Old Testament
Zephaniah 3:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The remnant of Israel will not do wrong or tell lies. No deceitful words will come from their mouths. They will eat and rest in peace, and no one will make them afraid."
Compare translations
The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth: for they shall feed and lie down, and none shall make them afraid.
What Zephaniah 3:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Zephaniah 3:13, the prophet speaks of a future time when a faithful remnant of Israel will live in righteousness. This group will be characterized by their honesty and integrity, as they will not engage in wrongdoing or deceit. Their words will reflect truthfulness, and they will experience peace and security. The imagery of eating and lying down suggests a life free from fear and anxiety, indicating that God will protect them. This verse highlights the transformation that occurs when people turn back to God, emphasizing the blessings of living in accordance with His will. The remnant symbolizes hope for restoration and a return to a covenant relationship with God, where trust and safety prevail. This promise reassures the faithful that despite past failures, a new beginning is possible, marked by righteousness and peace.
How to apply Zephaniah 3:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to strive for honesty and integrity in our lives. By avoiding deceit and wrongdoing, we can cultivate a sense of peace and security. Trusting in God’s protection allows us to live without fear, knowing that He cares for us and provides for our needs.
Curated for this public verse page. Zephaniah Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Zephaniah 3:13
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Zephaniah 3:13
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Zephaniah
- Author
- Zephaniah the prophet
- Written
- Around 630 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- The kingdom of Judah
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Zephaniah 3:13 mean?
Zephaniah 3:13 describes a future time when a faithful remnant of Israel will live righteously, characterized by honesty and integrity. They will experience peace and security, free from fear, as a result of their relationship with God.
What is the meaning of the remnant in Zephaniah 3:13?
The remnant in Zephaniah 3:13 refers to a small group of faithful people in Israel who remain true to God despite the unfaithfulness of others. This remnant symbolizes hope for restoration and a return to a righteous relationship with God.
How does Zephaniah 3:13 relate to honesty?
Zephaniah 3:13 highlights the importance of honesty by stating that the remnant will not speak lies or have deceitful words. This reflects the broader theme of integrity and truthfulness that leads to a peaceful life.
What themes are present in Zephaniah 3:13?
Key themes in Zephaniah 3:13 include remnant, righteousness, honesty, peace, security, and restoration. These themes illustrate the transformation and blessings that come from returning to God.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.