Zechariah’s vision of Joshua the High Priest is found in Zechariah 3:1–10. It presents a powerful message of God’s mercy, cleansing, and the future coming of the Messiah.
In the vision, Zechariah sees Joshua the High Priest standing before the Angel of the Lord, with Satan standing at his right hand to accuse him. The Lord rebukes Satan, saying, “The Lord who has chosen Jerusalem rebuke you! Is this not a brand plucked from the fire?” (Zechariah 3:2). Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, symbolizing the sin and impurity of both himself and the nation he represented.
The Angel of the Lord, interpreted by many as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, commands that Joshua’s filthy garments be removed, saying, “See, I have removed your iniquity from you, and I will clothe you with rich robes” (verse 4). A clean turban is also placed on his head, restoring his dignity and position.
Then the Angel gives a charge: if Joshua walks in God’s ways and keeps His commands, he will judge God’s house and have access among those who stand before Him. The vision concludes with a messianic promise: “For behold, I am bringing forth My Servant the BRANCH” (Zechariah 3:8). The “Branch” is a title for the coming Messiah (cf. Isaiah 11:1; Jeremiah 23:5).
Verse 9 refers to the “stone” laid before Joshua, engraved and associated with the removal of iniquity in one day, a prophecy pointing to the once-for-all atonement accomplished by Jesus Christ.
This vision illustrates God’s readiness to forgive, cleanse, and restore those who serve Him, despite Satan’s accusations. It also points forward to the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who removes sin and intercedes for His people.
