Old Testament
Ezekiel 34:23
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, God promises to appoint a single shepherd to guide His people, referring to His servant David.
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
I will place one shepherd over them — my servant David — and he will feed them. He will care for them and be their shepherd.
And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God promises to appoint a single shepherd to guide His people, referring to His servant David. This shepherd will not only provide for their needs but will also protect and nurture them. The imagery of a shepherd is powerful, symbolizing care, guidance, and leadership. Just as a shepherd knows each sheep, this leader will have a personal connection with the people. The promise highlights God's commitment to ensuring that His people are not left to wander aimlessly. Instead, they will have someone who understands them and is dedicated to their well-being. This shepherd will embody the qualities of compassion and responsibility, ensuring that the community thrives under his care. Ultimately, this verse reassures us that God is actively involved in our lives, providing guidance through leaders who genuinely care for us. It reminds us of the importance of having trustworthy figures in our lives who can lead us with love and integrity, reflecting God's own heart for His people.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ezekiel 34:23 to your life
Consider who guides you in your life. Seek out leaders who embody care and integrity, just as the shepherd does in this passage. Reflect on how you can also be a source of support and guidance for others in your community. Your actions can make a difference in someone's life today. Lead with love and compassion, just as the shepherd does for his flock.
Curated for this public verse page. Ezekiel Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ezekiel 34:23 mean?
Ezekiel 34:23 means that God will appoint a single leader, referred to as His servant David, to guide and care for His people. This verse emphasizes the importance of having a compassionate and responsible leader who will nurture and protect the community.
What is the significance of the shepherd in Ezekiel 34:23?
The shepherd in Ezekiel 34:23 symbolizes guidance, care, and leadership. This imagery highlights the personal connection between the leader and the people, ensuring their needs are met and they are not left to wander aimlessly.
Who is the shepherd mentioned in Ezekiel 34:23?
The shepherd mentioned in Ezekiel 34:23 is identified as God's servant David. This reference signifies a leader who will embody the qualities of compassion and responsibility for the well-being of the people.
How can I apply Ezekiel 34:23 in my life?
You can apply Ezekiel 34:23 by seeking out leaders in your life who demonstrate care and integrity. Additionally, consider how you can be a supportive figure for others, leading with love and compassion in your community.
The Book of Ezekiel
Ezekiel 1: Visions of God
The word of the LORD comes to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, by the river Chebar in the land of the Chaldeans. He sees visions of God as the heavens open. A great cloud comes from the north with a fire flashing continually and brightness around it, and from the midst appears something like glowing metal. From the fire emerge four living creatures, each with the likeness of a man. Each has four faces and four wings, and their legs are straight with feet like a calf's foot, shining like polished brass. Their faces are those of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, and their wings are joined one to another as they move straight forward without turning.
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