I will overthrow the throne of kingdoms. I will destroy the strength of the kingdoms of the nations. I will overthrow the chariots and those who ride in them. The horses and their riders will come down, everyone by the sword of his brother.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 22. Earth. Some great event is denoted. Nothing occurs in history after the second year of Darius, to shew that Zorobabel signalized himself. Theodoret thinks that the irruption of the Scythians, or of Gog, is meant. Others believe ( Calmet.) that the prophecy relates to Christ, at his first (Saint Cyril) or second coming. Saint Jerome—But the Hebrew speaks of something past, and we doubt not but the attempt of Cambyses, three years before, is the subject. Ezekiel 38. “I have overcome the throne of kings,” Cambyses, and the magi, and have given the kingdom to another family. The enemy has destroyed himself. Then I kept thee as a seal, with the greatest care. Jeremiah 22:24. Thou art no longer oppressed by the Persian king of his governor. Hystaspes has declared in thy favour. Nothing could more enhance the authority of Zorobabel than an action so recent, which God seemed to have permitted on his account, and for his glory. Calmet.—While all other kingdoms perish, the Church of Christ remains. Worthington.