Zechariah 3

1. Joshua the high priest. See Hag. i. 1; Ezra ii. 1.

Satan. The Adversary or “the accuser”; who, in ancient courts of justice, stood at the right hand of the accused: see Psa. cix. 6. The Evil One is not necessarily meant here.

2 a brand plucked out of the fire. That is, a remnant rescued from destruction: see Amos iv. 11.

3. Joshua was clothed with filthy garments. Denoting the sins and pollutions of the people, and especially of the priesthood.

5. And I said. If this reading is correct, the prophet seems to interpose a request. But the Chaldee, Syriac, and Vulgate read “he said,” which agrees better with the context.

mitre. “turban.”

7. I will give thee places to walk, etc. I will give thee a place among those who are My helpers (“who stand by”).

8 men wondered at. Rather, “men of wonder,” or of sign; i.e., men intended for signs and tokens: see R.V., and cp. Isa. xx. 3; Ezek. xii. 11; xxiv. 24. You and your brethren, now restored to your country and to your priestly functions, are a sign and pledge of the fulfilment of My great promise of the Messiah. Hence He is here spoken of as “the Branch,” or, “Scion,” a title intimating the revival in Him of Israel’s glory: see Isa. iv. 2; xi. 1, and notes.

9 seven eyes. Perhaps seven facets.

10 call. “Invite”: the communion of saints.