Old Testament
Zechariah 11:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
This is what the LORD my God said: 'Tend the flock destined for slaughter.'
Compare translations
Thus saith the LORD my God; Feed the flock of the slaughter;
What Zechariah 11:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Zechariah 11:4, God instructs His messenger to care for the people who are in danger, symbolically referred to as a flock destined for slaughter. This imagery highlights the vulnerability of the people and the impending judgment they face. The term 'flock' represents the community of Israel, while 'slaughter' indicates the dire consequences of their disobedience and the threats they encounter. The verse emphasizes the responsibility of leaders to protect and guide their people, especially during times of crisis. It serves as a reminder that God is aware of the suffering of His people and calls for compassionate leadership. The call to 'tend' suggests nurturing and providing for the needs of the flock, which is crucial for their survival. This passage sets the stage for understanding the role of shepherds in the spiritual and physical well-being of their communities, urging them to act with care and responsibility.
How to apply Zechariah 11:4 to your life
This verse encourages leaders and caregivers to be attentive to those they serve, especially in difficult times. It reminds us to act with compassion and responsibility, ensuring that we support and protect those who are vulnerable or in need, reflecting God's love and care in our actions.
Curated for this public verse page. Zechariah 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 Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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 Zechariah 11:4
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 Zechariah 11:4
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 11:4 mean?
Zechariah 11:4 conveys God's command to care for the people who are in danger, symbolized as a flock destined for slaughter. It highlights the need for leaders to protect and nurture their community, especially in times of crisis.
What is the meaning of 'flock' in Zechariah 11:4?
In Zechariah 11:4, 'flock' refers to the community of Israel, representing the people who are vulnerable and facing judgment. This imagery emphasizes their need for guidance and protection from their leaders.
What does 'tend the flock' imply in this verse?
The phrase 'tend the flock' in Zechariah 11:4 implies a responsibility for leaders to nurture, support, and care for their people. It suggests that leaders should be attentive to the needs of those they serve, especially during challenging times.
What themes are present in Zechariah 11:4?
Zechariah 11:4 includes themes of divine instruction, leadership responsibility, the vulnerability of the flock, impending judgment, and the importance of compassionate care for the community.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.