Old Testament
Zechariah 5:2
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The angel asked me, "What do you see?" I answered, "I see a flying scroll — it's 20 cubits long and 10 cubits wide."
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And he said unto me, What seest thou? And I answered, I see a flying roll; the length thereof is twenty cubits, and the breadth thereof ten cubits.
What Zechariah 5:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Zechariah is having a vision where an angel is asking him what he sees. Zechariah describes a flying scroll, which is a significant symbol in this context. The dimensions of the scroll, 20 cubits long and 10 cubits wide, suggest it is quite large, indicating the importance of its message. In ancient times, scrolls were used to convey written laws and decrees, so this flying scroll likely represents God's judgment or a message of warning against sin. The act of it flying suggests that the message is urgent and meant to reach people quickly. This vision sets the stage for understanding the themes of accountability and divine justice that will unfold in the following verses. The scroll's size and movement emphasize the seriousness of the content it carries, which is meant to be seen and understood by all.
How to apply Zechariah 5:2 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of being aware of God's messages in our lives. Just as the scroll carried a significant message, we should be attentive to the teachings and warnings found in scripture. Reflecting on our actions in light of God's word can guide us toward righteousness.
Curated for this public verse page. Zechariah Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Zechariah
- Author
- Zechariah the prophet
- Written
- Around 520-480 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Zechariah 5:2 mean?
Zechariah 5:2 describes a vision where the prophet sees a large flying scroll, symbolizing God's message of judgment and warning against sin. The dimensions of the scroll emphasize the importance of its content, suggesting it is meant to be widely recognized and heeded.
What is the significance of the flying scroll in Zechariah 5:2?
The flying scroll in Zechariah 5:2 represents God's urgent message of judgment. Its movement indicates that the message is meant to reach people quickly, highlighting the seriousness of the warnings contained within.
What does the size of the scroll in Zechariah 5:2 indicate?
The scroll's size, measuring 20 cubits long and 10 cubits wide, indicates that it carries a significant and important message. In biblical times, large scrolls were often used for important laws and decrees, suggesting the weight of the message it conveys.
What themes are present in Zechariah 5:2?
Zechariah 5:2 encompasses themes of divine judgment, accountability, and the urgency of God's message. The vision emphasizes the need for awareness of God's laws and the consequences of sin.
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