Zechariah 5:6

"What is it?" I asked. And he replied, "A measuring basket is going forth." Then he continued, "This is their iniquity in all the land."

Study Bible

What is it?
This phrase reflects Zechariah's curiosity and desire for understanding. In the Hebrew text, the phrase is "מָה הִיא" (mah hi), which is a straightforward inquiry. This question signifies the prophet's role as an intermediary who seeks divine wisdom to convey to the people. It underscores the importance of seeking clarity and understanding in spiritual matters, a principle that resonates throughout Scripture.

I asked
Zechariah's act of asking demonstrates a proactive engagement with the vision. The Hebrew root "שָׁאַל" (sha'al) means to inquire or request. This reflects a posture of humility and dependence on God for revelation. It encourages believers to actively seek God's guidance and wisdom in their own lives, emphasizing the relational aspect of faith.

And he replied
The response comes from the angelic messenger, indicating divine communication. The Hebrew verb "אָמַר" (amar) is used here, which means to say or declare. This highlights the role of angels as messengers of God's truth. It reassures believers that God is not silent but communicates His will and purposes to those who seek Him.

This is a measuring basket
The term "measuring basket" is translated from the Hebrew "אֵיפָה" (ephah), a unit of dry measure. In the context of Zechariah's vision, it symbolizes judgment and the standard by which iniquity is assessed. The ephah was a common measure in ancient Israel, used in trade and commerce, thus representing fairness and justice. This imagery calls believers to reflect on God's righteous standards and the importance of integrity.

that is approaching
The phrase indicates movement and imminent action. The Hebrew root "יָצָא" (yatsa) means to go out or come forth. This suggests that the vision is not just a static image but a dynamic unfolding of God's plan. It serves as a reminder of the certainty and swiftness of divine judgment, urging believers to live in readiness and alignment with God's will.

Then he continued
The continuation of the angel's explanation signifies the unfolding of deeper truths. The Hebrew "וַיֹּאמֶר" (vayomer) is used, indicating a further declaration. This progression in the vision encourages believers to seek deeper understanding and not be content with superficial knowledge of God's word.

This is their iniquity
The term "iniquity" is translated from the Hebrew "עֲוֹן" (avon), which denotes guilt or sin. It represents the moral and spiritual failings of the people. This highlights the seriousness with which God views sin and the need for repentance. It serves as a call to self-examination and the pursuit of holiness.

in all the land
This phrase emphasizes the widespread nature of the iniquity. The Hebrew "בָּאָרֶץ" (ba'aretz) refers to the land, often symbolizing the nation of Israel. It underscores the collective responsibility of the community and the pervasive impact of sin. This calls believers to intercede for their nations and communities, seeking God's mercy and transformation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet of the post-exilic period who received visions from God to encourage the Israelites in rebuilding the temple and renewing their covenant with God.

2. Angel
A divine messenger who interprets the visions for Zechariah, providing clarity and understanding of God's messages.

3. Measuring Basket (Ephah)
A large container used for measuring grain, symbolizing the iniquity and wickedness of the people in the land.

4. The Land
Refers to the land of Israel, representing the people and their collective moral and spiritual state.

5. Iniquity
The sin and moral corruption prevalent among the people, which God is addressing through this vision.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Measuring Basket
The ephah represents the full measure of sin and iniquity. It serves as a reminder that God is aware of the moral state of His people and will address it in His timing.

Divine Judgment and Mercy
While the vision highlights iniquity, it also implies God's intention to purify and restore. Believers are encouraged to examine their lives and seek God's mercy and forgiveness.

Call to Righteousness
The passage challenges believers to live with integrity and righteousness, avoiding the deceit and corruption symbolized by the ephah.

Awareness of Sin
Just as the ephah reveals the iniquity in the land, believers are called to be aware of their own sins and the need for repentance.

God's Sovereignty
The vision underscores God's control over the moral order and His ultimate plan to address sin, encouraging trust in His justice and timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the symbolism of the measuring basket (ephah) in Zechariah 5:6 help us understand God's view of sin and iniquity?

2. In what ways can we relate the concept of iniquity in "all the land" to our current societal context, and how should this influence our prayers and actions?

3. How does the role of the angel in Zechariah's vision encourage us to seek divine understanding and guidance in our spiritual journey?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our lives reflect righteousness and integrity, avoiding the deceit symbolized by the ephah?

5. How can the themes of divine judgment and mercy in Zechariah 5:6 inspire us to share the message of repentance and hope with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Amos 8:5
This verse also uses the imagery of a measuring basket (ephah) to highlight dishonest practices and corruption, drawing a parallel to the iniquity mentioned in Zechariah 5:6.

Revelation 18:5
The concept of iniquity reaching its full measure is echoed here, where the sins of Babylon are described as having reached heaven, indicating divine judgment.

Proverbs 11:1
This verse speaks against dishonest scales, connecting to the theme of justice and righteousness versus iniquity and corruption.