6. Zerubbabel. For the identity and work of Zerubbabel see Ezra 2:1 to 4:5; see also 1073. Zerubbabel here represents the civil leadership and administration, as Joshua (Zech. 3:1) represents the religious leadership of the nation.
By my spirit. The oil furnished by the olive trees ( 3) typified the Holy Spirit (see COL 408). Divine grace alone could overcome all the obstacles that confronted the rebuilders (see IV, 1073) of Jerusalem. Zerubbabel and his companions were depressed by their feeble ability and scant resources to carry on the work of restoration against the opposition of their enemies. The vision showed that God’s purposes for Israel would be attained not by human “might” or “power,” but by His own Spirit and His own power.