Topical Encyclopedia
Biblical Reference: The Vision of the Flying Scroll is found in the Book of Zechariah, specifically in
Zechariah 5:1-4. This vision is one of a series of prophetic visions given to Zechariah, a post-exilic prophet, who ministered to the Jewish people after their return from Babylonian captivity.
Context and Background: Zechariah's ministry occurred during the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem, a time when the Jewish community was re-establishing itself in the land of Judah. The visions given to Zechariah were meant to encourage the people and provide divine insight into God's plans for Israel and the world. The Vision of the Flying Scroll is the sixth vision in a sequence of eight, each carrying significant symbolic meaning.
Description of the Vision: In
Zechariah 5:1-2 , the prophet describes the vision: "Again I lifted up my eyes and saw before me a flying scroll. 'What do you see?' asked the angel who was speaking with me. 'I see a flying scroll,' I replied, 'twenty cubits long and ten cubits wide.'"
The scroll's dimensions, approximately 30 feet by 15 feet, are significant, as they match the dimensions of the Holy Place in the Tabernacle, suggesting a connection to divine law and holiness.
Interpretation and Symbolism: The angel explains the vision in
Zechariah 5:3-4 : "Then he said to me, 'This is the curse that is going out over the face of all the land, for according to what is written on one side, every thief will be banished, and according to what is written on the other side, everyone who swears falsely will be banished. I will send it out,' declares the LORD of Hosts, 'and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of him who swears falsely by My name. It will remain inside his house and consume it, with its timber and stones.'"
The flying scroll represents God's judgment and the enforcement of His law. The two sins specifically mentioned—thievery and false swearing—are representative of violations of the Ten Commandments, particularly the eighth and third commandments, respectively. These sins symbolize broader moral and ethical transgressions that were prevalent among the people.
Theological Significance: The vision underscores the holiness and justice of God. It serves as a reminder that God is aware of the sins of His people and will not tolerate unrighteousness. The scroll's flight over the land signifies the pervasive nature of God's judgment, which will reach every corner and expose every hidden sin.
Furthermore, the vision emphasizes the importance of covenant faithfulness. The post-exilic community was called to renew their commitment to God's law as they rebuilt their society. The vision of the flying scroll serves as both a warning and a call to repentance, urging the people to align their lives with God's standards.
Application for Believers: For contemporary believers, the Vision of the Flying Scroll is a powerful reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin and the importance of living a life of integrity and truth. It calls Christians to examine their own lives, ensuring that they are not harboring sins that could bring about divine discipline. The vision also reassures believers of God's ultimate justice and His commitment to righteousness, encouraging them to trust in His sovereign plan.