Zechariah 5:10

"Where are they taking the basket?" I asked the angel who was speaking with me.

Study Bible

Where are they taking the basket?
This question is posed by the prophet Zechariah during a vision. The "basket" refers to an ephah, a unit of measurement, which in this vision symbolizes iniquity or sin. The context of this vision is a series of symbolic acts that convey God's judgment and purification of Israel. The basket contains a woman representing wickedness, and the act of taking the basket away signifies the removal of sin from the land. This imagery aligns with the theme of cleansing and restoration found throughout the book of Zechariah. The question reflects Zechariah's curiosity and desire for understanding, a common trait among prophets who seek to comprehend God's messages.

I asked the angel who was speaking with me.
Zechariah's interaction with the angel highlights the role of angels as messengers and interpreters of divine visions. In biblical literature, angels often serve as intermediaries between God and humans, providing clarity and guidance. This particular angelic encounter underscores the importance of divine revelation and the need for interpretation of prophetic visions. The presence of the angel indicates that the vision is not merely a dream but a significant message from God. This interaction is reminiscent of other biblical figures, such as Daniel, who also received angelic explanations of visions. The angel's role is crucial in helping Zechariah understand the implications of the vision for the people of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet of the post-exilic period, Zechariah was instrumental in encouraging the Jewish people to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem after their return from Babylonian exile. His visions, including the one in Zechariah 5, are rich with symbolic imagery.

2. The Woman in the Basket
In Zechariah 5:10, the woman represents wickedness. She is contained within an ephah (a basket), symbolizing the containment and eventual removal of sin from the land.

3. The Two Women with Wings
These figures are described as having wings like a stork, and they carry the basket away. They symbolize agents of God's judgment and purification, tasked with removing wickedness.

4. Shinar
This is the destination to which the basket is being taken. Shinar is another name for Babylon, a place historically associated with rebellion against God and idolatry.

5. The Vision of the Flying Scroll
Preceding the vision of the woman in the basket, the flying scroll represents God's judgment against theft and falsehood, setting the context for the removal of wickedness.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Sin
The vision illustrates God's control over sin and His plan to remove it from His people. Believers can trust in God's ultimate victory over evil.

The Role of Judgment in Purification
Just as the woman is carried away, God's judgment serves to purify and cleanse His people. Christians are called to examine their lives and repent of sin.

Symbolism of Babylon
Babylon represents the world system opposed to God. Believers are reminded to live distinctively, avoiding the corrupting influences of the world.

The Importance of Holiness
The removal of wickedness underscores the call to holiness. Christians are encouraged to pursue righteousness and reflect God's character.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The vision assures that God will fulfill His promises to restore and purify His people, offering hope and encouragement to remain faithful.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the woman in the basket help us understand God's view of sin and wickedness?

2. In what ways does the removal of wickedness to Shinar (Babylon) parallel the call for Christians to separate from worldly influences?

3. How can the vision of the flying scroll and the woman in the basket encourage us to pursue personal holiness in our daily lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the role of the two women with wings in carrying out God's judgment and purification?

5. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Zechariah 5:10 provide comfort and assurance in the face of present-day challenges and temptations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 11
The Tower of Babel in Shinar represents humanity's pride and rebellion, connecting to the symbolism of wickedness being taken to Babylon.

Revelation 17-18
Babylon is depicted as a symbol of ultimate wickedness and opposition to God, echoing the themes in Zechariah.

Isaiah 13-14
These chapters prophesy the downfall of Babylon, reinforcing the idea of God's judgment against sin and rebellion.