The Book of Haggai
Haggai urges the returned exiles to stop neglecting the rebuilding of the Temple and put God first, promising his presence, blessing, and ultimately a glory greater than Solomon's.
- Testament
- Old (2 chapters)
- Type
- Minor Prophet
- Author
- Haggai the prophet.
- Date
- Specifically dated by the book itself: a four-month ministry in 520 BC.
First things first
The returned exiles had built comfortable homes while the Temple lay in ruins. Haggai's challenge: 'Is it time for you, O ye, to dwell in your cieled houses, and this house lie waste?' (1:4). The book is a sharp call to put the worship of God ahead of personal comfort.
Greater glory ahead
God promises 'the glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former' (2:9) — a promise Christians read as fulfilled in Christ's coming to the second Temple, and ultimately in the new creation.
Key verses (KJV)
“I am with you, saith the LORD.” — Haggai 1:13 (KJV)
“Consider your ways.” — Haggai 1:5 (KJV)
“The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former.” — Haggai 2:9 (KJV)
How to read Haggai
Two short chapters — read in one sitting. Pair with Ezra 5-6 for the historical context of Temple rebuilding.
Read Haggai on your iPhone
Read the full book of Haggai in Quiethaven — choose your translation, read offline, and pick up where you left off. Pair it with a daily verse and a prayer timer.
Read Haggai free on iPhone.
Download on the App Store