9-13. All adversities formerly attended them when neglecting to build
the temple: but now God promises all blessings, as an encouragement to
energy in the work.
hands . . . strong--be of courageous mind
(2Sa 16:21),
not merely in building, but in general, as having such bright prospects
(Zec 8:13,
&c.).
these days--the time that had elapsed between the prophet's having
spoken "these words" and the time
(Zec 8:10;
compare
Hag 2:15-19)
when they set about in earnest restoring the temple.
the prophets--Haggai and Zechariah himself
(Ezr 5:1, 2).
The same prophets who promised prosperity at the foundation of the
temple, now promised still greater blessings hereafter.
JFB.
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