Ezekiel 34:15

KJV

I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD.

KJV (with Strong's)

I will feed {H7462} my flock {H6629}, and I will cause them to lie down {H7257}, saith {H5002} the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yes, I will pasture my sheep; and I will let them rest" says Adonai ELOHIM.

Berean Standard Bible

I will tend My flock and make them lie down, declares the Lord GOD.

American Standard Version

I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ezekiel 34:15 encapsulates a profound divine promise from the Lord GOD, declaring His direct and personal intervention to shepherd His people, Israel, in stark contrast to the failed and exploitative human leaders. This verse powerfully conveys God's unwavering commitment to provide comprehensive care, sustenance, and security for His flock, ensuring their well-being and leading them into a state of peaceful rest, thereby initiating a restoration of their spiritual and physical flourishing.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ezekiel 34 marks a pivotal shift in the prophecy, moving from pronouncements of judgment against Judah and surrounding nations to a powerful declaration of God's restorative purposes for His covenant people. The preceding verses (Ezekiel 34:1-10) deliver a scathing indictment against the corrupt "shepherds" (leaders) of Israel—kings, priests, and prophets—who have exploited, scattered, and utterly failed to care for God's "flock" (the people). Following this condemnation, verses 11-14 announce God's personal resolve to seek out His lost sheep, rescue them from dispersion, and bring them back to their own land. Verse 15, therefore, serves as a direct continuation and amplification of this divine promise, detailing *how* God will care for His flock once gathered, providing nourishment and a secure place of rest. This promise of divine shepherdhood culminates in the anticipation of a righteous Davidic king, the Messiah, in [Ezekiel 34:23-24](/ezekiel/34-23-24 "Ezekiel 34:23-24 - The Promise of One Shepherd, David").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy of Ezekiel was delivered during the traumatic period of the Babylonian exile (circa 593-571 BC). The people of Israel were scattered, subjugated, and suffering, a direct consequence of their disobedience and, critically, the failure of their kings, priests, and prophets—the very "shepherds" Ezekiel condemns. In the ancient Near East, the imagery of a shepherd was a pervasive and powerful metaphor for kings and leaders, signifying their fundamental responsibility to protect, guide, and provide for their people. However, Israel's leaders had acted as predatory wolves rather than caring shepherds, leading to the nation's spiritual and physical ruin. Against this backdrop of political turmoil, spiritual neglect, and physical displacement, God's declaration to personally assume the role of Shepherd offered immense hope and a radical redefinition of true leadership, emphasizing divine care and faithfulness over human corruption and failure.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Ezekiel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully establishes the theme of **Divine Shepherdhood**, portraying God not as a distant deity but as an intimately involved, compassionate caregiver who actively seeks the welfare of His people. This theme contrasts sharply with the failed human leadership, underscoring God's perfect faithfulness and unwavering commitment. Secondly, it highlights **God's Sovereign Provision and Restoration**, promising not just rescue from exile but also sustained nourishment and security, both physically and spiritually. This speaks to God's commitment to holistic well-being for His covenant people, a promise beautifully echoed in [Psalm 23](/psalm/23 "Psalm 23 - The Lord is My Shepherd"). Thirdly, the phrase "cause them to lie down" introduces the theme of **Peace and Security**, signifying a future state of profound rest, free from fear and oppression, a stark contrast to their current tumultuous existence. This foreshadows the ultimate rest found in God's presence and the messianic era. Finally, the declaration "saith the Lord GOD" reinforces God's **Covenant Faithfulness and Authority**, emphasizing that these are not mere hopes but certain divine decrees from the ultimate Sovereign.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **feed (Hebrew, _râʻâh'_):** This primitive root (H7462) means "to tend a flock," "to pasture it," or "to graze." It encompasses far more than merely providing food; it signifies comprehensive care, including guiding, protecting, healing, and leading the flock to suitable pastures and water. When applied to God, it highlights His holistic and active involvement in the lives of His people, providing for all their needs—spiritual, physical, and emotional—as a devoted shepherd.
* **flock (Hebrew, _tsôʼn'_):** This collective noun (H6629) refers to a group of sheep or goats, but it is used figuratively here to represent the people of Israel. The imagery emphasizes their inherent vulnerability, dependence, and profound need for a shepherd. By identifying His people as His "flock," God underscores His intimate relationship with them, His proprietary claim over them, and His deep responsibility and commitment to their well-being.
* **lie down (Hebrew, _râbats'_):** This primitive root (H7257) describes the act of an animal crouching or reclining, typically in a safe and secure place. It conveys a profound sense of deep rest, peace, and contentment, free from anxiety or threat. For a flock, lying down indicates that they are well-fed, safe from predators, and have no need to wander in search of sustenance or security. When God promises to "cause them to lie down," it signifies His intention to bring His people into a state of profound peace, security, and freedom from fear, a stark contrast to their scattered and distressed condition.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I will feed my flock":** This opening clause emphatically establishes God's personal and active role as the divine Shepherd. The prominent "I" underscores that this is God's direct intervention, not through human intermediaries who have demonstrably failed. "Feed" (râʻâh) signifies comprehensive care, including spiritual nourishment, wise guidance, and vigilant protection, extending far beyond mere physical sustenance. It promises a restoration of true leadership and abundant provision directly from God Himself.
* **"and I will cause them to lie down":** This second clause promises a state of profound peace, security, and rest for the flock. "Cause them to lie down" (râbats) implies leading them to a safe and verdant pasture where they can recline without fear, signifying an end to their wandering, oppression, and anxiety. It speaks of a restored sense of safety and well-being under God's watchful care, where their needs are fully met and their hearts are at peace, free from external threats and internal turmoil.
* **"saith the Lord GOD":** This concluding phrase serves as a divine affirmation and an unbreakable seal of the promise. "Saith" (nᵉʼum, H5002) denotes an authoritative oracle or declaration directly from God, carrying the weight of divine decree. The title "Lord GOD" (ʼĂdônây Yᵉhôvih, H136, H3069) combines Adonai, emphasizing God's absolute sovereignty and mastership, with Yahweh, His covenant name, highlighting His personal, faithful, and unchanging nature. This powerful combination assures the hearer that the promise is certain, unbreakable, and backed by the full authority and unwavering faithfulness of the Almighty Creator and Covenant Keeper.

#### Literary Devices
Ezekiel 34:15 is rich in **Metaphor**, primarily the pervasive **Shepherd-Flock metaphor**, which is central to the entire chapter. God is depicted as the ultimate, ideal Shepherd, and Israel as His vulnerable, dependent flock. This metaphor vividly conveys God's intimate care, protection, and provision, contrasting sharply with the predatory and negligent human shepherds. The phrase "cause them to lie down" employs powerful **Imagery** that evokes a scene of peaceful pastoral tranquility and deep contentment, a state deeply desired by a people experiencing chaos and displacement. This visual reinforces the promise of security and rest. Furthermore, the verse uses **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human-like actions (feeding, causing to lie down) to God, making His divine care relatable and personal. The concluding "saith the Lord GOD" functions as a **Divine Oracle Formula**, lending absolute authority and certainty to the promise, transforming it from a mere statement into an unchangeable, divinely decreed reality.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ezekiel 34:15 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering commitment to His people, revealing His character as the compassionate and sovereign Shepherd. This promise of divine care and restoration is deeply rooted in the covenant relationship between God and Israel, underscoring His faithfulness even in the face of profound human failure and rebellion. The verse anticipates a future where God Himself will rectify the injustices wrought by corrupt human leadership, bringing His people into a state of true peace and flourishing. It points forward to the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, where His people will experience perfect provision and security under His direct, loving rule, a promise that resonates throughout the biblical narrative.
* [Psalm 23:1-2](/psalm/23-1-2 "Psalm 23:1-2 - The Lord is My Shepherd")
* [Isaiah 40:11](/isaiah/40-11 "Isaiah 40:11 - God's Tender Care for His Flock")
* [Jeremiah 31:10](/jeremiah/31-10 "Jeremiah 31:10 - The Lord Gathers and Keeps His Flock")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ezekiel 34:15 offers profound comfort and a steadfast anchor for believers navigating the complexities of life. In a world often marked by instability, fear, and the failures of human leadership, this verse reminds us that our ultimate security and provision come from the Lord GOD Himself. It invites us to release our anxieties and fears, trusting that the same God who promised to feed and provide rest for His ancient flock is intimately concerned with our well-being today. We are called to lean into His sovereign care, finding our true sustenance and peace in His presence, rather than seeking it in fleeting worldly solutions or unreliable human systems. This verse encourages us to cultivate a posture of dependence, knowing that our Good Shepherd will lead us to green pastures and still waters, ensuring our spiritual nourishment and emotional tranquility, even amidst life's storms. It challenges us to examine where we are truly seeking our provision and rest, redirecting our gaze to the unfailing care of our divine Shepherd.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you most need God to "feed" you, providing spiritual, emotional, or physical sustenance?**
* **What anxieties or fears prevent you from truly "lying down" in the peace and security God offers through His sovereign care?**
* **How does recognizing God as your personal Shepherd change your perspective on challenges or uncertainties you face, particularly concerning leadership or provision?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to intentionally lean into God's provision and rest, rather than striving in your own strength or relying solely on human efforts?**

### FAQ
**Why is the imagery of God as a shepherd so significant in the Bible?**

Answer: The imagery of God as a shepherd is profoundly significant because it conveys a deep, personal, and comprehensive relationship between God and His people. In ancient cultures, a shepherd was a protector, provider, guide, and healer for his flock, often risking his own life. This metaphor highlights God's active involvement in the lives of His people, His tender care for the vulnerable, His commitment to leading them to safety and sustenance, and His willingness to rescue them from danger. It contrasts sharply with the failures of human leaders, emphasizing God's perfect faithfulness and unwavering commitment to His covenant. Passages like [Psalm 23](/psalm/23 "Psalm 23 - The Lord is My Shepherd") beautifully articulate this intimate relationship, portraying God as the one who meets every need and leads to peace.

**What does "cause them to lie down" specifically imply for the flock?**

Answer: The phrase "cause them to lie down" (Hebrew: _râbats_) implies a state of profound peace, security, and contentment. For a flock, lying down means they are safe from predators, their hunger is satisfied, and they are free from the need to wander in search of food or water. It signifies a complete absence of fear and anxiety. Spiritually, for God's people, it implies a state of rest and tranquility that comes from trusting in God's provision and protection. It speaks to an end of their distress, wandering, and oppression, ushering in an era of divine peace and stability, where they can truly rest in God's presence. This is a powerful promise of restoration and well-being, a divine invitation to cease striving and find solace in His care.

**How does this prophecy in Ezekiel relate to the role of spiritual leaders today?**

Answer: Ezekiel 34, including verse 15, serves as a timeless critique of abusive or negligent leadership and a foundational model for true spiritual care. It establishes God's standard for shepherds (leaders) by demonstrating His own perfect shepherdhood. For spiritual leaders today, this chapter is a stark reminder that their primary calling is to selflessly feed, protect, and care for God's flock, not to exploit or neglect them. It underscores that genuine leadership is characterized by service, sacrifice, and a deep concern for the holistic well-being of the people, mirroring Christ's example as the Good Shepherd. It also reminds the flock that their ultimate trust should be in God, who is the true Shepherd, even when human leaders falter, and that they should discern between those who genuinely care for the sheep and those who care only for themselves.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ezekiel 34:15 finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah. While Ezekiel prophesied of God's direct intervention and the raising up of "one shepherd, my servant David" ([Ezekiel 34:23](/ezekiel/34-23 "Ezekiel 34:23 - The Promise of One Shepherd, My Servant David")), the New Testament unequivocally identifies Jesus as this divine Shepherd. Jesus Himself declares, "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep" ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd")). He is the one who perfectly fulfills the promise to "feed my flock," providing spiritual nourishment through His Word and His very life, declaring, "I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")). Furthermore, Jesus perfectly embodies the promise to "cause them to lie down," offering true peace and rest to weary souls, saying, "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" ([Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Jesus Offers Rest")). Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, He gathers His scattered sheep, brings them into His eternal fold, and guarantees their eternal security and peace, demonstrating God's perfect shepherdhood in a way that no human leader ever could.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 34:23

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.

Jeremiah 3:15

And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.

John 21:15

¶ So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, [son] of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

Zephaniah 3:13

The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth: for they shall feed and lie down, and none shall make [them] afraid.

Psalms 23:1

¶ A Psalm of David. The LORD [is] my shepherd; I shall not want.

Psalms 23:2

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

Isaiah 11:6

The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.