Lives of Scripture

Joshua son of Jehozadak was high priest among the Jewish exiles who returned to Jerusalem under governor Zerubbabel, and together the two led the effort to rebuild the temple after the exile. When the work stalled, the prophet Haggai delivered God's word directly to Joshua and Zerubbabel, calling them to "be strong" and resume building, with the promise that the LORD was with them (Haggai 1:1-14; 2:2-4). Zechariah records a striking vision of Joshua standing before the angel of the LORD, dressed in filthy garments, with "Satan standing at his right hand to accuse him" (Zechariah 3:1). The LORD rebukes the accuser and declares Joshua "a brand plucked from the fire," then commands his filthy clothes removed and clean, festive garments and a turban put on him, symbolizing his iniquity taken away (3:2-5). Joshua is charged to walk in God's ways in exchange for continued priestly service, and told that he and his fellow priests are "symbolic of things to come" -- specifically of God's servant called "the Branch" (3:8-9). Later Zechariah is told to place an ornate crown on Joshua's head, unusual for a priest, pointing to a coming figure who will unite the offices of priest and king, building the LORD's temple and ruling on His throne (6:11-13). Joshua's cleansing and crowning form one of the Old Testament's clearest priest-king pictures anticipating a Messiah who would hold both roles at once.