Ezekiel 34:7

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

Therefore, ye shepherds {H7462}, hear {H8085} the word {H1697} of the LORD {H3068};

"'Therefore, shepherds, hear the word of ADONAI:

Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD:

Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of Jehovah:

Commentary

Ezekiel 34:7 serves as a solemn and direct address from God to the unfaithful leaders of Israel, metaphorically referred to as "shepherds." This verse introduces a powerful indictment against those who failed to care for God's people, preceding the Lord's declaration of His own intention to shepherd His flock.

Context of Ezekiel 34:7

Chapter 34 of Ezekiel is a pivotal prophetic message primarily directed at the spiritual and political leaders of Israel during a time of national decline and exile. These leaders, likened to shepherds who fed themselves instead of their flock, are accused of neglecting, exploiting, and scattering God's people. This verse, "Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of the LORD," marks a turning point, signaling that divine judgment and a new covenant of care are about to be pronounced. It underscores the severity of their failure and the absolute authority of God's coming pronouncement.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Accountability of Leadership: The verse immediately establishes that those in positions of power and influence are directly accountable to God for how they treat His people. It's a stark reminder that leadership is a stewardship, not a privilege for self-enrichment.
  • The Imperative to Hear God's Word: The command to "hear the word of the LORD" is not merely an invitation but a divine summons. It emphasizes that God's pronouncements are authoritative and demand attention, especially from those who have strayed from His will.
  • God's Concern for His Flock: Underlying the judgment is God's deep concern for His people, who have suffered under poor leadership. This concern sets the stage for God's promise to become the true and good Shepherd Himself.

Linguistic Insights

The term "shepherds" in Hebrew is ro'im (ืจึนืขึดื™ื), which refers not just to those who tend literal sheep, but more broadly to rulers, kings, priests, or any authority figures responsible for the well-being and guidance of a group of people. The phrase "the word of the LORD" (debar YHWH) highlights the divine origin and unchallengeable authority of the message that follows, indicating that this is a direct revelation from God Himself, not merely human opinion or accusation.

Practical Application

Ezekiel 34:7 carries profound relevance for contemporary leaders, whether in spiritual, political, or community spheres. It serves as a powerful call to:

  • Selfless Service: Leaders are called to prioritize the well-being of those they lead, rather than their own gain or comfort.
  • Humility and Obedience: All leaders, regardless of their position, must remain humble and attentive to God's word, allowing it to shape their decisions and actions.
  • Accountability: This verse reminds us that there is ultimate accountability to God for how authority is exercised. It encourages followers to discern good leadership and pray for their leaders to embody the characteristics of a true shepherd, as exemplified by Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

The message is clear: those entrusted with guiding others must listen to and obey the voice of the Lord, for their actions have profound consequences for the flock.

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 82:1

    ยถ A Psalm of Asaph. God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods.

  • Psalms 82:7

    But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.

  • Ezekiel 34:9

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

  • Jeremiah 22:2

    And say, Hear the word of the LORD, O king of Judah, that sittest upon the throne of David, thou, and thy servants, and thy people that enter in by these gates:

  • Jeremiah 22:3

    Thus saith the LORD; Execute ye judgment and righteousness, and deliver the spoiled out of the hand of the oppressor: and do no wrong, do no violence to the stranger, the fatherless, nor the widow, neither shed innocent blood in this place.

  • Jeremiah 13:18

    Say unto the king and to the queen, Humble yourselves, sit down: for your principalities shall come down, [even] the crown of your glory.

  • Micah 3:8

    ยถ But truly I am full of power by the spirit of the LORD, and of judgment, and of might, to declare unto Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin.