Zechariah 6 Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter concludes the eight night visions (vv. 1-8) with four chariots dispatched as divine agents, then shifts to a sign-act in which Zechariah crowns Joshua the high priest and delivers the “Branch” oracle (vv. 9-15).

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

The Branch

The title “Branch” (צֶּמַח) is a messianic designation for a coming king who will build the temple and unite kingship and priesthood on one throne, with “a counsel of peace” between the two offices (vv. 12-13).

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Nested Quotations

Verses 10-15 contain three levels of quotation as Yahweh instructs Zechariah to speak to Joshua a message from Yahweh of Armies.

Zechariah 6 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

This chapter is written mainly in prose and tells the last vision of the four chariots in the first part of the chapter.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 6:12–13.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Meaning of the visions

The visions are stated and even when the prophet asked for an explanation, their true meaning is often obscure. This uncertainty should remain in your translation. (See: prophet)