Old Testament
Zechariah 11:16
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For I am about to raise up a shepherd in the land who will not care for those who are cut off, will not seek the young one, will not heal the injured, or feed those who stand still. Instead, he will eat the flesh of the fat and tear their claws apart.
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For, lo, I will raise up a shepherd in the land, which shall not visit those that be cut off, neither shall seek the young one, nor heal that that is broken, nor feed that that standeth still: but he shall eat the flesh of the fat, and tear their claws in pieces.
What Zechariah 11:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Zechariah 11:16, God speaks of raising a shepherd who will neglect the needs of the people. This shepherd will not care for the weak, the young, or the injured, but will instead exploit them for his own gain. The imagery of eating the flesh and tearing apart suggests a ruthless and selfish leader who prioritizes his own desires over the welfare of the flock. This verse serves as a warning about the dangers of poor leadership and the consequences of having leaders who do not genuinely care for their people. It highlights the importance of compassion and responsibility in leadership roles, contrasting the ideal shepherd who protects and nurtures with one who harms and neglects. This passage can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate good shepherd, Jesus Christ, who cares for His flock with love and sacrifice, unlike the selfish leaders described here.
How to apply Zechariah 11:16 to your life
This verse reminds us to be discerning about our leaders and to seek those who genuinely care for the well-being of others. In our own lives, we should strive to be compassionate and responsible, ensuring we support and uplift those around us rather than exploiting them for personal gain.
Curated for this public verse page. Zechariah Summary
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Keep studying Zechariah 11:16
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At a Glance — the Book of Zechariah
- Author
- Zechariah the prophet
- Written
- Around 520-480 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy and apocalyptic
- Original Audience
- Post-exilic Jews
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Zechariah 11:16 mean?
Zechariah 11:16 describes a shepherd who neglects and exploits the people instead of caring for them. This verse highlights the dangers of poor leadership, contrasting it with the ideal of a compassionate leader.
What is the significance of the shepherd in Zechariah 11:16?
The shepherd in Zechariah 11:16 symbolizes a leader who is selfish and uncaring, failing to protect or nurture the vulnerable. This imagery serves as a warning against leaders who prioritize their own interests over the welfare of those they lead.
What does 'eating the flesh' mean in Zechariah 11:16?
The phrase 'eating the flesh' in Zechariah 11:16 suggests exploitation and harm, indicating that the shepherd will take advantage of the people rather than caring for them. It emphasizes the ruthless nature of poor leadership.
How does Zechariah 11:16 relate to good leadership?
Zechariah 11:16 contrasts poor leadership with the ideal of a good shepherd, who is expected to care for and protect the flock. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and responsibility in leadership roles.
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