Zechariah 11:2

“Howl, fir tree; for the cedar is fallen, etc.] By which are designed the princes, nobles, and magistrates of the land: so the Targum interprets them of kings and princes; (see Na 2:3 <263103>Ezekiel 31:3): because all the mighty are spoiled; which is an explanation of the figurative expressions in the former clause, and in the following; and designs rich men, as the Targum paraphrases it, who at this time would be spoiled of their wealth and substance. Howl, O ye oaks of Bashan; which the Targum interprets of governors of provinces; and men of power and authority are doubtless intended; (see <230213> Isaiah 2:13 <300209>Amos 2:9): for the forest of the vintage is come down; or rather, “the…”

“fir tree . . . cedar--if even the cedars (the highest in the state) are not spared, how much less the fir trees (the lowest)! forest of . . . vintage--As the vines are stripped of their grapes in the vintage (compare Joe 3:13), so the forest of Lebanon "is come down," stripped of all its beauty. Rather, "the fortified" or "inaccessible forest" [MAURER]; that is, Jerusalem dense with houses as a thick forest is with trees, and "fortified" with a wall around. Compare Mic 3:12, where its desolate state is described as a forest.”

“Howl, O cypress, for the cedar is fallen - Jerusalem or the temple having been likened to Lebanon and its cedars, the prophet carries on the image, speaking of the priests princes and people, under the title of firs, cypresses and oaks, trees inferior, but magnificent. He shows that it is imagery, by ascribing to them the feelings of people. The more glorious and stately, “the cedars,” were destroyed. Woe then to the rest, “the cypress;” as our Lord says, “If they do these things in the green tree, what shall be done, in the dry?” Luke 23:31, and Peter, “If the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?” 1 Peter 4:18. For the defensed forest is come down -…”

“Fir - tree - Houses and towns built with firs. The cedar - Much less shall ye escape. Ye Oaks - Used in that country for building palaces, cities, towns, and fortresses. The forest - Jerusalem, compared to a forest, in regard of the many and tall houses in it. In short, all are called to cry, for the miseries that will come upon all. Come down - Is laid desolate. Zechariah 11:3”

“11:2 Like Lebanon, Bashan had superb stands of timber. Lebanon and Bashan are often paired (Isa 2:13; Jer 22:20-22; Ezek 27:5-6) in representing nations that God would judge when he would regather and restore the people of Israel (see Zech 10:11).”

“Howl: Isa 2:12-17, Isa 10:33, Isa 10:34; Eze 31:2, Eze 31:3, Eze 31:17; Amo 6:1; Nah 3:8-19; Luk 23:31 mighty: or, gallants for: Isa 32:15-19; Eze 20:46 forest of the vintage: or, defenced forest Zechariah 11:3”