The Woman in the Measuring Basket

Zechariah 5:1–11
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In this chapter we have two visions, by which “the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men.” God will do great and kind things for His people, which the faithful sons of Israel shall rejoice in, but “let the sinners in Zion be afraid;” for God will reckon severely with those among them that are wicked and profane.

The sixth vision is that of a flying scroll (v. 1). A scroll was a roll of writing paper on which copies of biblical books were written. It can be divided into two parts:

1. Details of the vision (vv. 1,2)
2. Interpretation of the vision (vv. 3,4)

This scroll appears to be about 30 feet long and 15 feet wide (v. 2). It is interesting to note that this size is the same as that of the holy place in the tabernacle. It represents the words of God’s curse going out over the entire earth as it reveals sin and brings sinners to destruction.

Details of the seventh vision concerning the woman in the ephah (measuring basket) (vv. 5-11).  Zechariah tells the people that not only must sin be removed from the hearts of individuals but also from the land of Judah itself. The ephah was an instrument used to measure grain. Israel had been contaminated by her activity in Babylon which was the source of idolatry and other sins against God. The winged women (v. 9) are agents of the Lord. In this vision they transport the dreadful load of Israel’s curse back to their origin in Babylon.

Application

As I read this I can better understand what was happening in Iraq with Saddam Hussein in power. However, it is only by the grace of God and me staying close to Him or I would be the same.