The Prophet Zephaniah (Sophonias) was a contemporary of the Prophet Jeremiah and the Prophetess Oldama. He was from the tribe of Simeon and was the ninth of the Twelve Minor Prophets of the Old Testament. Zephaniah preached repentance and assisted King Josiah in eliminating idol-worship while residing at the royal court.
His prophecies foretold of the calamities that would befall the people of Judea and neighboring regions such as Gaza, Ascalon, Crete, the Moabites, the Ammonites, and the Ninevites.
Zephaniah, the ninth among the minor Prophets, was the son of Chusi (Cushi) from the tribe of Levi or possibly the great-grandson of King Hezekias. He prophesied during the reign of Josias, around 641-610 BC. His book of prophecy consists of three chapters, and his name signifies “Yah is darkness.”
Born in Mount Sarabatha from the tribe of Simeon, Zephaniah lived and prophesied during the seventh century BC alongside King Josiah. He shared his era with the Prophet Jeremiah and possessed humility and a pure devotion to God, granting him the ability to foresee the future. Zephaniah prophesied the wrath of God and the punishment of various cities and nations, including Jerusalem and Egypt.
Looking ahead to the arrival of the Messiah, Zephaniah joyfully proclaimed, “Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jerusalem.” (Zephaniah 3:14) He passed away at his birthplace, anticipating the General Resurrection and his divine reward.
Source: vema.com.au