Zechariah 9:14-17

An independent section belonging to the same period as Zechariah 9:11, of which it may be a later expansion. The imagery of Zechariah 9:14 is derived from older prophecy, e.g. Amos 1:14; Amos 2:2. By the whirlwinds of the south perhaps merely violent storms are intended, but there may be a reference to the Maccabean campaign against Edom which is probably referred to in Isaiah 63:1 *. Indeed this passage in its savagery strongly resembles that magnificent but terrible description. For devour read prevail (LXX) and for they shall drink. wine read they shall drink their blood like wine (LXX). The sacrificial blood was dashed against the corners of the altar. The phrase sling stones is obscure and probably corrupt; we should expect some description of the Jews-' enemies.