How to Pronounce Zechariah

We’ve all struggled to pronounce Bible names and places, especially those pesky Old Testament names! This free audio Bible name pronunciation guide is a valuable tool in your study of God’s word. Click the PLAY button below to hear how to pronounce Zechariah . There is also a phonetic guide to use to see the proper pronunciation of Zechariah . For more information about Zechariah , check out the Easton Bible dictionary entry as well.

Audio Pronunciation of Zechariah

Phonetic Pronunciation of Zechariah

zeh-kuh-RAI-uh

How to Say Zechariah

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Learn more about Zechariah

Zechariah is a significant figure in the biblical canon. The name Zechariah means "Jehovah is renowned or remembered." He is chiefly recognized as one of the twelve minor prophets in Judah. But aside from his prophetic roles, several other individuals bearing the name Zechariah are mentioned throughout biblical texts, serving in various capacities.

Who Was Zechariah?

The most notable Zechariah was a prophet from Judah, the eleventh among the twelve minor prophets. Of priestly lineage, he was the son of Berechiah and the grandson of Iddo. His prophetic journey commenced during the second year of King Darius, approximately sixteen years post the first group's return from exile. Zechariah's contemporaneity with the prophet Haggai is also evident in biblical records.

However, Zechariah isn't just a single entity in the biblical narrative. Multiple individuals named Zechariah appear in the scriptures, including a high priest, advisers to kings, Levites, and tribal chiefs, among others.

Bible References for Zechariah

  • Zechariah's visions and prophecies: Zechariah 1-14
  • Zechariah's condemnation of King Ahaziah and the people: 2 Chronicles 24:20-21
  • Zechariah's counsel to King Uzziah: 2 Chronicles 26:5
  • Zechariah among the chiefs of Reuben: 1 Chronicles 5:7
  • Zechariah as a porter: 1 Chronicles 9:21
  • ... and many more references spread across Chronicles, Ezra, and Nehemiah.

Significance of Zechariah

Zechariah's significance isn't solely limited to his prophecies. His very name, meaning "Jehovah remembers," holds weight. His book in the Old Testament offers a blend of visions, prophecies, and historical recounts that provide both solace and hope to the Israelites during tumultuous times.

His boldness in condemning wicked rulers, even at the risk of his own life, is a testament to his unwavering faith and dedication to righteousness. The martyrdom of Zechariah, as mentioned in the New Testament (Matthew 23:35, Luke 11:51), amplifies the importance of standing firm in one's beliefs, regardless of the consequences.

Pronunciation Challenges

Zechariah's name can be challenging due to its biblical Hebrew origins. The emphasis is usually placed on the third syllable: Ze-cha-RI-ah.

Main Themes about Zechariah

The primary themes of the Book of Zechariah include repentance, restoration, and the coming of the Messiah. The series of visions serve as symbolic tales of Israel's history, offering solace to exiles and infusing hope. Moreover, the prophet's confrontations with rulers underscore the recurring biblical theme of the conflict between divine mandates and earthly powers.

Zechariah in History, Mythology, and Literature

While Zechariah is predominantly a biblical figure, the themes and lessons from his life and prophecies have permeated literature. His steadfastness in faith, even in the face of death, has been alluded to in various literary works emphasizing the virtues of courage, righteousness, and unwavering belief.