And many peoples and strong nationsThis phrase indicates a future time when diverse groups from various ethnicities and powerful nations will be drawn to God. Historically, Israel was often surrounded by hostile nations, yet this prophecy envisions a reversal where these nations seek God. This aligns with the Abrahamic promise in
Genesis 12:3, where all families of the earth would be blessed through Abraham. It also echoes
Isaiah 2:2-3, which speaks of nations streaming to the mountain of the Lord.
will come to seek the LORD of Hosts
The term "LORD of Hosts" emphasizes God's sovereignty and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. Seeking the Lord implies a genuine desire to know and worship Him, contrasting with the idolatry prevalent among the nations. This reflects a future messianic age when the knowledge of God will be widespread, as seen inJeremiah 31:34. It also foreshadows the Great Commission inMatthew 28:19, where the gospel is to be preached to all nations.
in Jerusalem
Jerusalem holds significant theological and historical importance as the city of David and the location of the Temple, symbolizing God's presence among His people. This prophecy envisions Jerusalem as a spiritual center for the world, fulfilling its role as a light to the nations (Isaiah 60:3). Archaeologically, Jerusalem's centrality in ancient Israelite worship underscores its future role in eschatological events.
and to plead before the LORD.”
Pleading before the Lord suggests a posture of humility and repentance, seeking God's favor and guidance. This act of supplication indicates a recognition of God's authority and a desire for reconciliation. It parallels the prophetic vision inZechariah 14:16, where all nations will come to worship the King, the LORD of Hosts, during the Feast of Tabernacles, symbolizing unity and peace under God's reign.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
ZechariahA prophet who ministered to the Jewish people after their return from Babylonian exile. His prophecies encouraged the rebuilding of the temple and offered visions of future hope.
2.
JerusalemThe central city of worship for the Jewish people, symbolizing God's presence and the focal point of His promises to Israel.
3.
The LORD of HostsA title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies, underscoring His power and authority.
4.
Many Peoples and Strong NationsRepresents the Gentile nations who will recognize the sovereignty of God and seek Him, indicating a future time of global acknowledgment of the LORD.
5.
Pleading Before the LORDThis phrase suggests a sincere seeking of God's favor and guidance, indicating a heart posture of humility and dependence on God.
Teaching Points
God's Universal CallGod's plan includes all nations, not just Israel. This passage encourages believers to embrace a global vision for God's kingdom, recognizing that His salvation is for all peoples.
The Centrality of WorshipJerusalem symbolizes the place of God's presence. Believers are called to prioritize worship and seek God's presence in their lives, making Him the center of their existence.
The Power of God's SovereigntyThe title "LORD of Hosts" reminds us of God's ultimate authority. Trusting in His power should lead us to live confidently, knowing He is in control of all nations and events.
The Importance of HumilityPleading before the LORD indicates a humble approach to God. Believers are encouraged to maintain a posture of humility, seeking God's guidance and favor in all aspects of life.
Hope for the FutureThis prophecy points to a future time of peace and unity under God's reign. Christians can find hope in God's promises, looking forward to the fulfillment of His kingdom on earth.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Zechariah 8:22?
2.How can we encourage others to "seek the LORD of Hosts" today?
3.What does Zechariah 8:22 teach about the importance of community in faith?
4.How does Zechariah 8:22 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19?
5.In what ways can we "entreat the favor of the LORD" in our lives?
6.How can Zechariah 8:22 inspire us to participate in global evangelism efforts?
7.What does Zechariah 8:22 reveal about God's plan for the nations?
8.How does Zechariah 8:22 emphasize the importance of seeking God?
9.Why do many peoples and nations desire to seek the Lord in Zechariah 8:22?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Zechariah 8?
11.Zechariah 8:22–23: How do we reconcile the prophecy that many nations will seek God in Jerusalem with the reality of religious division today?
12.What are Zechariah's prophecies about Jerusalem's future?
13.Are there any historical or archaeological records supporting Isaiah 56’s inclusive vision of foreigners worshiping in the Temple?
14.Psalm 87:4 – How can Rahab (often associated with Egypt) and Babylon both be said to belong to Zion if they were historically distinct cultures?What Does Zechariah 8:22 Mean
And many peoples- God’s long-standing promise to bless all the families of the earth comes into view (Genesis 12:3;Psalm 22:27;Revelation 7:9).
- “Many” underscores breadth: countless ethnicities, languages, and cultures respond to the Lord’s invitation (Isaiah 55:5).
- The verse affirms that salvation history never stalls at Israel’s borders; it funnels outward so the world may taste covenant grace (Isaiah 49:6;Zechariah 2:11).
and strong nations- Not only individuals but entire political powers acknowledge God’s supremacy (Psalm 47:3;Isaiah 60:3).
- Strength here hints at influence—kingdoms once self-reliant now bend the knee (Zephaniah 2:11;Micah 4:3).
- The picture balances humility with hope: no nation is too mighty to be conquered by mercy, nor too distant to be drawn in (Psalm 86:9).
will come to seek the LORD of Hosts in Jerusalem- “Come” signals active movement—pilgrimage toward the place God chose for His Name (1 Kings 8:41-43).
- Jerusalem remains the prophetic focal point where the Lord’s presence is manifest and His promises converge (Isaiah 2:2-3;Zechariah 14:16).
- Seeking is wholehearted pursuit, not casual curiosity (Jeremiah 29:13). It highlights relationship over ritual, intimacy over mere geography (John 12:20-21;Acts 2:5-11).
and to plead before the LORD- “Plead” conveys humble petition—coming as supplicants, not tourists (2 Chronicles 6:32-33;Psalm 86:6-7).
- The welcome is open: mercy is extended to those who ask (Isaiah 55:6-7).
- This anticipates the gospel reality where, through Christ, people “approach the throne of grace with confidence” (Hebrews 4:16).
summaryZechariah 8:22 paints a future in which multitudes from every corner of the globe—even the loftiest nations—leave self-reliance behind, travel to the city God chose, and earnestly seek His favor. The verse showcases the worldwide reach of God’s covenant, the irresistibility of His glory, and the promised day when all peoples gather to honor, worship, and petition the LORD of Hosts.
Verse 22. -
Many people (
peoples)
and strong nations. This explains ver. 20 more fully. The Jews were not actuated by the missionary spirit, yet even before Christ's advent their religion had spread into all parts of the world, as we see from the catalogue of proselytes in
Acts 2:9-11. Intimations of the same fact are given in
Ezra 6:21;
Esther 8:17.
To seek the Lord of hosts in Jerusalem;i.e. to keep the solemn festivals observed there (comp.
Isaiah 2:2;
Isaiah 66:20-23Micah 4:1, and note there). The literal fulfilment of this prophecy is not to be looked for. It declares the future conversion of the Gentiles, and their being made one with Israel in the Church of Christ, "one fold under one Shepherd" (
John 10:16).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
And manyרַבִּים֙(rab·bîm)Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 7227:Much, many, greatpeoplesעַמִּ֤ים(‘am·mîm)Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 5971:A people, a tribe, troops, attendants, a flockand strongעֲצוּמִ֔ים(‘ă·ṣū·mîm)Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 6099:Powerful, numerousnationsוְגוֹיִ֣ם(wə·ḡō·w·yim)Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 1471:A foreign nation, a Gentile, a troop of animals, a flight of locustswill comeוּבָ֨אוּ(ū·ḇā·’ū)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person common plural
Strong's 935:To come in, come, go in, goto seekלְבַקֵּ֛שׁ(lə·ḇaq·qêš)Preposition-l | Verb - Piel - Infinitive construct
Strong's 1245:To search out, to strive afterthe LORDיְהוָ֥ה(Yah·weh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068:LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israelof Hostsצְבָא֖וֹת(ṣə·ḇā·’ō·wṯ)Noun - common plural
Strong's 6635:A mass of persons, reg, organized for, war, a campaignin Jerusalemבִּירוּשָׁלִָ֑ם(bî·rū·šā·lim)Preposition-b | Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 3389:Jerusalem -- probably 'foundation of peace', capital city of all Israeland to pleadוּלְחַלּ֖וֹת(ū·lə·ḥal·lō·wṯ)Conjunctive waw, Preposition-l | Verb - Piel - Infinitive construct
Strong's 2470:To be weak or sickbeforeפְּנֵ֥י(pə·nê)Noun - common plural construct
Strong's 6440:The facethe LORD.”יְהוָֽה׃(Yah·weh)Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068:LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel
Links
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OT Prophets: Zechariah 8:22 Yes many peoples and strong nations will (Zech. Zec Zc) 
