Question 1

What does Zechariah 5:7 mean?

Accepted Answer

Zechariah 5:7 describes a vision in which a heavy lead cover is lifted, revealing a woman sitting inside a measuring basket called an ephah. The verse presents a symbolic scene, with the woman and the ephah representing something hidden that is now being exposed. In this passage, the prophet Zechariah is describing what he sees in a vision given by God. The ephah was a standard measure for grain, and here it is used as a container. The woman sitting inside the ephah is part of a symbolic message, and the lead (a very heavy metal) lid suggests something being tightly sealed or contained until the right moment. This vision is part of a series of symbolic images meant to communicate spiritual truths to the people of Israel after their return from exile.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Zechariah 5:7

Accepted Answer

"Talent" (כִּכָּר, kikkar): This word refers to a large weight, here made of lead. The use of a "talent" emphasizes the heaviness and seriousness of what is being covered or contained. "Lead" (עוֹפֶרֶת, ‘opheret): Lead is a dense, heavy metal. Its presence as a lid suggests that what is inside the ephah is meant to be securely kept in or hidden until revealed. "Woman" (אִשָּׁה, ishah): The woman in the ephah is a symbolic figure. In the context of Zechariah’s visions, she is often understood as representing wickedness or iniquity, though the verse itself simply identifies her as a woman. "Ephah" (אֵיפָה, ephah): An ephah is a standard measure for dry goods, but here it is used as a container. Its use in the vision adds to the sense of measuring or containing something significant.

Question 3

Why Zechariah 5:7 matters

Accepted Answer

Zechariah 5:7 helps clarify that the vision is not about ordinary events but about something hidden and weighty being revealed, using strong visual symbols familiar to the original audience. The detail of the heavy lead lid highlights the seriousness and the deliberate containment of the woman, which is important for understanding the message that follows in the vision. This verse connects to the broader theme in Zechariah of God exposing and dealing with sin among His people, setting the stage for the rest of the vision’s explanation.

Zechariah 5:7 (KJV)