Word patterns in Zechariah 1

Zechariah 1:1-6, the introduction to the prophecy, uses a number of words or phrases a significant number of times.

“Yahweh” is used eight times.  Eight is the number of rebirth, a new week, resurrection on the day after the Sabbath.  Plus, Zechriah begins to prophecy in the eighth month.

Of those eight uses, five are in the phrase “Yahweh of hosts,” or “Yahweh of Armies.”  Five is associated with military formation, and so the fievold use of the militant name of Yahweh is fitting.  He’s getting ready to fight on behalf of Israel.

“Return” is used four times.  Though Israel has returned from their scattering to the four corners of the earth, Yahweh is not satisfied with that return.  He wants them to “return” to Him rather than fall away as their fathers did (v. 4).  Interestingly, Israel’s return is both prior to and a prerequisite of Yahweh’s return to Israel (v. 3).  ISrael is the pursuing bride, whose Lord and Lover will respond to her love.