Old Testament
Ezekiel 34:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I will place one shepherd over them — my servant David — and he will feed them. He will care for them and be their shepherd.
Compare translations
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.
What Ezekiel 34:23 means
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.
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
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Ezekiel 34:23
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Ezekiel 34:23
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Ezekiel
- Author
- Ezekiel the prophet
- Written
- Around 590 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
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.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.