Zachariah 6:9-11 – Jesus our High Priest and King

Following the series of eight visions, the words of the Lord came to Zachariah, instructing him what to do. There are three critical parts to Zachariah 6:9-15. First is the instruction to make the crown and coronate Joshua. The second is the prophecy concerning the Branch. The third concerns the crown stored in the temple instead of on Joshua's head.

In this discussion, we will only deal with verses 9-11 on the fashioning of the crown and the coronation of Joshua. Zachariah was instructed to collect silver and gold from the returned exiles, Heldai, Tobijah, and Jedaiah, to make a crown and coronate Joshua the high priest.

This is highly unusual. The right person to coronate would have been Zerubbabel, who had descended from the Davidic line. So, why Joshua?  

There is both a real constraint and a prophetic element. Note that though they had returned to Jerusalem from captivity, they were still under the rule of the Persians. Coronating Zerubbabel would be seen as a rebellion against their overlord, whereas Joshua's crowing would be seen as a religious ceremony underscoring Israel's national life and rebuilding the temple.

However, there is a deeper significance to this event.  It carries a prophetic element.  In Jewish tradition, the roles of Priest and King were distinct. A high priest, a descendant of Aaron, would never be crowned as King. The coronation of Joshua hints at a future merging of the roles of priest and King.  

It's important to note that Joshua's name is the root of the name Jesus. Therefore, Joshua's role here is a prefiguration of the coming of the Messiah, who would unite both roles.  In Jesus, the dual role is fulfilled. He is not only our King but also our High Priest.  

We thank God that Jesus is not only the King who reigns in our lives but also our High Priest. With Him reigning in our lives, victory is ensured. As put High Priest, He lives ever to make intercession for us. In Him, an overcoming life is assured.