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Book of Zechariah - Chapter 3 - Verse 1

3:1
And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him.

Meaning

When interpreting the verse "And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him," it is important to understand the context in which it is set. In this passage from the book of Zechariah in the Old Testament, the high priest Joshua is shown standing before the angel of the LORD, with Satan at his right hand to accuse him. This scene is symbolic of the spiritual warfare that takes place in the heavenly realms, where Satan acts as the accuser, seeking to bring accusations against God's people. Joshua, as the high priest, represents the people of Israel, who are constantly under attack from the forces of evil. The angel of the LORD serves as a mediator between Joshua and Satan, showing that God's divine protection and intervention are always present, even in the face of adversity.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse is that it illustrates the spiritual warfare between good and evil. Joshua the high priest represents the righteous individual, standing before the angel of the LORD, symbolizing divine protection and guidance. On the other hand, Satan is depicted as standing at his right hand, ready to resist him. This imagery highlights the constant battle between righteousness and temptation, emphasizing the need for vigilance and reliance on God's strength in the face of opposition. The presence of Satan in this scene serves as a reminder of the adversary's relentless attempts to hinder and discourage believers in their faith. Additionally, the mention of Joshua as a high priest underscores the significance of spiritual leadership and the responsibility of those in positions of authority to withstand the attacks of the enemy through faith and obedience. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle between light and darkness in the spiritual realm.

American Standard Version

And he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of Jehovah, and Satan standing at his right hand to be his adversary.
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