Zechariah’s vision of the flying scroll is found in Zechariah 5:1–4. In this sixth vision, the prophet sees a large scroll flying through the air. Zechariah says, “I see a flying scroll. Its length is twenty cubits and its width ten cubits” (Zechariah 5:2). These dimensions match those of the holy place in Solomon’s temple (1 Kings 6:3), suggesting the scroll’s connection to divine standards and judgment.
The angel explains that the scroll contains curses that go out over the face of the whole earth: “Every thief shall be expelled… and every perjurer shall be expelled” (Zechariah 5:3). One side of the scroll represents the commandment against stealing, and the other against swearing falsely, symbolizing violations of God’s moral law.
The vision portrays divine judgment against lawlessness. The scroll enters the house of the sinner, remains there, and consumes it “with its timber and stones” (Zechariah 5:4), signifying thorough judgment that cannot be escaped. The flying scroll represents God’s Word in action, specifically His curse upon those who violate His covenant and live in unrepentant sin.
This vision demons/”>demonstrates that God’s judgment is not only national but individual. It reaches the homes of those who transgress. It also affirms that the moral law remains God’s standard and that divine justice is active and precise.
The vision of the flying scroll parallels other proclamations of judgment in Scripture where God’s Word exposes sin. Hebrews 4:12 says the Word is “living and powerful… and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Just as the scroll goes forth with authority, so too God’s Word never returns void but accomplishes what He sends it to do (Isaiah 55:11).
