Resumo

SNYMAN, SD (Fanie). YHWH - King, Warrior (and Shepherd) in Zephaniah 3:14-20. Tydskr. geesteswet. [online]. 2023, vol.63, n.3, pp.708-722. ISSN 2224-7912.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2224-7912/2023/v63n3a16.

The problem addressed in this contribution is the question concerning the theological message of Zephaniah 3:14-20. Ultimately, the main reason for reading the Bible whether by lay people or professional theologians and pastors, is to determine a theological message of a passage, a chapter and even a book in the Bible. The methodological approach followed to answer this problem statement is to focus on the metaphors used to describe YHWH. Zephaniah is a book known for its use of metaphors in a productive and innovative way. To determine the theological intent of this passage via an investigation into the metaphors used in terms of YHWH seems to be an appropriate way to arrive at valid answers to the question posed. The passage of Zephaniah 3:14-20 can be divided into two parts, verses 14-17 and 18-20 respectively. Verses 14-17 make use of two metaphors, YHWH as king and YHWH as warrior. In verses 18-20 the metaphor used is that of YHWH as shepherd. The metaphors occur within a literary text and consequently attention has to be paid to the literary structure of the passage. In both parts of the passage (verses 14-17; 18-20) the literary device of chiasm is used. The historical situation of the passage is also investigated, and it has been established that the closing verses of the book of Zephaniah most probably represent an editorial addition sometime during the Babylonian exile. The metaphor ofking denotes the idea of YHWH as the One who is concerned about the rights of the powerless and to rescue them from oppressors. The metaphor of YHWH as warrior is related to the metaphor of king and conveys the idea of YHWH as a mighty saviour, present in the midst of his people to accomplish the salvation of his people. The third metaphor used is that of YHWH as shepherd. The metaphor of shepherd is also closely related to the metaphor ofking. Kings are often seen as shepherds to their people. YHWH as shepherd is the One who cares for his people, feed them and guard them against possible enemies. In this passage YHWH shepherding his people will ultimately lead to their restoration as a people. The restoration will consist of rescuing the lame and the gathering of those who have been exiled. It is promised to them that they will once again receive honour and praise among the other nations of the earth. The people are addressed as "daughter of Zion" and "daughter of Jerusalem" emphasising weakness and vulnerability, in contrast to the metaphors of king, warrior and shepherd suggesting the might of JHWH and his ability to rescue his people. Finally, some guidelines are provided to aid preachers to deliver a sermon based on this passage. It is suggested that YHWH is presented to the people as king, warrior, and shepherd. In response to this message people are called upon in four imperatives to sing, shout, rejoice and be hopeful even in spite of the dire situation of the exile. They are also encouraged not to fear and not to "let their hands hang limp" meaning that they should act in a brave way. Current times demand that believers keep focusing on JHWH as king, hero, and shepherd. Consequently, they will adhere to the call to sing and rejoice irrespective of the difficult times believers have to endure. When God is confessed as king there is also no need to fear earthly rulers. Finally, in a time where there is a danger of losing courage and will power, believers are urged to live courageously despite the circumstances because JHWH is in their midst and He assures them of his love.

Palavras-chave : metaphor; literary structure; chiasm; king; warrior; shepherd; beliefs about God; prophecy of salvation; theological interpretation; preaching.

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