Zechariah 3:5

KJV

And I said, Let them set a fair mitre upon his head. So they set a fair mitre upon his head, and clothed him with garments. And the angel of the LORD stood by.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I said {H559}, Let them set {H7760} a fair {H2889} mitre {H6797} upon his head {H7218}. So they set {H7760} a fair {H2889} mitre {H6797} upon his head {H7218}, and clothed {H3847} him with garments {H899}. And the angel {H4397} of the LORD {H3068} stood by {H5975}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I said, "They should put a clean turban on his head." So they put a clean turban on his head and gave him fine robes to wear, while the angel of ADONAI stood by.

Berean Standard Bible

Then I said, “Let them put a clean turban on his head.” So a clean turban was placed on his head, and they clothed him, as the angel of the LORD stood by.

American Standard Version

And I said, Let them set a clean mitre upon his head. So they set a clean mitre upon his head, and clothed him with garments; and the angel of Jehovah was standing by.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 3:5 presents a pivotal moment in the vision concerning Joshua the High Priest, where the prophet Zechariah intercedes for Joshua's full restoration. Following the removal of Joshua's "filthy garments," symbolizing the sin and defilement of Israel, this verse describes the immediate divine action of placing a "fair mitre" upon his head and clothing him with new, pure garments. This act powerfully signifies God's sovereign grace in cleansing, re-qualifying, and restoring Joshua to his sacred priestly office, thereby demonstrating God's commitment to His covenant people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 3:5 is an integral part of a dramatic prophetic vision spanning [Zechariah 3:1-10](/zechariah/3-1-10 "Zechariah 3 - The Cleansing of Joshua the High Priest"). The preceding verses establish the scene: Joshua, representing post-exilic Israel, stands before the Angel of the LORD, accused by Satan. Joshua is depicted in "filthy garments" ([Zechariah 3:3](/zechariah/3-3 "Zechariah 3:3 - Joshua's Filthy Garments")), symbolizing the nation's guilt and impurity. The Angel of the LORD rebukes Satan and commands the removal of these defiled clothes, promising "change of raiment" ([Zechariah 3:4](/zechariah/3-4 "Zechariah 3:4 - Removal of Filthy Garments")). Verse 5 is Zechariah's personal interjection, urging for the full restoration, specifically the placement of the priestly turban, which is then immediately fulfilled. The vision culminates in a promise of the "Branch" ([Zechariah 3:8](/zechariah/3-8 "Zechariah 3:8 - The Coming of the Branch")), foreshadowing the Messiah.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** This vision occurs during the post-exilic period, roughly 520 BC, as the Jewish exiles had returned from Babylon and were engaged in rebuilding the Temple in Jerusalem. Joshua, the High Priest, and Zerubbabel, the governor, were key leaders in this reconstruction effort. The people, though returned, were still struggling with spiritual apathy, sin, and the lingering effects of exile, including a sense of defilement and unworthiness. The High Priest's garments, particularly the mitre, were highly significant in Israelite culture, representing his unique role as mediator between God and man, and his ritual purity was paramount for the nation's atonement. The "fair mitre" and pure garments were essential for him to perform his duties according to Mosaic Law, as detailed in [Exodus 28](/exodus/28 "Exodus 28 - Priestly Garments").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Zechariah and the broader prophetic literature. The primary theme is **Divine Cleansing and Forgiveness**, as God actively removes sin and imputes righteousness, symbolized by the change of garments. This act also underscores **Restoration to Holy Service**, re-qualifying Joshua for his priestly duties after his defilement. It highlights **God's Sovereign Grace and Mercy**, demonstrating that salvation and restoration are not earned but freely given despite human unworthiness, silencing the accuser. Furthermore, the vision anticipates the **Messianic Hope**, as the cleansing of the High Priest foreshadows the ultimate work of the "Branch" who will "remove the iniquity of this land in a single day" ([Zechariah 3:9](/zechariah/3-9 "Zechariah 3:9 - Removal of Iniquity")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fair (Hebrew, _ṭâhôwr'_):** This word signifies purity in a comprehensive sense—physical, chemical, ceremonial, and moral. When applied to the mitre, it emphasizes the absolute ritual and spiritual cleanness required for the High Priest's office. It stands in stark contrast to the "filthy garments" previously worn by Joshua, highlighting the complete transformation from defilement to consecrated purity. The "fair mitre" is not merely aesthetically pleasing but intrinsically pure, reflecting God's holy standard.
* **Mitre (Hebrew, _tsânîyph'_):** This term refers specifically to the turban or head-dress worn by the High Priest. According to [Exodus 28:36-38](/exodus/28-36-38 "Exodus 28:36-38 - The Plate on the Mitre"), the high priestly mitre had a golden plate inscribed with "Holiness to the LORD" (קֹדֶשׁ לַיהוָה, _qodesh l'YHWH_), signifying his consecration and the holiness required for his role in bearing the iniquity of the holy things. Its placement on Joshua's head symbolizes his re-consecration and restoration to the full dignity and authority of his sacred office.
* **Clothed (Hebrew, _lâbash'_):** A primitive root meaning to wrap around, to put on a garment, or to clothe oneself or another. In this context, it describes the act of putting on the new, pure garments. This verb emphasizes the active, intentional clothing of Joshua by divine command. It's not merely a change of attire but an investiture, signifying a new status and identity granted by God, enabling him to fulfill his priestly functions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I said, Let them set a fair mitre upon his head."**: This clause reveals Zechariah's active participation and understanding within the vision. Having witnessed the command to remove the filthy garments and promise of new ones, the prophet interjects, specifically requesting the placement of the mitre. This shows his grasp of the High Priest's full regalia and the symbolic importance of the mitre for complete restoration and re-consecration to office. His request is not a suggestion but an eager affirmation of the divine will.
* **"So they set a fair mitre upon his head, and clothed him with garments."**: This clause describes the immediate and complete fulfillment of the divine command and Zechariah's request. The "they" refers to the attendants or angels who carry out the divine will. The action is swift and decisive, indicating the efficacy of God's word. The placement of the "fair mitre" and the clothing with "garments" (implying the full priestly attire) signify Joshua's complete re-qualification and re-investiture as High Priest, cleansed and made holy for service.
* **"And the angel of the LORD stood by."**: This final clause underscores the divine authority and oversight of the entire process. The Angel of the LORD, often understood as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, remains present, observing and validating the transformation. His continued presence signifies that this act of cleansing and restoration is not merely a ritual but a divinely orchestrated and ratified event, ensuring its legitimacy and profound spiritual significance.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 3:5 is rich in **Symbolism**. The "filthy garments" of Joshua represent the sin and defilement of Israel, while the "fair mitre" and new "garments" symbolize divine cleansing, imputed righteousness, and restoration to holy service. The mitre itself, bearing the inscription "Holiness to the LORD," is a powerful emblem of consecration. The narrative employs **Dramatic Irony** in the contrast between Satan's accusation and God's immediate and gracious act of cleansing. The prophet's interjection, "And I said," adds a touch of **Participatory Narrative**, drawing the reader into the urgency and significance of the moment. The swift action of "So they set... and clothed" demonstrates **Divine Efficacy**, highlighting God's immediate and powerful response to sin and His ability to bring about complete transformation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 3:5 profoundly illustrates God's initiative in cleansing and restoring His people, not based on their merit but on His sovereign grace. This vision demonstrates that God's forgiveness is comprehensive, not only removing the stain of sin but also re-qualifying individuals for holy service. The change from filthy garments to pure attire signifies the imputation of righteousness, a central theological concept where God attributes Christ's perfect righteousness to believers. This act of divine investiture empowers the defiled to stand pure before God, enabling them to fulfill their calling and mediate for others, pointing to the ultimate High Priest who would perfectly accomplish this mediation.

* [Isaiah 61:10](/isaiah/61-10 "Isaiah 61:10 - Garments of Salvation")
* [1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession and Cleansing")
* [Romans 3:21-24](/romans/3-21-24 "Romans 3:21-24 - Righteousness Through Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 3:5 offers profound comfort and challenge for believers today. Like Joshua, we often stand before God in our "filthy garments" of sin, burdened by our failures and the accusations of the enemy. Yet, this verse reminds us that God's grace is infinitely greater than our sin. He is eager to remove our defilement and clothe us in His righteousness, not because of what we have done, but because of His compassionate heart and the redemptive work of Christ. This divine cleansing is not merely a pardon; it is a complete restoration, empowering us to live lives of holiness and purpose. We are called to embrace this imputed righteousness, walking in the newness of life that God provides, confident in our standing before Him and equipped for the good works He has prepared for us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you feel most defiled or unworthy, like Joshua in his filthy garments?**
* **How does the image of God removing your "filthy garments" and clothing you in "fair" ones bring you comfort and hope?**
* **What does it mean practically to live in the "new garments" of righteousness that God has provided through Christ?**
* **How does understanding God's restorative grace empower you for service and worship in your daily life?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "I" who speaks in this verse, and who are "they" who set the mitre and clothe Joshua?**

Answer: The "I" who speaks in Zechariah 3:5 is the prophet Zechariah himself. This is a unique moment in the vision where Zechariah, moved by what he is witnessing, interjects his own request or affirmation, demonstrating his spiritual insight and alignment with God's redemptive plan. The "they" refers to the angelic attendants or servants of the Angel of the LORD who carry out the divine commands. These are not human agents but celestial beings who swiftly execute God's will, emphasizing the supernatural and divine origin of Joshua's cleansing and restoration.

**What is the significance of the "fair mitre" specifically, as opposed to just new garments?**

Answer: While the new garments signify overall purity and restoration to priestly function, the "fair mitre" (Hebrew: _tsânîyph_) holds particular significance. The mitre was the High Priest's distinctive head-dress, and according to [Exodus 28:36](/exodus/28-36 "Exodus 28:36 - The Holy Crown"), it bore a golden plate inscribed with "Holiness to the LORD." This inscription indicated that the High Priest was consecrated to God and bore the iniquity of the holy things, making atonement for the people. Therefore, the placement of a "fair" (pure, _ṭâhôwr_) mitre upon Joshua's head symbolizes his complete re-consecration, his re-establishment in a state of ritual and moral purity, and his fitness to represent a holy God to a sinful people, and a sinful people to a holy God. It signifies the restoration of his unique mediatorial role.

**Why is the "angel of the LORD" standing by throughout this process?**

Answer: The presence of the Angel of the LORD (often understood as a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ) throughout the vision in [Zechariah 3](/zechariah/3 "Zechariah 3 - The Cleansing of Joshua") is crucial. His standing by signifies His divine authority, oversight, and active involvement in Joshua's cleansing and restoration. He is not merely an observer but the one who rebukes Satan ([Zechariah 3:2](/zechariah/3-2 "Zechariah 3:2 - The Angel of the LORD Rebukes Satan")), commands the removal of the filthy garments ([Zechariah 3:4](/zechariah/3-4 "Zechariah 3:4 - Command for New Garments")), and ultimately ratifies the entire process. His presence ensures that the transformation is divinely ordained and effective, underscoring the grace and power of God in dealing with sin and establishing His servant.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 3:5 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Joshua, the High Priest, stands as a type of Christ, yet also as a representative of sinful humanity in need of cleansing. While Joshua's cleansing was a temporary, ritual act for a fallen priest, Jesus, our [great High Priest](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest"), is perfectly pure and without sin ([Hebrews 7:26-27](/hebrews/7-26-27 "Hebrews 7:26-27 - Christ's Perfect Priesthood")). He did not need to be cleansed, but through His perfect sacrifice on the cross, He became the source of our cleansing. The "fair mitre" and pure garments placed on Joshua foreshadow the perfect righteousness that Christ embodies and, more importantly, imputes to all who believe in Him. Just as Joshua was clothed in new garments, believers are clothed in the [righteousness of Christ](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Righteousness"), having their filthy garments of sin removed and replaced with the [robe of salvation](/isaiah/61-10 "Isaiah 61:10 - Garments of Salvation"). This divine exchange, where our sin is laid upon Him and His righteousness is given to us, is the essence of the New Covenant. Through Christ, we, a [royal priesthood](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood"), are made pure and fit for service, no longer standing condemned but fully restored and empowered to approach God's throne of grace with confidence ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Zechariah 6:11

Then take silver and gold, and make crowns, and set [them] upon the head of Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest;

Exodus 29:6

And thou shalt put the mitre upon his head, and put the holy crown upon the mitre.

Revelation 5:8

And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four [and] twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.

Revelation 5:14

And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four [and] twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

Leviticus 8:6

And Moses brought Aaron and his sons, and washed them with water.

Leviticus 8:9

And he put the mitre upon his head; also upon the mitre, [even] upon his forefront, did he put the golden plate, the holy crown; as the LORD commanded Moses.

Revelation 4:10

The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,