King James Version

What Does Ezekiel 34:7 Mean?

Ezekiel 34:7 in the King James Version says “Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of the LORD; — study this verse from Ezekiel chapter 34 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of the LORD;

Ezekiel 34:7 · KJV


Context

5

And they were scattered, because there is no shepherd: and they became meat to all the beasts of the field, when they were scattered. because: or, without a shepherd

6

My sheep wandered through all the mountains, and upon every high hill: yea, my flock was scattered upon all the face of the earth, and none did search or seek after them.

7

Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of the LORD;

8

As I live, saith the Lord GOD, surely because my flock became a prey, and my flock became meat to every beast of the field, because there was no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for my flock, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not my flock;

9

Therefore, O ye shepherds, hear the word of the LORD;


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This passage employs the shepherd metaphor to contrast failed human leaders with God as true Shepherd of Israel. Ancient Near Eastern kings commonly used shepherd imagery for their rule; Ezekiel exposes how Israel's leaders failed this calling by exploiting rather than caring for God's flock. From a Reformed perspective, this anticipates Christ as the Good Shepherd (John 10) who lays down His life for the sheep, and calls undershepherds (pastors/elders) to feed and protect God's flock (1 Peter 5:1-4). True shepherds serve the sheep's welfare, not their own interests, demonstrating Christlike servant leadership.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

This passage was delivered during the Babylonian exile (c. 586-571 BCE) after Jerusalem's destruction. The exiled community grappled with theological and practical questions: Why had judgment come? Would restoration occur? How should they live in exile? The historical context of ancient Near Eastern covenant patterns, conquest and exile practices, and prophetic literature provides essential background. Archaeological discoveries from this period illuminate the exile's realities and the return's historical fulfillment. Yet Ezekiel's prophecies extend beyond immediate historical context to find fuller realization in Christ and the church, with ultimate consummation in the new creation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen your understanding of God's character, purposes, or ways of working in history?
  2. What specific application does this passage call you to make in your current circumstances or spiritual life?
  3. How does this Old Testament passage illuminate New Testament teaching about Christ, salvation, or the church?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
לָכֵ֣ן1 of 6
H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

רֹעִ֔ים2 of 6

Therefore ye shepherds

H7462

to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie

שִׁמְע֖וּ3 of 6

hear

H8085

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

אֶת4 of 6
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

דְּבַ֥ר5 of 6

the word

H1697

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

יְהוָֽה׃6 of 6

of the LORD

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Ezekiel. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Ezekiel 34:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Ezekiel 34:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study