Zechariah 5:9

Then I lifted up my eyes and saw two women approaching, with the wind in their wings. Their wings were like those of a stork, and they lifted up the basket between heaven and earth.

Study Bible

Then I lifted up my eyes and saw two women approaching
This phrase indicates a visionary experience, common in prophetic literature, where the prophet receives divine revelation. The act of lifting one's eyes suggests readiness to receive a message from God. The presence of two women is unusual in biblical visions, as women are not typically depicted as agents of divine action. This could symbolize a break from traditional roles, emphasizing the unexpected ways God can work. The number two often signifies confirmation or witness, as seen in Deuteronomy 19:15, where two witnesses establish a matter.

with the wind in their wings
The wind is often symbolic of the Spirit of God, as seen in Genesis 1:2 and Acts 2:2. Here, it suggests divine empowerment and swiftness. The imagery of wings conveys speed and the ability to transcend earthly limitations, reminiscent of the cherubim in Ezekiel 1:6. This phrase emphasizes the supernatural nature of the vision and the divine origin of the mission these women are undertaking.

Their wings were like those of a stork
The stork is a large bird known for its strength and migratory patterns, often associated with care and protection due to its nurturing behavior. In Leviticus 11:19, the stork is listed among unclean birds, which might imply a message of judgment or purification. The comparison to a stork highlights the power and purposefulness of the women's mission, suggesting a divine task that involves both judgment and deliverance.

and they lifted up the basket between heaven and earth
The basket, previously mentioned in Zechariah 5:7-8, contains wickedness personified. The act of lifting it between heaven and earth signifies a transition or removal from the earthly realm, possibly indicating judgment or purification. This imagery connects to the concept of spiritual warfare, where forces of good and evil contend. The positioning between heaven and earth suggests divine intervention and the ultimate authority of God over both realms, echoing themes found in Ephesians 6:12.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
The prophet who receives the vision. He is a post-exilic prophet, encouraging the Israelites during the rebuilding of the temple.

2. Two Women
Mysterious figures in the vision, described as having wings like a stork. They are tasked with carrying the basket.

3. The Basket
Represents iniquity or wickedness, as seen in the broader context of Zechariah 5.

4. Heaven and Earth
The space between heaven and earth signifies a realm of transition or judgment.

5. Stork
A bird known for its large wingspan, symbolizing strength and swiftness in carrying out God's purposes.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Sin
The vision illustrates God's control over sin and its ultimate removal from His people.

Symbolism of the Stork
The stork, an unclean bird in Levitical law, signifies that God can use any means to accomplish His purposes.

Judgment and Redemption
The removal of wickedness is a precursor to redemption and restoration for God's people.

Spiritual Vigilance
Believers are called to be vigilant against sin in their lives, recognizing that God will ultimately deal with all iniquity.

Hope in God's Justice
The vision assures believers of God's justice and the eventual triumph over evil.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the two women with stork-like wings challenge or reinforce your understanding of how God deals with sin?

2. In what ways does the removal of the basket between heaven and earth reflect God's plan for dealing with wickedness in the world today?

3. How can the symbolism of the stork inform our understanding of God's use of unexpected means to fulfill His purposes?

4. What parallels can you draw between this vision in Zechariah and the parables of Jesus regarding the separation of the righteous and the wicked?

5. How does this passage encourage you to live a life of holiness and vigilance against sin in your own life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 6:5
The wickedness of humanity before the flood, highlighting the persistent problem of sin.

Revelation 18:2
The fall of Babylon, symbolizing the ultimate judgment on wickedness.

Isaiah 11:12
The gathering of God's people, contrasting the scattering of wickedness.

Matthew 13:41-42
The parable of the weeds, where angels separate the wicked from the righteous.