Zechariah 6:11

Take silver and gold, make an ornate crown, and set it on the head of the high priest, Joshua son of Jehozadak.

Study Bible

Take silver and gold
The instruction to "take silver and gold" signifies the preciousness and value of what is to be created. In the Hebrew context, silver and gold were not only valuable metals but also symbolic of purity and divinity. Silver often represents redemption and refinement, as seen in passages like Malachi 3:3, where God refines His people like silver. Gold, on the other hand, is frequently associated with kingship and divine glory, as seen in the construction of the Temple and the articles within it (1 Kings 6:20-22). The use of these metals underscores the importance and sacredness of the task at hand.

make a crown
The act to "make a crown" is significant in its symbolism of authority and honor. In ancient Israel, a crown was a symbol of kingship and divine appointment. The Hebrew word for crown, "עֲטֶרֶת" (atara), can also mean a wreath or a diadem, indicating a mark of distinction. This crown is not merely ornamental but represents the conferring of authority and the acknowledgment of God's chosen leadership. The making of a crown from silver and gold suggests a merging of priestly and kingly roles, pointing to the Messianic prophecy of a future leader who embodies both offices.

set it on the head
The phrase "set it on the head" indicates the act of coronation, a public declaration of authority and leadership. In biblical times, the head was considered the seat of wisdom and authority, and placing a crown upon it was a powerful symbol of empowerment and divine sanction. This act signifies the bestowal of honor and responsibility, marking the individual as chosen by God for a specific purpose.

of the high priest
The mention of "the high priest" highlights the unique role of the high priest in Israel's religious life. The high priest served as the mediator between God and the people, offering sacrifices and interceding on their behalf. In this context, the high priest is not only a religious leader but also a symbol of spiritual authority and purity. The high priest's involvement in this prophetic act points to the integration of spiritual and temporal leadership, foreshadowing the coming of a priest-king in the line of Melchizedek, as referenced in Psalm 110:4 and Hebrews 7.

Joshua son of Jehozadak
"Joshua son of Jehozadak" is a significant figure in the post-exilic community of Israel. As the high priest during the rebuilding of the Temple, Joshua represents the restoration of proper worship and the reestablishment of the covenant relationship with God. His name, "Joshua" (יְהוֹשֻׁעַ, Yehoshua), means "The LORD is salvation," which is the same name as Jesus in Hebrew, pointing to the ultimate salvation brought by Christ. The mention of his lineage, "son of Jehozadak," roots him in the priestly line, emphasizing the continuity of God's promises and the faithfulness of His covenant through generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet who received visions and messages from God to encourage the Israelites during the rebuilding of the temple after the Babylonian exile.

2. Joshua son of Jehozadak
The high priest at the time of Zechariah, representing the spiritual leadership of Israel. His crowning symbolizes the unification of priestly and kingly roles.

3. The Temple
The central place of worship for the Israelites, being rebuilt during Zechariah's time, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

4. Silver and Gold
Precious metals used to create the ornate crown, symbolizing purity, value, and divine authority.

5. The Crown
Represents authority and honor, traditionally associated with kingship, but here placed on a high priest, foreshadowing the coming Messiah who would be both priest and king.

Teaching Points

The Dual Role of Christ
Zechariah's vision foreshadows Jesus Christ, who fulfills both the priestly and kingly roles, bridging the gap between God and humanity.

Symbolism of the Crown
The crown signifies authority and honor. In our lives, we are called to recognize Christ's authority and honor Him as both our Savior and Lord.

The Importance of Obedience
Just as Joshua was obedient in his role, we are called to faithfully serve in the roles God has given us, trusting in His plan and timing.

God's Sovereignty in Restoration
The rebuilding of the temple and the crowning of Joshua symbolize God's power to restore and renew. We can trust God to restore our lives and communities.

Unity in Christ
The unification of the priestly and kingly roles in Christ calls us to unity in the body of Christ, working together for His kingdom purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the crowning of Joshua as high priest in Zechariah 6:11 foreshadow the coming of Jesus Christ as both priest and king?

2. In what ways can we recognize and honor Christ's authority in our daily lives, as symbolized by the crown in Zechariah 6:11?

3. How does the rebuilding of the temple during Zechariah's time encourage us to trust in God's power to restore and renew our own lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joshua's obedience and faithfulness in his role as high priest, and how can we apply these lessons to our own roles and responsibilities?

5. How can the unity of priestly and kingly roles in Christ inspire us to work towards unity within the body of Christ today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 7
Discusses Jesus as the ultimate high priest, drawing a parallel to Joshua's role and the foreshadowing of Christ's dual role as priest and king.

Revelation 19
Describes Christ as the King of Kings, connecting to the imagery of the crown and the ultimate fulfillment of the prophecy in Zechariah.

Psalm 110
Speaks of the Messiah as a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek, linking the priestly and kingly roles.