Joshua the High Priest First High Priest of the Second Temple

Joshua (also called Jeshua) was the first high priest to serve after the Babylonian exile. He returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel in 538 BC and played a crucial role in rebuilding the altar and restoring sacrificial worship. In Zechariah's vision, Joshua stood before the angel of the Lord in filthy garments, symbolizing Israel's sin. God removed his filth, clothed him in rich robes, and set a clean turban on his head - a powerful picture of divine grace. Zechariah then crowned Joshua, symbolically pointing to the coming Messiah who would unite the offices of priest and king.

1. Return from Exile538 BC

   Joshua returns to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel as high priest.

   EZR 2:2, 3:2

2. Altar Rebuilt537 BC

   Joshua helps rebuild the altar and restore sacrifices.

   EZR 3:2-6

3. Zechariah's Visionc. 519 BC

   Joshua appears in Zechariah's vision, cleansed and crowned symbolically.

   ZEC 3:1-10, 6:11

4. Temple Completion516 BC

   Joshua serves as high priest when the Second Temple is completed.

   EZR 6:15