Zechariah 5:11

"To build a house for it in the land of Shinar," he told me. "And when it is ready, the basket will be set there on its pedestal."

Study Bible

To build a house for it
This phrase suggests a deliberate and intentional action. In the Hebrew context, the word "house" (בַּיִת, bayit) often signifies more than just a physical structure; it can represent a dwelling place, a temple, or even a dynasty. The act of building a house implies preparation and permanence. Historically, the Israelites understood the significance of a house as a place of worship or a center of community life. In this vision, the "house" being built for the ephah (a symbol of wickedness) indicates a place where sin is given a foothold, a stark warning against allowing sin to take root in one's life or community.

in the land of Shinar
Shinar is a region that is historically associated with Babylon. In the biblical narrative, Babylon often symbolizes rebellion against God and human pride. The mention of Shinar here is significant because it connects the vision to the broader biblical theme of exile and judgment. The Israelites would have recognized Shinar as a place of captivity and idolatry, reminding them of the consequences of turning away from God. This serves as a cautionary tale, urging believers to remain faithful and avoid the allure of worldly temptations that lead to spiritual exile.

When it is ready
The phrase indicates a future completion, suggesting that there is a process or a period of preparation involved. The readiness implies that there is a divine timetable at work, and God's plans will unfold in His perfect timing. This can be an encouragement to believers, reminding them that God's purposes, though sometimes mysterious, are always moving towards fulfillment. It also serves as a reminder to be vigilant and prepared, as the completion of God's plans can come unexpectedly.

the basket will be set there on its pedestal
The image of the basket being set on a pedestal conveys the idea of elevation and prominence. In the context of the vision, this suggests that wickedness, represented by the basket, is being given a place of honor or authority, albeit temporarily. The pedestal (מְכוֹנָה, mekhonah) can symbolize a foundation or a stand, indicating that what is being established is meant to be seen and acknowledged. This serves as a sobering reminder of the reality of sin in the world and the importance of standing firm in faith, resisting the temptation to elevate or glorify what is contrary to God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet of the post-exilic period who received visions from God to encourage the Israelites in rebuilding the temple and to convey messages of future hope and judgment.

2. The Angel
A divine messenger who interprets the visions for Zechariah, providing clarity and understanding of God's revelations.

3. The Woman in the Basket
Represents wickedness, as seen earlier in Zechariah 5:8, symbolizing sin being contained and removed from the land.

4. The Land of Shinar
An ancient region, often associated with Babylon, symbolizing a place of exile and judgment, where wickedness is to be confined.

5. The Basket (Ephah)
A measuring container, symbolizing the containment and measurement of wickedness, which is to be transported to Shinar.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Sin
God has the authority to contain and judge wickedness. The vision of the basket being taken to Shinar illustrates God's control over sin and its ultimate removal from His people.

Symbolism of Shinar
Shinar represents a place of judgment and exile. Understanding its historical and biblical context helps us see how God deals with sin by removing it from His presence.

Hope in God's Justice
While the vision depicts judgment, it also offers hope that God will ultimately deal with wickedness, ensuring that righteousness prevails.

The Role of Prophetic Visions
Zechariah's visions serve to encourage believers in their faith, reminding them of God's plans for justice and restoration.

Personal Reflection on Sin
Just as wickedness is removed to Shinar, believers are called to examine their own lives, seeking to remove sin and live in righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the symbolism of the basket and the land of Shinar in Zechariah 5:11 help us understand God's approach to dealing with sin?

2. In what ways does the historical context of Shinar (Babylon) enhance our understanding of this vision's message?

3. How can the removal of wickedness to Shinar encourage us in our personal walk with God, especially when facing sin and temptation?

4. What parallels can we draw between the vision in Zechariah 5:11 and the depiction of Babylon in Revelation 18 regarding God's ultimate judgment?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Zechariah's vision to our lives today, particularly in terms of seeking God's justice and righteousness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 11
The land of Shinar is where the Tower of Babel was built, representing human pride and rebellion against God. This connection highlights the theme of judgment and the containment of sin.

Revelation 18
Babylon is depicted as a symbol of ultimate wickedness and its eventual downfall, paralleling the removal of wickedness to Shinar in Zechariah.

Jeremiah 29
The Israelites' exile in Babylon (Shinar) serves as a backdrop for understanding the significance of wickedness being sent there, emphasizing God's control over judgment and restoration.