זכריה, פרק ג׳, פסוק ה׳

In a unique prophetic vision, the prophet transitions from a passive observer to an active participant, seeking to complete the purification of Joshua the High Priest. After Joshua's soiled garments are removed, the prophet intervenes to ensure the full restoration of his spiritual and leadership status. The prophet himself is the speaker in this moment [רש״י, שטיינזלץ]. The primary approach among commentators is that this statement is a prayer and a plea for mercy on behalf of Joshua [רש״י, מצודת דוד], directed to the angel after the prophet witnesses the removal of the High Priest's sins [מלבי״ם, רד״ק]. However, other perspectives exist. Some suggest the prophet did not speak aloud, but rather thought in his heart how fitting it would be to complete Joshua's attire, and his thought was instantly fulfilled [אבן עזרא]. Conversely, another view questions both of these approaches, asking why the prophet needed to add to the angel's instructions and why the head covering was not included in the initial command to change garments [אברבנאל].

The request focuses on placing a clean, clear turban on Joshua's head [מצודת ציון]. This turban is a headpiece made of a long fabric wrapped around the head [מצודת ציון, שטיינזלץ]. Wearing it is not merely a technical action, but a profound symbol of Joshua's return to the High Priesthood and his re-initiation into the role [מלבי״ם, רד״ק]. It also serves as a guarantee that the crown of the priesthood will remain an inheritance for his descendants [מצודת דוד]. A unique interpretation distinguishes between a holy turban, which represents the priesthood, and a pure turban, which represents kingship. By specifically requesting a pure turban, the vision hints at the era of the Second Temple, a time when High Priests also assumed the role of kings [אהבת יהונתן].

Following the request, the prophet's prayer is immediately answered [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. The clean turban is placed on his head, and he is dressed in new garments. Many commentators agree that the description of this dressing does not follow a strict chronological order. Instead, Joshua was already dressed in fine garments before the turban was placed on his head [אבן עזרא, רד״ק, אברבנאל]. Putting on the rest of the High Priest's garments represents the revelation of Joshua's merits [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. Throughout this entire process, the angel of God does not leave. He remains present [מצודת דוד, רד״ק], standing by and carefully supervising the event to ensure that everything is carried out properly [שטיינזלץ].