King James Version

What Does Zechariah 11:8 Mean?

“Three shepherds also I cut off in one month; and my soul lothed them, and their soul also abhorred me. lothed: Heb. was straightened for them”

Context

For I will no more pity the inhabitants of the land, saith the LORD: but, lo, I will deliver the men every one into his neighbour's hand, and into the hand of his king: and they shall smite the land, and out of their hand I will not deliver them. deliver: Heb. make to be found

And I will feed the flock of slaughter, even you, O poor of the flock. And I took unto me two staves; the one I called Beauty, and the other I called Bands; and I fed the flock. even: or, verily the poor Bands: or, Binders

Three shepherds also I cut off in one month; and my soul lothed them, and their soul also abhorred me. lothed: Heb. was straightened for them

Then said I, I will not feed you: that that dieth, let it die; and that that is to be cut off, let it be cut off; and let the rest eat every one the flesh of another. another: Heb. his fellow, or, neighbour

And I took my staff, even Beauty, and cut it asunder, that I might break my covenant which I had made with all the people.

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Commentary

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**7. As they were increased--**in numbers and power. Compare Ho 4:6, "thy children," to which their "increase" in numbers refers. **so they sinned--**(Compare Ho 10:1 and Ho 13:6). **will I change their glory into shame--**that is, I will strip them of all they now glory in (their numbers and power), and give them shame instead. A just retribution: as they changed their glory into shame, by idolatry (Psa 106:20; Jr 2:11; Ro 1:23; Php 3:19).

Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. Public Domain.

Historical Context

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

Theological Significance

Zechariah 11:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.