1On the twenty-first day of the seventh month,2:1 Lv 23:33–43; 2Ch 7:8–10 the word of the Lord came through the prophet Haggai:

2“Speak to Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, to the high priest Joshua son of Jehozadak, and to the remnant of the people:

3‘Who is left among you who saw this house in its former glory? How does it look to you now? Doesn’t it seem to you like nothing by comparison?2:3 1Kg 5:13–16; 6:38; 1Ch 29:1–8; Ezr 3:10–13; Zch 4:10

4Even so, be strong, Zerubbabel — this is the Lord’s declaration.2:4 Jos 1:6–9; 1Ch 28:10,20 Be strong, Joshua son of Jehozadak, high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land — this is the Lord’s declaration. Work! For I am with you2:4 Hg 1:13; Zch 8:9 — the declaration of the Lord of Armies.

5This is the promise I made to you when you came out of Egypt,2:5 Ex 33:14–17 and my Spirit is present among you; don’t be afraid.’”

10On the twenty-fourth day of the ninth month, in the second year of Darius, the word of the Lord came to the prophet Haggai:

11“This is what the Lord of Armies says: Ask the priests for a ruling.2:11 Mal 2:7

12If a man is carrying consecrated meat in the fold of his garment, and it touches bread, stew, wine, oil, or any other food, does it become holy?” 2:12 Jr 11:15

20The word of the Lord came to Haggai a second time on the twenty-fourth day of the month:

21“Speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah: I am going to shake the heavens and the earth.2:21 Hg 2:6–7; Ezk 38:19–20

22I will overturn royal thrones and destroy the power of the Gentile kingdoms.2:22 Gn 19:25; Am 4:11 I will overturn chariots and their riders. Horses and their riders will fall, each by his brother’s sword.

23On that day” — this is the declaration of the Lord of Armies — “I will take you, Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, my servant” — this is the Lord’s declaration — “and make you like my signet ring,2:23 Est 8:8; Jr 22:23–25 for I have chosen you.”2:23 Mt 1:12–13 This is the declaration of the Lord of Armies.