Zechariah 2:6Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

However, the message transitions into spiritual reflection, with the visage of the Saviour emerging, who seems to take delight in, yet also grieves for, those dwelling on the earth, as they have yielded to the dominion of Satan, who rules over all, suffering under such harsh oppression that they appear burdened by his capricious power. Consequently, He encourages them to escape from the land of the north, representing a frigid realm that symbolizes a particular worldly mindset and condition of conduct; one who remains entrenched in such a state cannot be fervent in spirit nor bear the living word of God within. This is echoed in David's words, as he does not sing, "Thy word is kindled with fire: and thy servant shall love it" (Ps. 118:140). Thus, one who lacks the fiery revelation of God is left cold and lifeless, for Christ declared that due to the increase of wickedness, the love of many would grow cold (Matt. 24:12). Sin is aptly termed the daughter of Babylon, as Babylon signifies confusion; indeed, sin originates not from a resolute and serene mind, but rather from a disordered state, akin to intoxication with the allure of impurity. Hence, we must flee, as if escaping the land of the north—from the lifeless and chilling spirit—and journey toward Zion, which represents true spiritual awareness, denoting the Church of Christ, where we can perceive what delights God, hear the teachings of the holy and consubstantial Trinity, and encounter Christ Himself, who unites us in spirit and purpose: For He affirmed, “I have other sheep, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be one flock, and one shepherd” (Jn. 10:16).

The regions of the earth, referred to by the Greeks as κλίματα, are identified concerning Jerusalem and the temple. The Assyrians and Babylonians, who have caused suffering to God’s people, inhabit the northern territories. Jeremiah references the cauldron representing Jerusalem, which, as noted by Ezekiel, is situated on the north side. The angel who met with Zechariah, speaking to the young man, likened human nature to youth in contrast to the dignity of angels, noting that we ascend to the angelic nature rather than vice versa. He commanded this young man to declare that Jerusalem shall be inhabited.

The same word from the Lord comes to those residing in the north: let them gather from the four corners of the earth to return to Zion, from Babylon. Alternatively, this can be understood as a call to those scattered in the four corners of heaven to flee from the northern land, and you, O Zion, now residing in Babylon, should hurry back to your former homeland. The repetition of ‘O’ serves as a decisive encouragement to flee, emphasizing the urgency of their return.

The northern wind is known for its fierce nature, hardening the hearts of its inhabitants, and calamities arise from the north for all on earth. The one who declared in Isaiah, "I will ascend to heaven, above the stars," boasts dominion in the coldest regions. Isaiah also proclaims smoke rising from the North, and it is noted that those who are distant from the holy city come from afar, including the North and the sea. Additionally, the Spirit of God speaks through Jeremiah, urging those in captivity to return to Jerusalem: "Go, and proclaim my words to the North, telling them to return to Me, O dwelling of Israel."

Thus, we who have resided in the North and lost our fervor for the Lord, scattered throughout the earth, are assured by the Gospel that the Lord will send His angels across the four winds and gather us. We who have been caught in the vices and confusions of this age are called to flee to Zion, which symbolizes the Church of the Lord, and to uphold its teachings firmly, renouncing worldly distractions.

The following words, "Thus says the Lord of Hosts: He has sent me for glory," reflect the voice of the Savior. God Almighty states He was sent by the Father, not as an act of usurpation, for being equal with God did not lead Him to cling to divine status but instead humbled Himself, taking on the form of a servant and obeying the Father even to the point of death on the cross.

It is not surprising that Christ is called Almighty, as shown in the Revelation of John, which confirms Him as the faithful witness and the beginning of God's creation. In the Psalms, "Lift up your heads, O gates; be lifted up, you everlasting doors, that the King of Glory may enter," indicates that where the term Lord of Hosts is mentioned, it relates to Christ, associated with divine omnipotence.

We should recognize that whenever Christ is referred to as Lord of Hosts, He embodies omnipotent power, for all authority in heaven and on earth has been granted to Him, and He affirms that all that belongs to the Father is His. If all is one in essence, the glory aligned with that oneness must also be consistent. Therefore, He has been sent to bring glory to the divine majesty among those who have exploited God’s people, turning the tables so that former oppressors would find themselves captives, and that all who were once enslaved might realize that God Almighty has sent Him.

When it is stated, "He who touches you touches the apple of His eye," it refers to oppression, echoing the words, "Touch not My anointed, nor harm My prophets." Anyone who attempts to afflict the saints of the Lord is as though they aim to injure the apple of His eye, extinguishing its clear light, which Jesus describes as "You are the light of the world."

The Lord will raise His hand against hostile nations and bring His people back either to Jerusalem or to the Church, symbolically understood as these opposing forces that continuously try to bind sinners to their will, compelling them to serve in bondage."