Zephaniah

Abstract This essay discusses the key topics for the study of the book of Zephaniah, including structure, authorship, date, central themes, Zephaniah’s relationship with the Book of the Twelve, and the Hebrew Bible. The themes explored include the Day of Yahweh, illicit cult practice, the contrast between corrupt elite classes and a humble remnant, the city, redemption, and restoration. Many of these themes are found in the other Minor Prophets, but they find unique expression in Zephaniah, carefully crafted to convey the prophet’s message. The essay ends with a reflection on how to read Zephaniah—how to make sense of the individuality of the book among the plurality of intertextual connections found within it.