The command to place a clean turban on Joshua's head is a significant event found in the book of Zechariah, specifically in Zechariah 3:1-7. This passage is part of a series of visions given to the prophet Zechariah, which convey messages of hope, restoration, and divine favor to the people of Israel during the post-exilic period. The vision of Joshua, the high priest, is particularly rich in symbolism and theological meaning.

Context and Background

The historical context of this vision is the period following the Babylonian exile, when the Jewish people were returning to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple and restore their community. Joshua, the high priest, and Zerubbabel, the governor, were key leaders in this restoration effort. The people faced numerous challenges, including opposition from surrounding nations and the daunting task of rebuilding their society.

The Vision of Joshua

In Zechariah 3:1-7, Joshua is depicted standing before the Angel of the LORD, with Satan standing at his right hand to accuse him. The LORD rebukes Satan, emphasizing His choice of Jerusalem and His intention to restore His people. Joshua is described as wearing filthy garments, symbolizing the sin and impurity of the nation.

The Angel of the LORD commands those standing before Him to remove Joshua's filthy garments, declaring, "See, I have removed your iniquity, and I will clothe you with splendid robes" (Zechariah 3:4). This act signifies the removal of sin and the bestowal of righteousness upon Joshua, representing the cleansing and renewal of the priesthood and, by extension, the people of Israel.

The Clean Turban

The command to place a clean turban on Joshua's head is given in Zechariah 3:5: "Then I said, 'Let them put a clean turban on his head.' So they put a clean turban on his head and clothed him, as the Angel of the LORD stood by" . The turban is an essential part of the high priest's attire, as described in Exodus 28:36-39, where it is adorned with a gold plate inscribed with "Holy to the LORD."

The placement of the clean turban on Joshua's head signifies the restoration of his priestly authority and the sanctification required for his service in the temple. It symbolizes God's grace and forgiveness, as well as the reinstatement of the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Theological Significance

This vision underscores several key theological themes. Firstly, it highlights the role of the high priest as an intercessor and mediator between God and His people. Joshua's cleansing and re-clothing illustrate the necessity of purity and holiness in approaching God.

Secondly, the vision emphasizes God's sovereign choice and His power to redeem and restore. Despite the accusations of Satan, God affirms His commitment to His people and His plan for their future.

Lastly, the vision foreshadows the ultimate high priest, Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfills the role of mediator and intercessor. Through His atoning sacrifice, believers are cleansed from sin and clothed in His righteousness, enabling them to stand blameless before God.

Conclusion

The command to place a clean turban on Joshua's head is a profound moment in the prophetic literature, rich with symbolism and hope. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness, His power to cleanse and restore, and the promise of a future where His people are fully reconciled to Him.