The prophet Zechariah was active during 520-518 BC, after the exile in Babylon and before the Second Temple was built. The Prophet's book carries clear eschatological features and conveys a message about the restoration of Jerusalem. A specific feature of Zechariah 3 is the presence of the angel of the Lord and Satan standing on his right side. During this time the Israelites had knowledge of Babylonian culture and religion, where the battle myth occurs and a dualistic view of God. Where the good and the evil are in conflict with each other. I therefore wonder if this awareness may have characterized Zechariah's night vision in chapter 3. In this essay, I will examine Chapter 3, where the reader meets the high priest Joshua, the angel of the Lord, and the Prosecutor. With the hope of being able to contribute to a deeper understanding of Zechariah 3's purpose and message.

This thesis deals with the ostraca from Samaria, one of the most significant archeological discovery from the point of view of religious life in northern Israel. The thesis briefly introduces the religious world of Israel Region (Egypt, Mesopotamia and Canaan) and of Israel itself. The main focus of this thesis relates to the Samaria ostraca and the main emphasis is placed on the names of recipients and owners that can be found in ostraca trees which are consequently compared to the religious situation in Israel during 8th century BC (the approximate period to which the formation of ostraca are dated). Final chapters try to complete the main purpose which is outlined in the main part of the thesis (Dating of ostraca, Kuntillet Adžrud, Bull in Old Orient). It tries to seek for possible parallels between biblical and historical texts, archeological discoveries and the ostraca themselves. In the Annex can be found tables from years 9, 10 and 15 which contains number of ostrakon, names of owners and recipicients. In conclusion of the thesis is talking about polytheism in northern Israel at 8th century BC.