, leading to a plague. This reflects God's expectation for all nations to honor Him by observing this festival. The Feast of Tabernacles, also known as Sukkot, is a time of celebration and remembrance of God's provision during the Israelites' wilderness journey. The verse emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands and the consequences of neglecting them. It serves as a reminder that God's blessings, such as rain and prosperity, are contingent upon the nations' willingness to worship Him. The mention of a plague signifies divine judgment on those who refuse to acknowledge God's sovereignty and participate in His appointed feasts. This passage illustrates the universal call to worship and the serious implications of ignoring God's directives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Zechariah 14:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to actively participate in our faith and community worship. Just as the Egyptians were called to observe the Feast of Tabernacles, we too should engage in practices that honor God. Neglecting our spiritual responsibilities can lead to negative consequences, both personally and collectively.
Curated for this public verse page. Zechariah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Zechariah 14:18 mean for today?
Zechariah 14:18 highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands and the consequences of neglecting worship. For today, it serves as a reminder that engaging in communal worship and honoring God through our actions is essential. Just as the Egyptians faced consequences for not participating in the Feast of Tabernacles, we too should recognize the significance of our spiritual responsibilities and the blessings that come from honoring God.
Why is the Feast of Tabernacles important?
The Feast of Tabernacles, or Sukkot, is significant as it commemorates God's provision during the Israelites' journey in the wilderness. It is a time of celebration, gratitude, and reflection on God's faithfulness. In Zechariah 14:18, the call for all nations to observe this feast underscores its universal importance in recognizing God's sovereignty and the blessings that come from obedience to His commands.
What is the consequence mentioned in Zechariah 14:18?
In Zechariah 14:18, the consequence for the Egyptians not participating in the Feast of Tabernacles is a lack of rain, leading to a plague. This illustrates the serious implications of neglecting God's directives and the divine judgment that can result from failing to honor Him. It emphasizes that God's blessings, such as rain and prosperity, are contingent upon obedience and worship.
How does Zechariah 14:18 relate to divine judgment?
Zechariah 14:18 relates to divine judgment by showing that God holds nations accountable for their worship practices. The verse warns that those who refuse to participate in the Feast of Tabernacles will face consequences, such as a plague. This reflects the broader biblical theme that neglecting God's commands can lead to judgment, highlighting the importance of recognizing His authority and engaging in worship.

The Book of Zechariah
Zechariah 1: Call to Return and Vision of Horses
The word of the LORD comes to Zechariah the son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo, telling the people not to be like their fathers who refuse to listen to the earlier prophets. The LORD reminds them that their fathers experience the consequences of disobedience. The people acknowledge that the LORD deals with them according to their ways and actions.
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