Zephaniah: Summary & Overview

Overview

Zephaniah prophesied during Josiah's reign, warning of the coming 'Day of the Lord' — a day of universal judgment. His language is intense and urgent. Yet the book ends with one of the most tender images in Scripture: God rejoicing over His people with singing. From judgment to joy, Zephaniah shows the full range of God's character.

Key Themes

  • The Day of the Lord
  • Universal judgment
  • The call to seek God
  • God rejoices over His people
  • A purified remnant

Famous Verses

The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.

Zephaniah 3:17

Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth; seek righteousness, seek meekness.

Zephaniah 2:3

For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the Lord, to serve him with one consent.

Zephaniah 3:9

The great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly.

Zephaniah 1:14

At that time will I bring you again, even in the time that I gather you.

Zephaniah 3:20

Key Facts

Testament
Old Testament
Genre
Minor Prophet
Author
Zephaniah
Date Written
~640–609 BC
Chapters
3

Related Books

Read Zephaniah in Context

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