What does "those days" mean in Zechariah 8:23?
In Zechariah 8:23, 'those days' refers to the future time when Israel has finally reached its priesthood, when many peoples and strong nations come to seek the Lord in Jerusalem, and Gentiles from all languages take hold of a Jew, saying they will go with them because God is with them.
Les explains that Zechariah 8:23 follows the promise that many peoples and inhabitants of many cities will go up to Jerusalem to pray before the Lord. He asks, 'in those days, what days?' and answers, 'When Israel has finally reached that priesthood.' In that future day, ten men from all languages—representing Gentiles—will take hold of the skirt of a Jew, saying, 'We will go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.' Les notes this was Israel's prospect, but they rejected it in unbelief. Later, Paul in Romans 11 confirms Israel did not obtain what they sought—the king and the kingdom—because they missed it when it came. So 'those days' points to the time of Israel's intended priestly role among the nations, which they forfeited through unbelief.
Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.
More Questions
Who are the 'ten men out of all languages' in Zechariah 8:23?
In Zechariah 8:23, the 'ten men out of all languages' represent Gentiles from all the nations.
What time period is meant by 'in those days' in Zechariah 8:23?
In Zechariah, the phrase 'in those days' points to the future prophetic days when the Gentiles will be able to come to the knowledge of God.