NOTES for Zec 9:1-17

In the fact that the Lord's eye is turned towards all people, as towards all the tribes of Israel, we may discern the meaning that all nations, however far they may stray from God, are as dear to Him as the people He chose to keep faith with Him. The denunciation of the pagan neighbours begins on this note, and although the prophecy goes on to develop the theme of the pagans' wickedness and its consequences, we can already set the stern words addressed to them alongside the equally stern denunciations of Jews who have fallen into sin, so familiar to readers of the Bible. And when, after these denunciations, the prophet turns to the account of the coming arrival in Jerusalem of the King seated on a young donkey, we are already prepared for this King to bring salvation to all nations.

The coming triumph of God's people is portrayed in images of military victory. We know that the Lord has more than once saved His people from their enemies, so a literal understanding of Zechariah's words as a prophecy of a forthcoming victory is also possible. But if we relate these words to the preceding words, fulfilled when Christ entered Jerusalem, it is no stretch to apply the prophecy to the final triumph of God's righteousness at the end of time.

And perhaps it is no stretch to discern a distant glimpse of the Eucharist in the words about bread and wine that give life to the tongues of young men and women...