The imagery of the two women with wings appears in the prophetic vision of Zechariah, specifically in Zechariah 5:9. This vision is part of a series of night visions given to the prophet Zechariah, which convey messages of judgment and restoration for the people of Israel. The context of these visions is the post-exilic period, a time when the Jewish people were returning from Babylonian captivity and rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem.

Biblical Reference:

In Zechariah 5:9 , the prophet describes the vision: "Then I lifted up my eyes and saw two women approaching, with the wind in their wings. They had wings like those of a stork, and they lifted up the basket between heaven and earth."

Interpretation and Symbolism:

1. The Women:
The two women in Zechariah's vision are unique figures in biblical prophecy. Unlike other angelic or divine messengers, these women are not explicitly identified as angels. Their role is to transport a basket containing a woman personifying wickedness, as described earlier in Zechariah 5:7-8. The presence of women in this vision is notable, as it diverges from the more common depiction of male figures in prophetic roles.

2. Wings Like a Stork:
The description of the women having "wings like those of a stork" is significant. In the ancient Near East, the stork was known for its large wingspan and migratory behavior, symbolizing strength and swiftness. The stork's wings suggest the ability to carry out their task with speed and efficiency. Additionally, the stork was considered an unclean bird according to Levitical law (Leviticus 11:19), which may imply the impurity associated with the wickedness they are tasked to remove.

3. The Basket and Wickedness:
The basket, or ephah, is a measure used for dry goods, symbolizing commerce and trade. In the vision, it contains a woman representing wickedness, who is confined within it by a lead cover. This imagery suggests the containment and removal of sin and iniquity from the land of Israel. The act of lifting the basket "between heaven and earth" indicates a divine intervention in dealing with wickedness, removing it from the earthly realm.

4. The Destination:
While the vision does not specify the final destination of the basket, it is implied that the women are carrying it away from the land of Israel. This act symbolizes the purging of sin and the restoration of holiness among God's people. The removal of wickedness aligns with the broader theme of Zechariah's visions, which emphasize the purification and renewal of the nation in preparation for the coming of the Messiah.

Theological Significance:

The vision of the two women with wings serves as a powerful metaphor for God's judgment and the eradication of sin. It underscores the divine initiative in cleansing His people and preparing them for a future of righteousness and peace. The imagery reflects the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive plan, where sin is ultimately dealt with through divine intervention, paving the way for the establishment of His kingdom.

In the context of Zechariah's prophecies, this vision reassures the post-exilic community of God's active role in their restoration and the eventual triumph over evil. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing spiritual battle and the hope of ultimate deliverance through God's sovereign power.