Zechariah 5:2

"What do you see?" asked the angel. "I see a flying scroll," I replied, "twenty cubits long and ten cubits wide."

Study Bible

What do you see?”
This phrase is a direct question from the angelic messenger to Zechariah, prompting him to engage with the vision actively. The Hebrew root for "see" is "רָאָה" (ra'ah), which implies not just physical sight but also spiritual insight and understanding. In the context of prophetic literature, this question invites the reader to consider not only the literal vision but also its deeper, spiritual implications. It challenges believers to look beyond the surface and seek divine wisdom in interpreting God's messages.

he asked
The act of asking signifies a dialogue between the divine and the human. In the Hebrew context, questions are often used to provoke thought and reflection. This interaction underscores the relational aspect of God's communication with His people, emphasizing that God desires a two-way relationship where He listens and responds to His followers.

I see a flying scroll,”
The "flying scroll" is a vivid image that captures attention. The Hebrew word for "scroll" is "מְגִלָּה" (megillah), which refers to a rolled-up document. Scrolls were common in ancient times for recording important texts, including legal and religious documents. The fact that it is "flying" suggests a supernatural element, indicating that this is a message from God that transcends earthly limitations. It symbolizes the swift and pervasive nature of God's word and judgment, moving through the land with divine authority.

twenty cubits long and ten cubits wide.”
The specific dimensions of the scroll, "twenty cubits long and ten cubits wide," are significant. A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to the length of a forearm, about 18 inches. These dimensions are the same as the porch of Solomon's Temple (1 Kings 6:3), suggesting a connection to the temple and God's law. The size of the scroll indicates the comprehensive nature of God's judgment and the seriousness of the message it contains. It serves as a reminder of the vastness of God's authority and the thoroughness of His justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet of the post-exilic period, Zechariah is the recipient of visions from God, including the vision of the flying scroll.

2. Angel
A divine messenger who communicates with Zechariah, guiding him through the visions and providing explanations.

3. Flying Scroll
A large scroll seen in Zechariah's vision, symbolizing God's judgment and the proclamation of His word.

4. Jerusalem
The city where Zechariah prophesied, significant as the center of Jewish life and worship during the post-exilic period.

5. Post-Exilic Period
The time after the return from Babylonian exile, marked by the rebuilding of the temple and the re-establishment of the Jewish community.

Teaching Points

The Authority of God's Word
The flying scroll represents the authoritative and active nature of God's word. It is not static but moves to accomplish God's purposes, reminding us of the power and reach of Scripture in our lives.

Judgment and Accountability
The dimensions of the scroll (twenty cubits by ten cubits) are significant, as they match the dimensions of the Holy Place in the tabernacle, symbolizing God's standard of holiness and the judgment that comes from failing to meet it. We are called to live in accordance with God's standards, knowing that His word holds us accountable.

Repentance and Restoration
The vision serves as a call to repentance for the people of Israel, urging them to turn from sin and return to God. In our lives, we must be vigilant in examining our hearts and aligning our actions with God's will.

The Universality of God's Message
The scroll's flight signifies the universal reach of God's message. It is not confined to one place or people but is meant for all. We are encouraged to share God's word broadly, knowing it has the power to transform lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the vision of the flying scroll in Zechariah 5:2 challenge our understanding of the authority and power of God's word in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are living according to God's standards, as symbolized by the dimensions of the scroll?

3. How does the concept of divine judgment, as seen in the flying scroll, influence our approach to repentance and seeking forgiveness?

4. What parallels can we draw between the flying scroll in Zechariah and the scrolls mentioned in other parts of the Bible, such as Ezekiel and Revelation?

5. How can we actively participate in spreading the message of God's word, inspired by the imagery of the flying scroll reaching far and wide?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 2:9-10
Similar to Zechariah's vision, Ezekiel sees a scroll, which represents God's message of lamentation and woe.

Revelation 5:1-2
The scroll in Revelation, sealed with seven seals, signifies divine revelation and judgment, paralleling the flying scroll's symbolism.

Jeremiah 36
Jeremiah's scroll, which is read to the people, underscores the power and authority of God's word, akin to the flying scroll's message.