Hebrew Word Reference — Haggai 2:21
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
Zerubbabel was a leader of the tribe of Judah during the time of the Israelites' exile and return, as mentioned in 1 Chronicles 3:19 and the book of Ezra. He was the son of Pedaiah and father of several children, including Meshullam and Hananiah. Zerubbabel played a key role in the Israelites' history.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Judah living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at 1Ch.3.19; son of: Pedaiah (H6305H); brother of: Shimei (H8096J); father of: Meshullam (H4918H), Hananiah (H2608L), Shelomith (H8019I), Hashubah (H2807), Ohel (H0169), Berechiah (H1296), Hasadiah (H2619), Jushab-hesed (H3142) and Abiud (G0010); also called Sheshbazzar at Ezr.1.8,11; 5.14,16; KJV: Zorobabel at Mat.1.12,13; § Zerubbabel = "sown in Babylon" the grandson of king Jehoiachin and leader of the first group of returning exiles from Babylon
Usage: Occurs in 20 OT verses. KJV: Zerubbabel. See also: 1 Chronicles 3:19; Haggai 1:12; Zechariah 4:10.
This Hebrew word refers to a governor or leader of a city or region. In the Bible, it describes officials in the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, such as those appointed by King Solomon or King David.
Definition: governor Aramaic equivalent: pe.chah (פֶּחָה "governor" H6347)
Usage: Occurs in 27 OT verses. KJV: captain, deputy, governor. See also: 1 Kings 10:15; Esther 8:9; Isaiah 36:9.
Judah is the name of the tribe descended from Judah, the son of Jacob. It is also the name of the region where the tribe lived. The name means 'praised' and is first mentioned in Genesis.
Definition: § Judah = "praised" the tribe descended from Judah the son of Jacob
Usage: Occurs in 754 OT verses. KJV: Judah. See also: Genesis 29:35; 1 Samuel 23:3; 2 Kings 14:13.
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
This Hebrew word is a simple way of saying 'I' or 'me', often used for emphasis. It is used by people like David in the Psalms to express their thoughts and feelings. The word is a basic part of the Hebrew language.
Definition: I (first pers. sing. -usually used for emphasis)
Usage: Occurs in 803 OT verses. KJV: I, (as for) me, mine, myself, we, [idiom] which, [idiom] who. See also: Genesis 6:17; Leviticus 19:36; 1 Samuel 25:24.
In the Bible, this word means to shake or quake, often describing the earth or sky trembling with fear. It's used in the books of Psalms and Isaiah, describing God's power and majesty.
Definition: 1) to quake, shake 1a) (Qal) to quake, shake 1b) (Niphal) to be made to quake 1c)(Hiphil) 1c1) to cause to quake 1c2) to cause to spring or leap (of horse)
Usage: Occurs in 30 OT verses. KJV: make afraid, (re-) move, quake, (make to) shake, (make to) tremble. See also: Judges 5:4; Jeremiah 49:21; Psalms 18:8.
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
The Hebrew word for heaven or sky, it refers to the visible universe and the abode of God. It is often used in the Bible to describe the dwelling place of celestial bodies.
Definition: 1) heaven, heavens, sky 1a) visible heavens, sky 1a1) as abode of the stars 1a2) as the visible universe, the sky, atmosphere, etc 1b) Heaven (as the abode of God) Aramaic equivalent: sha.ma.yin (שָׁמַ֫יִן "heaven" H8065)
Usage: Occurs in 395 OT verses. KJV: air, [idiom] astrologer, heaven(-s). See also: Genesis 1:1; 1 Samuel 2:10; Job 28:21.
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
The land or earth refers to the soil or ground, and can also mean a country, territory, or region. In the Bible, it is used to describe the earth and its inhabitants, and is often translated as 'land' or 'country'.
Definition: : soil 1) land, earth 1a) earth 1a1) whole earth (as opposed to a part) 1a2) earth (as opposed to heaven) 1a3) earth (inhabitants) 1b) land 1b1) country, territory 1b2) district, region 1b3) tribal territory 1b4) piece of ground 1b5) land of Canaan, Israel 1b6) inhabitants of land 1b7) Sheol, land without return, (under) world 1b8) city (-state) 1c) ground, surface of the earth 1c1) ground 1c2) soil 1d) (in phrases) 1d1) people of the land 1d2) space or distance of country (in measurements of distance) 1d3) level or plain country 1d4) land of the living 1d5) end(s) of the earth 1e) (almost wholly late in usage) 1e1) lands, countries 1e1a) often in contrast to Canaan
Usage: Occurs in 2190 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] common, country, earth, field, ground, land, [idiom] natins, way, [phrase] wilderness, world. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 18:18; Genesis 42:13.
Context — Zerubbabel the LORD’s Signet Ring
19Is there still seed in the barn? The vine, the fig, the pomegranate, and the olive tree have not yet yielded fruit. But from this day on, I will bless you.”
20For the second time that day, the twenty-fourth day of the month, the word of the LORD came to Haggai, saying,
21“Tell Zerubbabel governor of Judah that I am about to shake the heavens and the earth:
22I will overturn royal thrones and destroy the power of the kingdoms of the nations. I will overturn chariots and their riders; horses and their riders will fall, each by the sword of his brother.
23On that day, declares the LORD of Hosts, I will take you, My servant, Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, declares the LORD, and I will make you like My signet ring, for I have chosen you, declares the LORD of Hosts.”
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) |
| 1 |
Zechariah 4:6–10 |
So he said to me, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD of Hosts. What are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain. Then he will bring forth the capstone accompanied by shouts of ‘Grace, grace to it!’” Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, “The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house, and his hands will complete it. Then you will know that the LORD of Hosts has sent me to you. For who has despised the day of small things? But these seven eyes of the LORD, which scan the whole earth, will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel.” |
| 2 |
Haggai 2:6–7 |
For this is what the LORD of Hosts says: “Once more, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. I will shake all the nations, and they will come with all their treasures, and I will fill this house with glory, says the LORD of Hosts. |
| 3 |
Haggai 1:1 |
In the second year of the reign of Darius, on the first day of the sixth month, the word of the LORD came through Haggai the prophet to Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, stating |
| 4 |
Hebrews 12:26–27 |
At that time His voice shook the earth, but now He has promised, “Once more I will shake not only the earth, but heaven as well.” The words “Once more” signify the removal of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that the unshakable may remain. |
| 5 |
Ezra 5:2 |
Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jozadak rose up and began to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. And the prophets of God were with them, helping them. |
| 6 |
Revelation 16:17–19 |
Then the seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came from the throne in the temple, saying, “It is done!” And there were flashes of lightning, and rumblings, and peals of thunder, and a great earthquake the likes of which had not occurred since men were upon the earth—so mighty was the great quake. The great city was split into three parts, and the cities of the nations collapsed. And God remembered Babylon the great and gave her the cup of the wine of the fury of His wrath. |
| 7 |
Psalms 46:6 |
Nations rage, kingdoms crumble; the earth melts when He lifts His voice. |
| 8 |
Ezra 2:2 |
accompanied by Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum, and Baanah. This is the count of the men of Israel: |
| 9 |
Joel 3:16 |
The LORD will roar from Zion and raise His voice from Jerusalem; heaven and earth will tremble. But the LORD will be a refuge for His people, a stronghold for the people of Israel. |
| 10 |
Haggai 1:14 |
So the LORD stirred the spirit of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, as well as the spirit of all the remnant of the people. And they came and began the work on the house of the LORD of Hosts, their God, |
Haggai 2:21 Summary
[God is saying that He is about to do something big and powerful, like a major earthquake, and it will affect everything in heaven and on earth. This is a reminder that God is all-powerful and in control, as we see in Psalm 46:10 and Isaiah 46:10. He is speaking to Zerubbabel, a leader of the Jewish people, and telling him to get ready for this big event. We can learn from this verse that God is always working to bring about His plans and purposes, and we can trust in His power and wisdom, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean for God to 'shake the heavens and the earth' in Haggai 2:21?
This phrase is a figure of speech that symbolizes a major upheaval or transformation, as seen in other passages like Isaiah 13:13 and Hebrews 12:26, where God's power and authority are demonstrated.
Who is Zerubbabel and why is he being addressed in this verse?
Zerubbabel was the governor of Judah, a leader of the Jewish people, and a descendant of King David, as mentioned in Haggai 1:1 and 1 Chronicles 3:19, and God is speaking to him directly to convey a message of hope and promise.
Is this verse related to the end times or a specific historical event?
While the exact timing and context of this verse are not specified, similar language is used in other passages like Joel 3:16 and Hebrews 12:27 to describe God's judgment and redemption, suggesting a possible eschatological connection.
How does this verse fit into the larger context of the book of Haggai?
Haggai 2:21 is part of a larger message of encouragement and warning to the Jewish people, urging them to prioritize God's work and promises, as seen in Haggai 1:8 and Haggai 2:4, and to trust in His power and authority.
Reflection Questions
- What are the things in my life that need to be 'shaken' by God, and how can I surrender them to Him?
- How can I, like Zerubbabel, be a leader and servant of God, and what responsibilities and challenges come with that role?
- What are the 'heavens and the earth' in my own life that need to be aligned with God's will and purpose, and how can I seek His guidance and wisdom?
- In what ways can I trust in God's power and authority, even when faced with uncertainty or chaos, and how can I demonstrate that trust to others?
Gill's Exposition on Haggai 2:21
Speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah,.... The former discourse or prophecy chiefly related to the people, for their encouragement in building; this is directed to the prince over them, to support
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Haggai 2:21
And again the word of the LORD came unto Haggai in the four and twentieth day of the month, saying, God's promise through Zerubbabel to Israel of safety in the coming commotions. Verse 20.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Haggai 2:21
Speak my word, and in my name, saith the Lord. To Zerubbabel governor of Judah: see ,12. I will shake the heavens and the earth: see .
Trapp's Commentary on Haggai 2:21
Haggai 2:21 Speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah, saying, I will shake the heavens and the earth;Ver. 21. Speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah] Governors are sure to meet with many difficulties and discouragements (high seats are never but uneasy), and had need therefore of singular consolation, that they may hold on their course, like the sun in the firmament, and show themselves to be of an undaunted resolution. We may well say to governors, as that prophetic Simeon spoke to the pillars which he whipped before the earthquake: Stand fast, for ye shall be shaken. I will shake the heavens and the earth] sc. By abrogating and abolishing both Jewish ceremonies and heathenish superstitions, Hebrews 12:27. As also by national commotions, and translations of monarchies; the Greeks shall break the power of the Persians, the Romans of the Greeks, the Goths and other barbarous nations of the Romans, Matthew 24:7. But especially, by casting the devil out of the heaven of men s hearts, Luke 10:18, those strongholds wherein he had entrenched himself, 2 Corinthians 10:4-5, that the ransomed of the Lord may receive a kingdom, which cannot be moved, Hebrews 12:28, and partake of those new heavens and new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness, 2 Peter 3:13, even that world to come, as these days of the gospel are called, Hebrews 2:5.
Ellicott's Commentary on Haggai 2:21
(20-23) The Fifth Utterance.—The promise of Hag 2:6-9 is enlarged. The heathen powers shall be consumed one of another, but the line of Zerubbabel shall stand secure, and be a witness to Jehovah’s faithfulness. Here, as in Haggai 2:6-9, the only satisfactory interpretation is that Haggai was charged with a prediction—purposely vague and indistinct in character—of the extension of God’s kingdom by the Christian dispensation. “Zerubbabel,” the descendant of David, includes in himself Him who was according to the flesh his lineal descendant. Just in the same way in older prophecy “David” is himself identified with that Messiah in whom the glories of the Davidic house were to culminate. (See Psalms 89:19, and comp. Jennings and Lowe, Commentary, Introd. to Psalms 89) It appears as unnecessary to find a literal fulfilment of the prediction of the overthrow of the world-powers, “every one by the sword of his brother,” as of the utterance (repeated from Haggai 2:6), “I will shake the heavens and the earth.” It is true that the empires of Babylon, Persia, Syria, and Greece each in its turn declined and passed away. But in the Roman Empire the world-power was as strongly represented as ever, when Christ came on earth. It was to succumb later on to moral, not to material force. Nothing, in fact, can be extracted from these passages beyond a dim presage of the heathen kingdoms being pervaded by the moral influence of the Christian Church.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Haggai 2:21
Verse 21. I will shake the heavens and the earth] Calmet supposes that the invasion of Cambyses, and his death, are what the prophet has in view by this shaking of the heavens and the earth: but this invasion and defeat happened three years before they had begun to work at the temple; and how could it be made a matter of interest to Zerubbabel? Calmet answers this, by translating the words in the past tense; and shows that the fact was recalled to Zerubbabel's attention, to fix his confidence in God, c. Bp. Newcome says we may well understand this and the twenty-second verse Haggai 2:22 of the calamity undergone by Babylon in the reign of Darius of the Macedonian conquests in Persia; and of the wars which the successors of Alexander waged against each other: others under stand it of the Romans.
Cambridge Bible on Haggai 2:21
Ch. Haggai 2:20-23. The Fourth Prophecy In a short, final prophecy, uttered on the same day as that which preceded it, Haggai addresses Zerubbabel as the Ruler and Representative of the Jewish nation, and the Predecessor and Type of the true King of the Jews. The former prediction (ver. 6, 7) of the shaking of heaven and earth, and the overthrow of mighty nations is repeated. But to Zerubbabel, and in him to the nation which he represented, a gracious promise of safety and distinction is vouchsafed.
Barnes' Notes on Haggai 2:21
I will shake - Haggai closes by resuming the words of a former prophecy to Zerubbabel and Joshua, which ended in the coming of Christ.
Whedon's Commentary on Haggai 2:21
THE OF , 20-23.The fourth utterance of Haggai is Messianic in character; it promises the exaltation of Zerubbabel, the prince of David’s house.
Sermons on Haggai 2:21
| Sermon | Description |
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(Exodus) Exodus 12:1-2
by J. Vernon McGee
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In this sermon, the preacher discusses the significance of the Passover feast and the death of the firstborn. He emphasizes that redemption is achieved through the blood of Jesus a |
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(Reformation Within Protestantism): Real and Practical Beliefs
by A.W. Tozer
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In this sermon, the speaker discusses the radical changes that have occurred in the world since Jesus' time, such as the industrial and communicational revolutions. These changes h |
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(Exodus) Exodus 27:9-21
by J. Vernon McGee
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In this sermon, the speaker discusses the significance of light in the Bible and its connection to Christ. The speaker explains that while Jesus was on earth, he referred to himsel |
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The Power of the Holy Spirit
by J. Edwin Orr
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In this sermon, the preacher uses various illustrations to convey his message. He starts by talking about a farmer and his tractor, highlighting the importance of having the right |
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(Men Who Saw God) 4. Joshua
by Roy Hession
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In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Joshua and the battle of Jericho. Joshua, feeling inadequate with his small army, encounters a man with a drawn sword who revea |
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The Holy Spirit - Part 1
by T. Austin-Sparks
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In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the prophecies of Zechariah, specifically chapter 4. The passage describes a vision of a golden candlestick with seven lamps and two olive t |
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Apostleship - Part 4
by Norman Grubb
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In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of having faith in God and how it relates to overcoming obstacles. The sermon references Joshua's command to cross the river and c |