Biblical Reference:
The Vision of the Woman in a Basket is found in the book of Zechariah, specifically in Zechariah 5:5-11. This vision is one of a series of eight visions given to the prophet Zechariah, which are recorded in the first six chapters of the book. These visions were intended to encourage the Jewish exiles who had returned from Babylon to rebuild the temple and restore Jerusalem.

Context and Content:
In Zechariah 5:5-11, the prophet Zechariah is shown a vision by an angel. The angel instructs Zechariah to look up and see what is going forth. Zechariah observes a basket, which the angel identifies as an ephah, a unit of measurement used for dry goods. The angel explains that this basket represents the iniquity of the people throughout the land.

As Zechariah continues to watch, a lead cover is lifted from the basket, revealing a woman sitting inside. The angel identifies the woman as "Wickedness." The woman is then thrust back into the basket, and the lead cover is replaced to seal it. Subsequently, two women with wings like those of a stork appear. They lift the basket between heaven and earth and carry it to the land of Shinar, where a house is to be built for it. Once the house is prepared, the basket will be set there on its base.

Symbolism and Interpretation:
The vision of the woman in a basket is rich with symbolic meaning. The basket, or ephah, represents commerce and trade, suggesting that the iniquity being addressed is related to economic sin, such as dishonesty in trade or materialism. The woman, identified as "Wickedness," personifies the sin and moral corruption prevalent among the people.

The lead cover signifies the containment and suppression of wickedness, indicating that God is aware of the sin and is taking measures to control and ultimately remove it. The two women with stork-like wings symbolize agents of divine judgment and purification. Storks, being unclean birds according to Levitical law (Leviticus 11:19), emphasize the unclean nature of the sin being transported.

The destination of the basket, the land of Shinar, is significant as it is associated with Babylon, a place historically linked with rebellion against God and idolatry (Genesis 11:1-9). By sending the basket to Shinar, the vision suggests the removal of wickedness from the land of Israel and its return to a place synonymous with sin and opposition to God.

Theological Implications:
The vision underscores God's commitment to purifying His people and His land. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin and His determination to cleanse His people from iniquity. The removal of wickedness to Shinar symbolizes the separation of God's people from sin, aligning with the broader biblical theme of holiness and sanctification.

This vision also foreshadows the ultimate judgment and eradication of sin, pointing to the eschatological hope of a future where God's kingdom is fully established, and righteousness prevails. It encourages believers to pursue holiness and trust in God's sovereign plan to deal with sin and restore His creation.