Zechariah 6:9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

God speaks to the revered prophet Zechariah, or through him addresses all who are associated with Zerubbabel, a descendant of the tribe of Judah and a leader over the Israelites, as appointed by the royal lineage. It is essential to first remember what God said regarding him: "the hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundations of this house, and his hands shall finish it" (Zech. 4:9). Alongside him, during the establishment and completion of the temple, stood Jesus son of Josedec, the high priest.

The Lord's word came to me, instructing me to accept the offerings from the captivity of Heldai, Tobiah, and Jedi, and to proceed into the residence of Josiah, son of Sophonias, who has returned from Babylon. You are to take his silver and gold, fashion a crown, and place it on the head of Josiah, son of Josedech, the high priest. The prophet speaks once more to the priestly order, intending to honor him with a golden crown provided by the righteous men. This crown, crafted from the resources of those who returned from Babylon, is intended to adorn Jesus.

The word of the Lord came to me, instructing me to take from the captives—specifically from the princes, their attendants, and those who know him. On this day, I am to visit the house of Josiah, son of Sophonias, who returned from Babylon. I must collect silver and gold to fashion crowns, which will then be placed upon the head of Joses, the high priest. Speak to him, saying: Thus says the Lord Almighty, Behold the Man, whose name is the East. He will be born and will establish the house of the Lord. He will be endowed with authority, sit down, and reign on his throne. He shall serve as a priest at his right hand, and the counsel of peace shall exist between them. This crown is for those who await him, for his faithful servants, and for those who recognize him.

"And he cried out to me, saying, 'Look, those who have departed into the land of the north have found rest for My Spirit in the land of the north.' This signifies that I have administered righteous judgment upon the Babylonians, a penalty they had long warranted but had not yet experienced within My humanity. Following these visions, the Prophet is instructed to accept the offerings brought by the exiles. However, this is not a call for all, but specifically for 'those of the princes, and of his keys, and of those who comprehend him.' This refers to those who have endured the hardships, understand the reasons behind the captivity, and recognize its benefits.