Book of Zechariah - Chapter 8 - Verse 10

The verse "For before these days there was no hire for man, nor any hire for beast; neither was there any peace to him that went out or came in because of the affliction: for I set all men every one against his neighbour." speaks to a period of turmoil and lack in both human and animal society. In this time, there was no reward or payment for the labor of man or beast, leading to a sense of chaos and unrest. The lack of peace affected all aspects of daily life, making it difficult for individuals to come and go without facing affliction. The mention of setting all men against their neighbors implies a breakdown of social order and community cohesion, where individuals turned against each other in a state of disarray and conflict. This verse serves as a reflection on a historical period marked by hardship and discord, highlighting the importance of peace, cooperation, and fair compensation in society.

In this verse, the speaker laments the lack of peace and prosperity that existed in the past, highlighting the strife and hardship faced by both man and beast. The phrase "neither was there any peace to him that went out or came in because of the affliction" suggests that no one was able to find solace or respite from the challenges and struggles of everyday life. The use of the word "affliction" here underscores the intensity of the suffering experienced by the people during this period. The speaker then attributes this state of unrest and discord to the fact that "all men [were set] every one against his neighbour", indicating a breakdown of unity and mutual support among individuals. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of living in a society marred by conflict and division, emphasizing the importance of seeking peace and harmony with one another.