Zechariah 13:5

Arabic Simplified (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

وَسَيَقُولُ كُلُّ وَاحِدٍ مِنْهُمْ: ‹لَسْتُ نَبِيًّا، أنَا مُزَارِعٌ. لِأنِّي عَمِلْتُ لَدَى صَاحِبِ أرْضٍ مُنْذُ صِغَرِي.›

What Does This Mean?

This verse talks about someone who is pretending not to be a prophet but claims to be a farmer instead, saying he learned how to take care of animals since his youth. The speaker seems to be trying to avoid being recognized as a prophet.

Explained for Children

Imagine if you were really good at playing the piano and people thought you were special because of that. But one day, you tell them you're just a normal kid who plays with toys all day! That's kind of what this person is doing - he's trying to act like he’s not special when he actually has a big job as a prophet.

Historical Background

Zechariah wrote this book around 520 BC. He was one of the last Old Testament prophets, addressing the people of Judah who had returned from exile in Babylon. The verse reflects concerns about false prophets and the importance of authentic spiritual leaders in that time period.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, we might apply this to a situation where someone has a special talent or ability but tries to downplay it out of humility or fear. For example, a talented artist who insists they are just a regular person to avoid attention.

Topics

• falsehood
• humility
• prophecy
• authenticity
• identity
• faith

Related Verses

• 1 Samuel 9:20-21
• Isaiah 65:25
• Matthew 7:15-20
• Jeremiah 23:28
• Ezekiel 22:28

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the person in this verse pretending not to be a prophet?

The person might be trying to avoid persecution or unwanted attention that often comes with being recognized as a prophet.

What does it mean by 'man taught me to keep cattle from my youth'?

This phrase emphasizes the speaker's background as a farmer, suggesting he has practical skills and knowledge passed down from childhood.

How can this verse be applied in modern life?

In today’s context, we might see parallels with individuals who underplay their talents or abilities out of fear or humility, much like the person in the verse trying to avoid being seen as a prophet.

What does Zechariah 13:5 teach about authenticity?

This verse underscores the importance of authenticity and the dangers of living a false identity. It suggests that true character should not be hidden but acknowledged.