Old Testament
Zechariah 5:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Zechariah 5:10, the prophet Zechariah is in a vision where he sees a flying scroll and a basket.
- Author
- Zechariah the prophet
- Written
- Around 520-480 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
I asked the angel who was talking with me, "Where are they taking the basket?"
Then said I to the angel that talked with me, Whither do these bear the ephah?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Zechariah 5:10, the prophet Zechariah is in a vision where he sees a flying scroll and a basket. He asks the angel accompanying him about the destination of the basket. The basket symbolizes the sins of the people, and the question reflects Zechariah's curiosity about God's plan for dealing with these sins. The angel's response will reveal how God intends to remove wickedness from the land. This moment highlights the importance of understanding divine messages and the process of purification that God enacts among His people. It emphasizes the need for awareness of sin and the hope for redemption and restoration. Zechariah's inquiry shows a desire to comprehend God's workings, which is essential for spiritual growth and understanding. This passage invites readers to reflect on their own lives and the ways in which they seek to understand God's guidance and the removal of sin.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Zechariah 5:10 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek understanding in our spiritual journeys. Just as Zechariah asked questions about the vision, we should be open to inquiring about God's will in our lives. Engaging with scripture and seeking answers can lead to deeper insights and a clearer path toward righteousness.
Curated for this public verse page. Zechariah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Zechariah 5:10 mean?
In Zechariah 5:10, the prophet Zechariah asks an angel about the destination of a basket he sees in a vision. This basket symbolizes the sins of the people, and the inquiry reflects Zechariah's desire to understand God's plan for addressing wickedness.
What is the significance of the basket in Zechariah 5:10?
The basket in Zechariah 5:10 represents the sins of the people, indicating God's intention to remove wickedness from the land. Zechariah's question about its destination shows a curiosity about how God will deal with these sins.
What does the angel's response in Zechariah 5:10 reveal?
While Zechariah 5:10 does not include the angel's response, it sets the stage for understanding God's plan for purification. The response will clarify how God intends to address the sins represented by the basket.
How does Zechariah 5:10 relate to the theme of sin and purification?
Zechariah 5:10 highlights the theme of sin and purification by showing the prophet's inquiry into how God will remove wickedness. This reflects the broader message of seeking redemption and understanding God's process of cleansing.

The Book of Zechariah
Zechariah 1: Call to Return and Vision of Horses
The word of the LORD comes to Zechariah the son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo, telling the people not to be like their fathers who refuse to listen to the earlier prophets. The LORD reminds them that their fathers experience the consequences of disobedience. The people acknowledge that the LORD deals with them according to their ways and actions.
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