זכריה, פרק ב׳, פסוק ה׳

Following visions of exile and vengeance against the nations that oppressed Israel, a fourth vision emerges, bringing a message of comfort, settlement, and rebuilding. Taking place as a night vision [אבן עזרא], the scene specifically heralds the resettlement of Jerusalem [אברבנאל].

The prophet looks up and sees a figure walking [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This figure is actually a new angel, distinct from the one who had been speaking with the prophet previously [רד״ק]. In the angel's hand is a long rope typically used by land surveyors [ביאור שטיינזלץ], serving as a measuring line [מצודת ציון]. The purpose of this tool is to measure the exact length and width of the future walls of Jerusalem that are destined to be built [רש״י, מצודת דוד].

There are differing perspectives regarding when this vision is meant to be fulfilled. One approach suggests that the measuring act points to an imminent historical event, signaling that Jerusalem's walls will soon be rebuilt under the royal permission of King Artaxerxes [מלבי״ם]. Conversely, another perspective views this as a prophecy for the distant future, pointing toward the Messianic era. In this light, the scene closely mirrors Ezekiel's vision, where an angel is also seen measuring the dimensions of Jerusalem [רד״ק].