The Book of Zephaniah
The name Zephaniah means "The Lord hides (or protects)." The religious condition of Judah declined markedly following the death of Hexekiah, but Josiah launched a sweeping reform. He was backed by Jeremiah and Nahum, but their calls for repentance fell on deaf ears. Judah became ripe for judgment.
The prophet was evidently a person of considerable socail standing in Judah. He was a fourth generation descendant of King Hezekiah. Zephaniah shows great familiarity with court circles and current political issues.
The intent of the author was to announce to Judah God's approaching judgment. His main theme was the coming of the day of the Lord, when God would severely punish the nations. He portrays the stark horror of that ordeal, but also makes it clear that God will yet be merciful toward His people.
In chapters 1-2, Zephaniah, 20 years prior to their captivity, foretells
about the looming judgment that was waiting Judah if they did not turn back to YHWH. He also predicted the desolation of Nineveh the capital city of Assyria in 612 B.C. “And He will stretch out His hand against the north and destroy Assyria, and He will make Nineveh a desolation, Parched like the wilderness” (2:13). In chapter 3, God demonstrates His mercy by how He does not give the sinner what they deserve. Zephaniah wrote that there would be a day of hope, when the remnant of Israel would come back out of captivity under the YHWH’s protection, to fulfill His promise. “The LORD has taken away His judgments against you, He has cleared away your enemies. The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst; You will fear disaster no more” (3:15).
continue to Haggai...
The prophet was evidently a person of considerable socail standing in Judah. He was a fourth generation descendant of King Hezekiah. Zephaniah shows great familiarity with court circles and current political issues.
The intent of the author was to announce to Judah God's approaching judgment. His main theme was the coming of the day of the Lord, when God would severely punish the nations. He portrays the stark horror of that ordeal, but also makes it clear that God will yet be merciful toward His people.
about the looming judgment that was waiting Judah if they did not turn back to YHWH. He also predicted the desolation of Nineveh the capital city of Assyria in 612 B.C. “And He will stretch out His hand against the north and destroy Assyria, and He will make Nineveh a desolation, Parched like the wilderness” (2:13).
continue to Haggai...
