Biblical Reference:
The vision of the Woman in a Basket is found in the book of Zechariah, specifically in Zechariah 5:5-11. This passage is part of a series of visions given to the prophet Zechariah, which convey messages of judgment and restoration for the people of Israel.

Context and Content:
The vision occurs during the post-exilic period, a time when the Israelites were returning from Babylonian captivity and rebuilding Jerusalem and the temple. Zechariah's prophecies are aimed at encouraging the people in their efforts to restore their community and to live in obedience to God.

In Zechariah 5:5-11, the prophet is shown a vision by an angel. The angel instructs Zechariah to look up and see what is going forth. Zechariah sees a basket, which the angel explains is the iniquity of the people throughout the land. The basket, or ephah, is a large container used for measuring grain, symbolizing commerce and trade, but here it represents the sin and wickedness of the people.

Inside the basket sits a woman, whom the angel identifies as "Wickedness." The woman is thrust back into the basket and covered with a lead cover, symbolizing the containment and suppression of sin. The vision continues with two women appearing with wings like those of a stork. They lift the basket between heaven and earth and carry it to the land of Shinar, which is another name for Babylon. The angel explains that a house will be built for the basket in Shinar, where it will be set upon its base.

Symbolism and Interpretation:
The vision of the Woman in a Basket is rich with symbolic meaning. The woman represents the personification of wickedness, indicating the moral and spiritual corruption that had infiltrated the land. The use of a basket, a common tool for trade, suggests that the sin was related to economic practices, possibly dishonest trade or exploitation.

The covering of the basket with a lead lid signifies the containment of sin, suggesting that God is taking action to restrain and remove wickedness from among His people. The transportation of the basket to Shinar, or Babylon, symbolizes the removal of sin from Israel and its return to the place of exile and judgment. Babylon, historically a place of idolatry and rebellion against God, serves as a fitting destination for wickedness.

The vision underscores the theme of purification and the necessity of removing sin from the community to restore a right relationship with God. It reflects God's commitment to holiness and His intention to cleanse His people from iniquity.

Theological Significance:
From a theological perspective, the vision of the Woman in a Basket highlights God's sovereignty and justice. It serves as a reminder that God is aware of the sins of His people and is actively working to address and remove them. The vision also points to the hope of restoration and the establishment of a community that is faithful and obedient to God's commandments.

The imagery of the woman being carried away to Babylon can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate defeat of sin and evil, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative. It emphasizes the importance of repentance and the need for God's people to turn away from wickedness and embrace righteousness.

Application for Believers:
For contemporary believers, the vision of the Woman in a Basket serves as a call to examine one's own life and community for areas of sin that need to be addressed. It encourages Christians to trust in God's power to cleanse and purify, and to actively participate in the process of sanctification. The vision also reassures believers of God's ultimate victory over evil and His desire to establish a holy and righteous people for Himself.