Zechariah 8:23 - Exposition

Ten men. The number ten is used for a large indefinite number (comp. Genesis 31:7 ; Le Genesis 26:26 ; 1 Samuel 1:8 ). Out of all languages ( the languages ) of the nations. The diversity of languages shall not hinder the unity in the faith (comp. Isaiah 66:18 ; Revelation 5:9 ; Revelation 7:9 ). Shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew. Taking hold of the skirt implies a desire to share the privileges, and to be united in fellowship with (comp. Isaiah 4:1 ; Haggai 2:12 ). St. Cyril considers the idea to be that the heathen shall cling to the Jews like children holding their fathers' dress for support and guidance. In "the man that is a Jew" St. Jerome discerns the Messiah. We will go with you. The picture presented to the mind by this verse is of a Jew journeying to Jerusalem from some distant country to keep a solemn festival, and a number of Gentiles clinging round him, asking permission to accompany him on his journey, because they have learned how good the Lord has been to his countrymen. But the ideal intended is much more than this. Salvation, indeed, is of the Jews; it began to be announced at Jerusalem; it was preached by the Jewish apostles; its founder was of the seed of David. But the true Israelites are not merely those who are of the natural posterity of Abraham, but all true Christians united under Christ, the Head. To their number all who would be saved must be joined (comp. Romans 4:11 ; Galatians 3:7 , Galatians 3:29 ; Galatians 4:26 , etc.).