Zechariah 5:9

Then I lifted up my eyes and saw two women approaching, with the wind in their wings. Their wings were like those of a stork, and they lifted up the basket between heaven and earth.

Study Bible

Then I lifted up my eyes
This phrase indicates a moment of divine revelation. In the Hebrew context, lifting one's eyes often signifies a readiness to receive a vision or message from God. It suggests an openness to divine instruction, a theme prevalent throughout the prophetic books. The act of looking up is symbolic of seeking understanding and insight from above, emphasizing the importance of spiritual awareness and attentiveness to God's revelations.

and saw two women approaching
The appearance of two women in this vision is unique and significant. In the ancient Near Eastern context, women were not typically depicted as bearers of divine messages, making this vision particularly striking. The number two often symbolizes confirmation and witness in biblical literature, suggesting that these women are bringing a message or truth that is established and certain. Their approach signifies the active movement of God's plans and purposes being carried out.

with the wind in their wings
The wind is frequently associated with the Spirit of God in Scripture, symbolizing divine power and presence. The Hebrew word for wind, "ruach," can also mean spirit or breath, indicating that these women are propelled by a force beyond themselves. This imagery suggests that their mission is divinely ordained and empowered, highlighting the unstoppable nature of God's will.

They had wings like those of a stork
Storks are known for their strength and endurance in flight, often migrating over long distances. In the biblical context, the stork is considered a clean bird, symbolizing purity and faithfulness. The comparison to stork wings implies that these women are on a mission that is both pure and enduring, reflecting the steadfastness and reliability of God's purposes.

and they lifted up the basket
The act of lifting the basket signifies the removal or elevation of something significant. In the broader context of Zechariah 5, the basket represents iniquity or wickedness. The lifting of the basket suggests a divine intervention to address and remove sin, pointing to God's justice and the eventual purification of His people.

between heaven and earth
This phrase indicates a position of transition and mediation. The space between heaven and earth is often seen as a realm where divine and human interactions occur. It underscores the idea that the actions taking place are part of a larger divine plan that bridges the earthly and the heavenly. This imagery reinforces the theme of God's sovereignty and His active involvement in the affairs of the world, orchestrating events according to His divine will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
The prophet who receives the vision. He is a post-exilic prophet, encouraging the Israelites during the rebuilding of the temple.

2. Two Women
Mysterious figures in the vision, described as having wings like a stork. They are tasked with carrying the basket.

3. The Basket
Represents iniquity or wickedness, as seen in the broader context of Zechariah 5.

4. Heaven and Earth
The space between heaven and earth signifies a realm of transition or judgment.

5. Stork
A bird known for its large wingspan, symbolizing strength and swiftness in carrying out God's purposes.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Sin
The vision illustrates God's control over sin and its ultimate removal from His people.

Symbolism of the Stork
The stork, an unclean bird in Levitical law, signifies that God can use any means to accomplish His purposes.

Judgment and Redemption
The removal of wickedness is a precursor to redemption and restoration for God's people.

Spiritual Vigilance
Believers are called to be vigilant against sin in their lives, recognizing that God will ultimately deal with all iniquity.

Hope in God's Justice
The vision assures believers of God's justice and the eventual triumph over evil.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the two women with stork-like wings challenge or reinforce your understanding of how God deals with sin?

2. In what ways does the removal of the basket between heaven and earth reflect God's plan for dealing with wickedness in the world today?

3. How can the symbolism of the stork inform our understanding of God's use of unexpected means to fulfill His purposes?

4. What parallels can you draw between this vision in Zechariah and the parables of Jesus regarding the separation of the righteous and the wicked?

5. How does this passage encourage you to live a life of holiness and vigilance against sin in your own life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 6:5
The wickedness of humanity before the flood, highlighting the persistent problem of sin.

Revelation 18:2
The fall of Babylon, symbolizing the ultimate judgment on wickedness.

Isaiah 11:12
The gathering of God's people, contrasting the scattering of wickedness.

Matthew 13:41-42
The parable of the weeds, where angels separate the wicked from the righteous.