Zechariah 6:10

KJV

Take of [them of] the captivity, [even] of Heldai, of Tobijah, and of Jedaiah, which are come from Babylon, and come thou the same day, and go into the house of Josiah the son of Zephaniah;

KJV (with Strong's)

Take {H3947} of them of the captivity {H1473}, even of Heldai {H2469}, of Tobijah {H2900}, and of Jedaiah {H3048}, which are come {H935} from Babylon {H894}, and come {H935} thou the same day {H3117}, and go {H935} into the house {H1004} of Josiah {H2977} the son {H1121} of Zephaniah {H6846};

Complete Jewish Bible

"Take [gifts] from the exiles of Heldai, Toviyah, and Y'da'yah, who have arrived from Bavel; then you, go to the house of Yoshiyah the son of Tz'fanyah.

Berean Standard Bible

“Take an offering from the exiles—from Heldai, Tobijah, and Jedaiah, who have arrived from Babylon—and go that same day to the house of Josiah son of Zephaniah.

American Standard Version

Take of them of the captivity, even of Heldai, of Tobijah, and of Jedaiah; and come thou the same day, and go into the house of Josiah the son of Zephaniah, whither they are come from Babylon;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 6:10 delivers a precise divine command to the prophet Zechariah, instructing him to receive three specific individuals—Heldai, Tobijah, and Jedaiah—who have returned from the Babylonian exile. This meeting is to occur "the same day" at the house of Josiah, the son of Zephaniah, highlighting the urgency and significance of their arrival. This seemingly simple directive is a crucial prelude to a profound symbolic act: the making of crowns for Joshua the high priest, an event that powerfully foreshadows the coming Messiah, who would uniquely combine the offices of King and Priest.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 6:10 marks a transition within the book of Zechariah. It follows a series of eight night visions (Zechariah 1:7-6:8) that provided comfort and assurance to the post-exilic community regarding God's presence and plans for Jerusalem's restoration. Immediately after this verse, the narrative shifts from visions to a direct prophetic action: the crowning of Joshua (Zechariah 6:11-14). This transition underscores the practical and immediate implications of God's prophetic word, moving from symbolic revelation to concrete instruction and foreshadowing. The men mentioned in this verse are instrumental in providing the materials for this significant symbolic act.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Zechariah 6:10 are set in the post-exilic period, around 520 BC, roughly 18 years after the first wave of Jewish exiles returned from Babylon under Zerubbabel and Joshua. The community in Jerusalem faced significant challenges, including economic hardship, opposition from surrounding peoples, and a lack of enthusiasm for rebuilding the temple. Prophets like Zechariah and Haggai were raised up by God to stir the people to complete the temple, which had stalled after the foundation was laid (see [Ezra 3:8-13](/ezra/3-8-13 "Ezra 3:8-13 - Laying the Temple Foundation")). The returnees from Babylon, like Heldai, Tobijah, and Jedaiah, represented the ongoing connection between the diaspora Jewish communities and Jerusalem, often bringing financial and material support for the temple project, demonstrating their continued loyalty and faith.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes in Zechariah and the broader prophetic literature. It emphasizes **Divine Instruction and Obedience**, as God gives a direct, urgent command to His prophet, highlighting the necessity of prompt response to the divine will. The presence of the returnees from Babylon underscores the theme of **Restoration and the Remnant**, signifying God's faithfulness in bringing His people back from exile, fulfilling prophecies like those found in [Jeremiah 29:10-14](/jeremiah/29-10-14 "Jeremiah 29:10-14 - God's Plans for Restoration"). Furthermore, the verse serves as a **Preparation for Messianic Prophecy**, setting the stage for the highly symbolic crowning of Joshua, which directly points to the future coming of the "Branch," a clear messianic title (as seen in [Zechariah 3:8](/zechariah/3-8 "Zechariah 3:8 - The Branch, God's Servant")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Take (Hebrew, _lâqach'_):** This primitive root verb (H3947) signifies "to take" in a wide variety of applications, including to accept, bring, fetch, receive, or seize. In Zechariah 6:10, it is a direct imperative, a command from God to Zechariah to actively receive or fetch these specific individuals. This emphasizes the divine initiative and the prophet's role as an obedient agent in God's plan.
* **captivity (Hebrew, _gôwlâh'_):** This noun (H1473) refers to "exile" or, concretely and collectively, "exiles" or "captives." Its use here specifically identifies Heldai, Tobijah, and Jedaiah as part of the community that endured the Babylonian exile and has now returned. This term underscores their identity as the faithful remnant, a testament to God's preservation of His people despite their dispersion.
* **day (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** This common noun (H3117) refers to a "day" in various senses, from sunrise to sunset, or a defined period of time. The phrase "the same day" (Hebrew: *hay-yôm*) in this context emphasizes immediate action and divine urgency. It suggests that the timing of this meeting is critical and divinely appointed, not to be delayed, highlighting the importance of the subsequent symbolic act.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Take of [them of] the captivity, [even] of Heldai, of Tobijah, and of Jedaiah,"**: This opening clause is a direct command from the Lord to Zechariah. It specifies the individuals to be received: Heldai, Tobijah, and Jedaiah. The phrase "of the captivity" identifies them as part of the Jewish community that had been exiled to Babylon and has now returned, highlighting their significance as representatives of the diaspora and their connection to the ongoing restoration efforts in Jerusalem.
* **"which are come from Babylon,"**: This phrase reiterates the origin of these men, emphasizing their journey from the land of their exile back to Judah. Their return from Babylon signifies the fulfillment of prophetic promises regarding the end of the seventy-year captivity and the re-gathering of God's people. Their presence underscores the reality of God's redemptive work in bringing His scattered flock home.
* **"and come thou the same day,"**: This clause reinforces the urgency of the divine command. Zechariah is not to delay but to act immediately upon their arrival. This immediacy suggests that the purpose of their visit and the subsequent actions are time-sensitive and crucial to God's unfolding plan for His people and the temple.
* **"and go into the house of Josiah the son of Zephaniah;"**: This final instruction provides the specific location for the meeting. Josiah, son of Zephaniah, is identified as the host, indicating that his house would serve as the venue for this significant encounter. The mention of a specific individual and location adds a layer of concrete detail to the divine directive, grounding the prophetic event in a tangible reality.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 6:10 employs several literary devices to convey its message and set the stage for the subsequent prophecy. The most prominent is the **Imperative Mood**, seen in the direct commands "Take," "come," and "go." This grammatical structure underscores the divine authority behind the instruction and the necessity of immediate obedience from the prophet. There is also significant **Symbolism** embedded within the verse and its broader context. The returnees from Babylon symbolize the faithful remnant of Israel, whose presence signifies God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises of restoration. Their journey from Babylon, the place of exile and judgment, to Jerusalem, the city of God's presence, is a powerful symbol of spiritual return and renewal. Furthermore, the specific timing, "the same day," carries symbolic weight, emphasizing divine urgency and the precise orchestration of God's plan. The entire instruction serves as a **Prophetic Instruction**, a direct divine directive to a prophet, which is a common literary feature in prophetic books, signaling a moment of divine intervention and the unfolding of God's will through human agency.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 6:10 is a testament to God's meticulous providence, demonstrating His active involvement in the details of human history and His use of specific individuals to accomplish His grand purposes. The arrival of Heldai, Tobijah, and Jedaiah from Babylon, bearing gifts (as implied by the subsequent verses), highlights the importance of the diaspora community's continued connection and contribution to the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple. This verse underscores the theme of divine timing and the necessity of immediate obedience to God's commands, as Zechariah is instructed to act "the same day." The entire episode serves as a vital prelude to the symbolic crowning of Joshua, which profoundly foreshadows the coming Messiah, who would uniquely combine the roles of King and Priest, bringing ultimate restoration and peace.

* [Ezra 1:1-4](/ezra/1-1-4 "Ezra 1:1-4 - Cyrus's Decree for Return")
* [Isaiah 43:5-7](/isaiah/43-5-7 "Isaiah 43:5-7 - God Gathers His People from Exile")
* [Haggai 1:1-8](/haggai/1-1-8 "Haggai 1:1-8 - Exhortation to Rebuild the Temple")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 6:10 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, emphasizing the importance of attentiveness to God's specific call and the readiness to respond with immediate obedience. Just as Zechariah was commanded to "come the same day," we are called to be prompt in our spiritual duties and responsive to divine appointments, recognizing that God often orchestrates seemingly ordinary encounters for extraordinary purposes. This verse also reminds us that God uses diverse individuals, even those from distant places or different backgrounds, to contribute to His kingdom work. The returnees from Babylon, bringing their resources, symbolize the value of every believer's unique gifts and contributions to the collective body of Christ. Our faithful participation, whether through financial support, practical service, or simply being available, plays a vital role in God's ongoing redemptive narrative, culminating in the ultimate hope found in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Zechariah's immediate obedience challenge my own responsiveness to God's promptings in my life?**
* **In what ways might God be calling me to "take" or receive individuals or resources He has sent for His purposes?**
* **How can I better recognize and value the contributions of those who come from different "places" or backgrounds within the body of Christ?**

### FAQ

**Who are Heldai, Tobijah, and Jedaiah, and why are they important?**

Answer: Heldai, Tobijah, and Jedaiah are three specific individuals who have returned from the Babylonian exile. While not extensively detailed in the biblical narrative beyond this passage, their importance lies in their role as representatives of the Jewish diaspora community and their direct involvement in God's prophetic plan. They likely brought silver and gold from Babylon, which, as revealed in the very next verses ([Zechariah 6:11](/zechariah/6-11 "Zechariah 6:11 - The Command to Make Crowns")), was to be used to make crowns for Joshua the high priest. Their presence symbolizes the continued connection and contribution of the exiles to the restoration efforts in Jerusalem, demonstrating God's faithfulness in gathering His people and using their resources for His glory.

**What is the significance of the command to meet them "the same day"?**

Answer: The phrase "the same day" emphasizes the urgency and divine timing of this meeting. It underscores that God's plan is unfolding precisely and requires immediate action from His prophet. This immediacy highlights the critical nature of the event that follows—the symbolic crowning of Joshua—which is central to Zechariah's messianic prophecies. It teaches us about the importance of prompt obedience to God's specific instructions and the recognition that divine appointments often have a precise and crucial timing.

**What happens after Zechariah receives these men at Josiah's house?**

Answer: Immediately following this instruction, Zechariah is commanded to take the silver and gold brought by these men and make crowns. These crowns are then placed on the head of Joshua the high priest ([Zechariah 6:11](/zechariah/6-11 "Zechariah 6:11 - The Crowning of Joshua")). This act is highly symbolic, as Joshua, the high priest, is crowned not as a king, but as a figure who foreshadows the coming Messiah, referred to as "the Branch," who will combine the offices of King and Priest ([Zechariah 6:12-13](/zechariah/6-12-13 "Zechariah 6:12-13 - The Prophecy of the Branch")). The crowns are then to be kept in the temple as a memorial.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 6:10, though seemingly a simple instruction, serves as a pivotal moment in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, pointing directly to the person and work of Jesus Christ. The gathering of the returned exiles, bringing their resources, foreshadows the universal nature of Christ's kingdom, where people from "every nation, tribe, people, and language" will gather to worship Him ([Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9-10 "Revelation 7:9-10 - The Multitude from Every Nation")). The immediate command to Zechariah to receive these men and the subsequent crowning of Joshua the high priest (as detailed in the following verses) is a powerful type and shadow of Christ. Joshua, as high priest, is crowned, uniquely prefiguring Jesus, who fulfills the dual office of both King and Priest. He is the true "Branch" prophesied by Zechariah ([Zechariah 3:8](/zechariah/3-8 "Zechariah 3:8 - The Branch, God's Servant"); [Zechariah 6:12](/zechariah/6-12 "Zechariah 6:12 - The Branch Who Will Build the Temple")), the one who would "build the temple of the Lord" (not a physical temple, but His Church, His body, as seen in [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone of the Church")). Jesus, our great High Priest, offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, entering the heavenly sanctuary once for all ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). He is also the King of Kings, whose reign is eternal and whose kingdom will have no end ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"); [Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32-33 "Luke 1:32-33 - The Eternal Kingdom of Jesus")). Thus, Zechariah 6:10, by setting the stage for Joshua's crowning, ultimately directs our gaze to Christ, the true King-Priest who brings ultimate salvation and builds God's eternal spiritual temple.

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

Ezra 7:14

Forasmuch as thou art sent of the king, and of his seven counsellors, to enquire concerning Judah and Jerusalem, according to the law of thy God which [is] in thine hand;

Ezra 7:16

And all the silver and gold that thou canst find in all the province of Babylon, with the freewill offering of the people, and of the priests, offering willingly for the house of their God which [is] in Jerusalem:

Ezra 8:26

I even weighed unto their hand six hundred and fifty talents of silver, and silver vessels an hundred talents, [and] of gold an hundred talents;

Ezra 8:30

So took the priests and the Levites the weight of the silver, and the gold, and the vessels, to bring [them] to Jerusalem unto the house of our God.

Romans 15:25

But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.

Romans 15:26

For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.

Jeremiah 28:6

Even the prophet Jeremiah said, Amen: the LORD do so: the LORD perform thy words which thou hast prophesied, to bring again the vessels of the LORD'S house, and all that is carried away captive, from Babylon into this place.