Zephaniah 2:1-11 — "The Cycle of Obedience, Disobedience, & Judgment"

Zephaniah prophesies destruction for Jerusalem, Judah, and nations including Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Ekron, Moab, and Ammon. The text echoes Daniel and Ezra's calls for national prayer and confession due to shame and guilt for national sins. It outlines a recurring cycle: obedience leads to blessing and prosperity, which can lead to passivity and disobedience, ultimately resulting in judgment and a need for repentance. However, the passage warns that opportunities to turn back to God can be lost

The passages stress humility, defined as seeing oneself as God does, as vital for avoiding destruction, while condemning pride. It also provides the origins of Moab and Ammon through Lot and his daughters, including Rabbinical interpretations.