Zechariah 5:3

Then said he unto me, This is the curse that goeth forth over the face of the whole earth: for every one that stealeth shall be cut off as on this side according to it; and every one that sweareth shall be cut off as on that side according to it.

Zechariah 5:3 (KJV)

Context

The book of Zechariah was written during the time of the Jewish people’s return from exile in Babylon. The prophet Zechariah delivered messages from God to encourage the people to rebuild the temple and restore their relationship with God. In this particular vision, Zechariah sees a flying scroll (Zechariah 5:1-2), which represents a divine judgment or curse.

Meaning

The angel explains that the flying scroll represents a curse going forth over the face of the whole earth. This curse is God’s judgment upon sin, with writing on both sides addressing two specific sins: stealing and swearing falsely. This is not a mere spell but a declaration of judgment from the Lord, rooted in the law of Moses, which contains curses for disobedience (Deuteronomy 27:15-26; 28:15-26; 29:19-20; 30:19).

The verse states that “everyone that stealeth shall be cut off as on this side according to it.” Stealing refers to taking what does not belong to you without permission or by deceit, highlighting God’s condemnation of dishonesty and theft. The verse further states that “everyone that sweareth shall be cut off as on that side according to it.” Swearing here does not refer to foul language but to making false oaths or vows, speaking to the sin of false promises or using God’s name in vain.

The phrase “shall be cut off” indicates severe consequences: being separated or excluded from God’s blessings and presence, banished or removed from the community. The following verse (Zechariah 5:4) shows the curse entering the house of the thief and the one who swears falsely by God’s name, consuming it completely.

Biblical connections

This vision connects to the Ten Commandments, specifically the prohibitions against stealing (Exodus 20:15) and bearing false witness or swearing falsely (Exodus 20:7). The curse is according to law and justice; it is from the Lord and is no other than the wrath of the Almighty. The vision emphasizes that God’s judgment is certain and that sin, particularly theft and false oaths, will not go unpunished.

Application

This verse teaches us about God’s righteous character and His expectation for His people to live uprightly. It reminds us that God detests dishonesty, stealing, and falsehood. He desires a people who are truthful, trustworthy, and respectful of others. As believers, this verse reminds us to examine our own lives and ensure we are living in accordance with God’s standards of honesty and integrity. We should strive to be people of integrity who keep our promises and speak truthfully. It also encourages us to seek forgiveness and repentance when we fall short in these areas.

Reflection

Zechariah 5:3 conveys a message of God’s judgment upon theft and false oaths. It reminds us of the importance of honesty, integrity, and keeping our promises. As followers of God, we are called to live uprightly and seek forgiveness when we fail to meet His standards.