Zechariah 14:13Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

This signifies their victory over enemies, trampling adversaries as if they were scorpions, “treading on the aspid and the basilisk, the lion and the serpent” (Ps. 90:13). They will shine with glory and honor, amassing treasures akin to gold, silver, and garments; for it is undoubtable that the intent of this prophecy transcends mere earthly possessions. The true wealth of the saints is incorruptible, celestial, and enduring—gathered by those who instruct and are otherwise exalted within the Church, as they draw the strength of nations to Christ through faith. In this manner, Christ proclaimed of Himself that He “plundered the vessels of the strong” (Matthew 12:29). Should anyone propose that the mention of Judah, who gathers material wealth, is indicative of worldly wisdom leading to glorification and honor in the pursuit of righteousness, such a viewpoint may indeed hold validity. For instance, the wise women of Israel took wealth from the Egyptians, borrowing gold, silver, and garments from their neighbors and fellow believers (Exodus 3:21-22; Exodus 11:2). Thus, in worldly and tangible treasures, the brilliance of spiritual riches is illustrated. The foremost wealth of spiritual leaders comprises their disciples. The Apostle Paul likewise affirmed to those who found salvation and faith through him, declaring, “I testify to your praise, brethren, which I have in Christ Jesus” (1 Cor. 15:31); he further referred to them as “a crown and joy” (Phil. 4:1).

When these extraordinary events come to pass—where humanity’s flesh may disintegrate, eyes become parched, and tongues dry up among those who speak maliciously—a wave of great astonishment will sweep over them. This reflects the term ἔκστασις as used in the LXX. Each will grab hold of their neighbor’s hand, joining in unity due to the fear and dire straits surrounding them. Judah will also rise against his own city, as previously noted (Zech. 12), but ultimately the Lord will grant him triumph. The treasures of the nations that sought to oppose Jerusalem will be gathered—gold, silver, and a wealth of fine garments, the most valued items.

The unfortunate Judas anticipated this treasure, seeking to gain thirty pieces of silver, the price he placed on the Lord. However, in continuing with our established pattern, we will relate these occurrences to the blessings of the Church, as all within it will marvel at their foes' defeat and their own joy. Each person will take their neighbor’s hand to forge a bond of trust and reliance.

The Hebrew text states that Judah will fight against Jerusalem, a phrase the LXX translates as Judah will prepare in Jerusalem. This can be understood in two ways: it may signify that Judah once proclaimed the Lord’s name but, swayed by persecution, turned against the followers of Christ to find solace; or it may indicate that Judah, representing every believer filled with hope, will not battle against Jerusalem but rather ready himself in Jerusalem to confront his adversaries.

Judah will amass the riches of the nations around him—gold and silver and an abundance of fine garments. As has been stated previously, gold and silver symbolize understanding and wisdom, and similarly, the garments that adorn the Church of Christ are significant. As recounted, “At Thy right hand stood the queen in gold from Ophir” (Psalm 44:10). The congregation of believers rejoices in being clothed with these garments, proclaiming, “I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness” (Isaiah 61:10). Indeed, the Lord declares, “I have dressed you in splendid garments, and adorned you with fine linen” (Ezek. 16:10). The term τριχάπτοις refers to exquisitely fine garments, so delicate they appear almost like hair. The Church gathers these garments so every member may be clothed, for the true messenger urges, “Let your garments always be white” (Ecclesiastes 9:8).