The Book of Zephaniah Trivia Quiz

Answer: Hidden

In the Book of Zephaniah, the word "Zephaniah" is usually translated as "Yahweh has hidden" or "Yahweh hides". It doesn't seem to have referred to a specific historical person directly. It may have been a pseudonym for a person or a legendary figure. The Church Father Jerome suggested it referred to a "watchman".

Answer: Ninth

Among the twelve prophets, the Book of Zephaniah came ninth, after the Book of Habakkuk and before the Book of Haggai. The Book of Zephaniah is relatively brief with only three chapters and less than 60 verses. Some argue that the book was written during the later days of the Kingdom of Judah. Others place its composition either before or even after the Babylonian exile.

Answer: Ethiopia

In the beginning of the Book of Zephaniah there is a reference to "the son of Cushi". (1:1). Cushi is a reference to Ethiopia. The full quote refers to a descendent of King Hezekiah of Judah. This helps to give a possible setting for the book of the 7th century BCE.

Answer: Total

The phrase "totally destroy everything" (1:2) is used early on in the Book of Zephaniah. It is promised that man and beast will be destroyed as well as creatures that fly and swim. Finally there is a prophesied destruction of people in various locations.

Answer: Shofar

The Book of Zephaniah (1:16) refers to "a day of shofar and alarm". The shofar was a traditional musical instrument that was made from a ram's horn. In particular it is associated with the Jewish festivals of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. "Shofar" is mentioned several times in the Bible, as early as the Book of Exodus.

Answer: A and C

The verse of the Book of Zephaniah references "neither their silver nor their gold". Chapter 1 also references certain features - including houses and vineyards - that could indicate wealth. In any case, the wealth of these people proves no defense against the wrath of the Lord.

Answer: Gaza

The word abandoned is used with Gaza in the Book of Zephaniah. God, speaking through the text, promises destruction. The land is destined to be unpopulated and become pastures. Eventually, the land will be returned to control of the people of Judah.

Answer: Assyria

The passage in the Book of Zephaniah mentions destroying Assyria but leaving Nineveh (an Assyrian city) dry and desolate. Nineveh later makes an appearance in the Book of Jonah. The destruction of Assyria continues to include destruction of stone and wood and the desolation of animals.

Answer: Sodom

The passage from the Book of Zephaniah draws a connection between Sodom and Gomorrah AND Moab. It goes on to reference a salt mine as well as nettles, and desolation. The passage continues with references to being plundered by the people of Israel.

Answer: Pelican and Owl

In the Book of Zephaniah, the pelican and owl are said to "lodge in the lintels". With a general reference to "beasts", there is a general sense of "desolation". This general occupation by beasts seems to follow a feeling of desolation and destruction.