Zechariah 1:18

18. Then lifted I up mine eyes Introduces a new vision (Zechariah 2:1; Zechariah 5:1; Zechariah 6:1). If all the visions came in one night they must have followed one another in rapid succession.

Four horns It is useless to speculate as to whether these horns belonged to one, two, or four animals, for that does not affect the symbolism. Horn is a symbol of power (Amos 6:13; Micah 4:13; Jeremiah 48:25); four indicates the four points of the compass; the four horns represent powers approaching from the four points of the compass. This does not mean, however, that the enemies actually approached or were expected to approach from four directions; the expression is used in the more general sense of every direction or all directions. From all sides enemies crowded upon the Jews during the postexilic period; all these are to be overthrown. Some have supposed that Zechariah has in mind four definite powers, either the Babylonians, Medes and Persians, Greeks, Romans, or the Assyrians, Egyptians, Babylonians, Medes and Persians. In view of Zechariah 1:19; Zechariah 1:21, which indicate that the enemies are enemies of the past, the Greeks and Romans cannot be meant. The first interpretation, which leaves the enemies unidentified, is to be preferred. 19. The prophet turns for an explanation to the interpreting angel, who replies that the four horns represent the powers that have been hostile toward the Jews.

Judah The southern kingdom.

Israel The northern kingdom.

Jerusalem Mentioned on account of its special sanctity as the earthly dwelling place of Jehovah. In the corresponding passage in Zechariah 1:21 only Judah is mentioned, which has led many to suppose that in this verse the other names are a later addition.

In Zechariah 1:20 a new feature is introduced.

Carpenters R.V., “smiths”; A.V. follows LXX.; literally, workmen, artificers. The term is used of workers in wood as well as in iron or stone. If the horns are thought of as made of iron (Micah 4:13) smith is the more suitable translation. The smiths may have had their hammers in their hands, ready to strike. 21.

He The interpreting angel, whose duty it was to explain the symbolism to the prophet. According to his interpretation the four smiths represent the agents who are divinely appointed to execute judgment upon the nations.

No man did lift up his head The people were completely overwhelmed.

Fray R.V., “terrify.” Throw in a state of alarm (2 Samuel 17:2).

Cast out [“down”] the horns A picture of utter destruction (compare Amos 3:14). Who the powers are that Jehovah will use to execute his judgment Upon the hostile nations is not stated. It is enough to assure the despondent community that the judgment will be executed.