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Is Babylon Returning? An Exploration of Zechariah 5 and End-Time Prophecy
Sixbert SANGWA January 14, 2025
Throughout history, people have been captivated by the mysteries of the future. While many turn to secular sources for predictions, the Bible remains the most authoritative source for understanding what lies ahead. Prophecies such as those found in Zechariah 5 provide profound insights into God's divine plans and the systems that will emerge during the tribulation period. This article examines the prophetic vision of Zechariah 5:1-11, exploring its connection to the rise of Babylon and its implications for our modern world.

Zechariah 5 begins with a vision of a flying scroll, symbolizing God's retribution against sin (Zechariah 5:1-4). However, the focus of this study shifts to the second part of the chapter, where Zechariah sees an ephah (a large basket) containing a woman, covered by a lead lid. This peculiar vision unfolds under the guidance of an angel who reveals its meaning.

The angel instructs Zechariah to "lift up now your eyes and see what is going forth" (Zechariah 5:5). This command to look up suggests a heavenly revelation. The vision's elements—the ephah, the woman, the lead cover, and the two women with stork-like wings—are rich in symbolism. These components point to a future system of wickedness and the re-establishment of Babylon as a spiritual and political power during the tribulation period.

The ephah, a grain basket, is commonly used for trade and commerce, holding about 35 liters. In this vision, however, the basket contains a woman, described by the angel as "Wickedness" (Zechariah 5:8). The woman represents not an individual but a collective entity—a system or organization that embodies evil. Similar to how the Bride of Christ represents the Church (Revelation 19:7), this woman symbolizes the antithesis of God's holiness.

The lead cover sealing the basket emphasizes the containment of wickedness until its appointed time. This mirrors the restraint of evil forces mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2:7, where the "man of lawlessness" is revealed only when the restrainer is removed. The heaviness of the lead suggests the weight of sin and the deliberate action required to release it at a specific moment in history.

Zechariah's vision includes two women with stork-like wings who carry the basket to the land of Shinar (modern-day Iraq). Storks, considered unclean birds in Leviticus 11:19, signify the unholy nature of this act. These women, driven by "the wind in their wings" (Zechariah 5:9), move the basket under divine direction, as the wind often symbolizes God's Spirit (John 3:8). Despite their unclean purpose, they fulfill God's plan, highlighting His sovereignty over all events.

The destination, Shinar, is significant. Historically, it is the location of Babylon, established by Nimrod as a center of rebellion against God (Genesis 11:1-9). This prophetic vision points to a resurgence of Babylon as a hub of spiritual and economic corruption during the end times, as detailed in Revelation 17-18.

The "harlot" of Revelation 17 represents a global system of false religion and economic exploitation. This system aligns with Zechariah's vision, where the woman in the basket is transported to Shinar to "build her a house" (Zechariah 5:11). This house is not merely a physical structure but a symbolic representation of the system's consolidation and influence.

Revelation 18 describes the fall of Babylon, lamented by merchants and kings for its destruction of their source of wealth (Revelation 18:9-11). The connection between Zechariah's ephah and Revelation's Babylon underscores the global scope of this system, driven by greed, idolatry, and opposition to God.

As we examine the trends of our time, the parallels to this prophecy are striking. The rise of globalism, digital currencies, and technological control mirrors the centralized systems foretold in Scripture. Blockchain technology, for example, facilitates a worldwide economic network, potentially paving the way for the "mark of the beast" described in Revelation 13:16-17. Are we witnessing the early stages of the system Zechariah and John prophesied?

Furthermore, the moral decline in societies worldwide reflects the woman's wickedness. Cultural normalization of sin, combined with increasing hostility toward biblical values, signals a turning away from God. As Christians, are we discerning these trends and preparing our hearts for Christ's return?

The vision of Zechariah 5 challenges us to consider our place in God's unfolding plan. Are we aligning our lives with His Word, or are we being swayed by the deceitful systems of the world? Jesus warned, "For what will it benefit someone if he gains the whole world yet loses his life?" (Matthew 16:26).

The return of Babylon is not merely an abstract concept but a reality with spiritual and practical implications. As we see these prophecies taking shape, we must remain steadfast in faith, rejecting the allure of materialism and the false promises of worldly systems. Instead, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, "the pioneer and perfecter of our faith" (Hebrews 12:2).

The prophecies of Zechariah 5 and Revelation call us to vigilance and faithfulness. The rise of Babylon symbolizes humanity's rebellion against God and the ultimate triumph of His justice. As these events draw nearer, we are reminded of God's sovereignty and His call to holiness.

Are we ready to heed His warnings and embrace His truth? The time to decide is now. Let us seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, immerse ourselves in Scripture, and live as ambassadors of Christ in a world increasingly hostile to the Gospel. Only through faith in Jesus can we find refuge from the coming judgment and hope for eternal life.