Old Testament
Zechariah 4:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 7th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God communicates a powerful message to Zerubbabel, who was tasked with rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.
- Author
- Zechariah the prophet
- Written
- Around 520-480 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Then he told me, "This is the LORD's message to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD of hosts.
Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.
Plain Meaning
The angel tells Zechariah that this vision carries a message for Zerubbabel, the governor leading the rebuilding of the Jerusalem temple. The message is that the work will not succeed through human armies or human strength. It will succeed because God's Spirit will do it. 'LORD of hosts' means the LORD who commands all heavenly armies — a title that underlines His power to back up the promise.
Read It in Context
Zerubbabel had started rebuilding the temple after the Jews returned from exile in Babylon, but the work had stalled. Opposition and discouragement had stopped it. This message comes to him in the middle of Zechariah's vision of a golden lampstand fed by olive trees — a picture of God's Spirit supplying what is needed.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Zechariah 4:6 and any verse in the Bible.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God communicates a powerful message to Zerubbabel, who was tasked with rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The phrase 'Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit' emphasizes that human strength and resources are insufficient for accomplishing God's work. Instead, it is through the Holy Spirit that true success and strength come. This message reassures Zerubbabel that despite the challenges he faces, he will succeed not through his own efforts but through divine assistance. It highlights the importance of relying on God's Spirit rather than solely on human abilities or military might. This principle applies to all believers, reminding them that spiritual endeavors require spiritual empowerment. The verse encourages faith in God's provision and guidance, reinforcing the idea that God is ultimately in control and will accomplish His purposes through His Spirit. Explore related perseverance.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Zechariah 4:6 to your life
In our daily lives, we often face challenges that seem insurmountable. This verse reminds us to rely on God's Spirit for strength and guidance rather than solely on our own abilities. By seeking God's help through prayer and faith, we can overcome obstacles and fulfill our purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. Zechariah Summary · Zechariah 4:6 Meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Zechariah 4:6 mean?
Zechariah 4:6 conveys God's message to Zerubbabel, emphasizing that success in rebuilding the temple will not come from human strength or resources, but through the empowerment of God's Spirit.
What is the meaning of 'Not by might, nor by power' in Zechariah 4:6?
The phrase 'Not by might, nor by power' highlights that human efforts and military strength are insufficient for achieving God's purposes; instead, it is through the Holy Spirit that true success is attained.
How does Zechariah 4:6 apply to our lives today?
Zechariah 4:6 encourages us to seek God's guidance and strength in our challenges, reminding us that we can overcome obstacles through faith and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
What themes are present in Zechariah 4:6?
Key themes in Zechariah 4:6 include divine empowerment, the importance of faith over human strength, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the idea of trusting God to guide us through challenges.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.