Jeremiah 25:36

KJV

A voice of the cry of the shepherds, and an howling of the principal of the flock, [shall be heard]: for the LORD hath spoiled their pasture.

KJV (with Strong's)

A voice {H6963} of the cry {H6818} of the shepherds {H7462}, and an howling {H3215} of the principal {H117} of the flock {H6629}, shall be heard: for the LORD {H3068} hath spoiled {H7703} their pasture {H4830}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Hear the cry of the shepherds, the wails of the lords of the flock! For ADONAI is destroying their pasture,

Berean Standard Bible

Hear the cry of the shepherds, the wailing of the leaders of the flock, for the LORD is destroying their pasture.

American Standard Version

A voice of the cry of the shepherds, and the wailing of the principal of the flock! for Jehovah layeth waste their pasture.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 25:36 vividly portrays the impending lamentation and despair of Judah's corrupt leaders, metaphorically depicted as "shepherds" and the "principal of the flock." Their cries of anguish and howling signify the utter devastation of their authority, prosperity, and the nation they were meant to guide. This severe judgment is explicitly attributed to the LORD, who has "spoiled their pasture," indicating a divinely orchestrated desolation of their land, resources, and position due to their persistent unfaithfulness and misguidance of the people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 25 is a pivotal chapter, marking a significant turning point in Jeremiah's prophecies. It serves as a comprehensive oracle of judgment, not only against Judah but also against all surrounding nations. Preceding verses establish the seventy-year Babylonian captivity for Judah, a consequence of their persistent disobedience and idolatry, as prophesied in [Jeremiah 25:11](/jeremiah/25-11 "Jeremiah 25:11 - Prophecy of Seventy Years Captivity"). The chapter then introduces the powerful imagery of the "cup of the wine of this fury," which the LORD commands Jeremiah to make all nations drink, signifying universal divine judgment ([Jeremiah 25:15](/jeremiah/25-15 "Jeremiah 25:15 - The Cup of God's Wrath")). Within this broader context of global judgment, verse 36 specifically hones in on the leaders of Judah, illustrating their particular share in the coming desolation, emphasizing that even those in positions of power will not escape God's wrath. The "shepherds" here are the unfaithful rulers, priests, and prophets who failed to lead God's flock righteously.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy in Jeremiah 25 was delivered during the fourth year of Jehoiakim, king of Judah (605 BC), a critical juncture in Judah's history. The Babylonian Empire, under Nebuchadnezzar, was rapidly ascending to global dominance, having just defeated Egypt at the Battle of Carchemish. Judah, caught between these superpowers, faced imminent invasion and subjugation. Culturally, "shepherds" were a common metaphor for leaders in the ancient Near East, symbolizing those responsible for caring for, protecting, and guiding their people. Kings, priests, and prophets were expected to "shepherd" the nation according to God's covenant. The "flock" represented the people of Judah, and their "pasture" symbolized the land, its prosperity, security, and the very foundations of their national life. The impending "spoiling" of this pasture would mean the destruction of their agricultural base, the desolation of their cities, and the loss of their independence and identity, all at the hands of the Babylonians, but ultimately orchestrated by God.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Jeremiah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Judgment on Corrupt Leadership**. God holds those in authority to a higher standard, and their failure to uphold justice and righteousness results in severe consequences, as seen in the lament of the "shepherds." Secondly, it reinforces **God's Sovereignty in Calamity**. The phrase "for the LORD hath spoiled their pasture" unequivocally declares that the impending destruction is not mere misfortune but a deliberate act of divine justice, demonstrating God's active involvement in the affairs of nations and His commitment to covenant faithfulness, even through judgment. This aligns with themes seen in [Isaiah 10:5-6](/isaiah/10-5 "Isaiah 10:5-6 - Assyria as God's Rod") where God uses foreign nations as instruments of His wrath. Thirdly, the verse highlights the theme of **Desolation and Loss** as a consequence of national sin. The imagery of a "spoiled pasture" vividly communicates utter ruin, deprivation, and the complete removal of the comfort, security, and power that the leaders and the nation once enjoyed, serving as a stark warning about the futility of earthly power when it is not aligned with God's will.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **shepherds (Hebrew, _râʻâh'_):** From a primitive root meaning "to tend a flock," "to pasture it," or "to graze." Figuratively, it means "to rule" or "to associate with (as a friend)." In this context, it refers to those who were supposed to care for and lead the people of Judah—their kings, priests, and false prophets—but who instead neglected or abused their charge. Their failure to "tend" the flock righteously leads to their own lament.
* **howling (Hebrew, _yᵉlâlâh'_):** A feminine noun derived from a root meaning "to howl." It specifically denotes a deep, mournful wailing or lamentation, often associated with great disaster, sorrow, or terror. It is a cry of intense distress and utter hopelessness, far beyond a simple shout, indicating the profound anguish of those who once held power.
* **spoiled (Hebrew, _shâdad'_):** A primitive root meaning "to be burly," "powerful," or "impregnable." By implication, it means "to ravage," "destroy," "oppress," or "lay waste." The use of this word emphasizes the complete and forceful devastation inflicted by the LORD. It's not a gentle removal but a violent, total destruction of their resources and position, leaving nothing intact.
* **pasture (Hebrew, _mirʻîyth'_):** From a root meaning "to feed," this noun refers to "pasturage" or, concretely, "a flock." In Jeremiah 25:36, it symbolizes the land, the prosperity, the security, and the very foundation of the nation's well-being and the leaders' authority. Its "spoiling" signifies the utter ruin of all that sustained them.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A voice of the cry of the shepherds, and an howling of the principal of the flock, [shall be heard]:"** This opening clause sets the scene of profound lamentation. The "shepherds" and "principal of the flock" are metaphorical for the leaders of Judah—kings, princes, priests, and false prophets—who were entrusted with guiding the nation. Their "cry" (H6818, _tsaʻăqâh_, a shriek of distress) and "howling" (H3215, _yᵉlâlâh_, a deep mournful wailing) indicate extreme anguish and despair. This is not just a complaint, but a visceral expression of utter defeat and hopelessness, a direct consequence of their failed leadership and the resulting judgment. The implied "shall be heard" underscores the certainty and public nature of their humiliation.
* **"for the LORD hath spoiled their pasture."** This second clause provides the divine rationale and active agent behind the lament. The "pasture" (H4830, _mirʻîyth_) represents the land, its resources, the nation's prosperity, and the very foundation of the leaders' power and security. To "spoil" (H7703, _shâdad_, to ravage or lay waste) their pasture means God has utterly devastated their source of sustenance, authority, and well-being. This is a direct, deliberate act of judgment by "the LORD" (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_), emphasizing His sovereignty and righteous indignation against the unfaithful leadership and the idolatry of the nation. The lament is a direct result of God's decisive intervention.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 25:36 is rich in **Metaphor**, primarily using the imagery of "shepherds" and "flock" to represent the leaders and people of Judah, respectively. This extended metaphor is common in prophetic literature, highlighting the responsibility of those in authority to care for and guide their charges. The "pasture" serves as another powerful metaphor, symbolizing the nation's land, prosperity, and security. The phrase "spoiled their pasture" is an evocative **Imagery** that paints a picture of utter desolation and ruin, conveying the complete removal of comfort and sustenance. The "cry" and "howling" are auditory **Imagery**, emphasizing the depth of despair and the public nature of the leaders' humiliation, creating a vivid sensory experience for the listener or reader. The entire verse functions as a form of **Prophetic Lament**, where the prophet foretells the sorrow and wailing that will accompany divine judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Jeremiah 25:36 profoundly underscores the biblical principle of divine accountability, particularly for those in positions of leadership. It reveals God's unwavering commitment to justice, demonstrating that He will not tolerate unrighteousness, especially when it emanates from those entrusted with guiding His people. The lament of the "shepherds" serves as a stark reminder that earthly power and prosperity are fleeting and contingent upon faithfulness to God's will. When leaders fail to shepherd God's flock righteously, leading them astray through idolatry, injustice, or neglect, God Himself intervenes to bring about their downfall and the desolation of their "pasture." This judgment is not arbitrary but a righteous response to persistent rebellion, showcasing God's sovereignty over nations and His active role in history to uphold His covenant and moral order.

* [Ezekiel 34:1-10](/ezekiel/34-1 "Ezekiel 34:1-10 - Prophecy Against the Shepherds of Israel")
* [Isaiah 56:9-12](/isaiah/56-9 "Isaiah 56:9-12 - The Watchmen Are Blind")
* [Zechariah 11:4-17](/zechariah/11-4 "Zechariah 11:4-17 - The Two Shepherds")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 25:36 offers timeless and piercing insights into the nature of leadership, accountability, and divine justice, with profound implications for believers today. It challenges us to examine the "shepherds" in our own lives—whether spiritual, political, or familial—and, perhaps more importantly, to consider where we ourselves exercise influence and leadership. The "howling" of the leaders serves as a solemn warning against the dangers of self-serving ambition, neglect of duty, and the abuse of power. It reminds us that true authority is a sacred trust, given by God, and that its purpose is to serve, protect, and guide others towards righteousness, not for personal gain or glory. When we fail to steward our responsibilities faithfully, whether in our homes, churches, workplaces, or communities, we invite a form of "spoiling" in our "pasture"—a loss of peace, purpose, or blessing. This verse calls us to heed divine warnings, to cultivate discernment, and to align our leadership, however small, with God's righteous standards, lest we too find ourselves lamenting the consequences of our unfaithfulness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you function as a "shepherd," and how faithfully are you tending your "flock" (e.g., family, team, congregation, personal responsibilities)?**
* **What "pastures" (resources, relationships, opportunities) has God entrusted to you, and how are you stewarding them in alignment with His will?**
* **What "howling" or lamentation might result if you neglect your responsibilities or abuse your influence?**
* **How does this verse challenge your understanding of accountability, both for yourself and for those in authority over you?**

### FAQ
**Who are the "shepherds" and "principal of the flock" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: In Jeremiah 25:36, the "shepherds" and "principal of the flock" are metaphorical terms referring to the unfaithful leaders of Judah. This includes the kings (like Jehoiakim, mentioned in [Jeremiah 25:1](/jeremiah/25-1 "Jeremiah 25:1 - Jeremiah's Prophecy in Jehoiakim's Reign")), princes, priests, and false prophets who were responsible for guiding the nation. They were meant to care for and protect the people (the "flock") according to God's covenant, but instead, they led them astray through idolatry, injustice, and spiritual corruption. This imagery is common in the Old Testament, where God is often portrayed as the true Shepherd of Israel, and human leaders are His delegated under-shepherds, held accountable for their stewardship (e.g., [Ezekiel 34](/ezekiel/34 "Ezekiel 34 - Prophecy Against the Shepherds of Israel")).

**What does it mean that "the LORD hath spoiled their pasture"?**

Answer: The "pasture" in this verse symbolizes the land of Judah, its prosperity, security, and the very foundations of the nation's well-being and the leaders' authority. To say that "the LORD hath spoiled their pasture" means that God Himself has orchestrated the utter devastation and ruin of all that sustained them. This "spoiling" refers to the impending Babylonian invasion, the destruction of Jerusalem, the desolation of the land, and the exile of its people. It signifies the complete removal of their comfort, resources, and power, directly attributed to God's righteous judgment against their persistent disobedience and the failures of their leadership. It emphasizes that this calamity is not random but a deliberate act of divine justice.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 25:36, with its lament over unfaithful shepherds and a spoiled pasture, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in both the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "shepherds" of Judah failed miserably, leading the flock astray and ultimately bringing about their own lament and the desolation of their "pasture." In stark contrast, Jesus presents Himself as the [Good Shepherd](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd"), who not only cares for His sheep but also lays down His life for them, a sacrifice that truly secures their "pasture"—eternal life and abundant provision. While the earthly shepherds led their flock to destruction, Christ leads His to [green pastures and still waters](/psalms/23-2 "Psalm 23:2 - The Lord is My Shepherd"). Furthermore, this verse foreshadows Christ's role as the ultimate Judge. Just as the LORD spoiled the pasture of the unfaithful shepherds, Jesus, as the Son of Man, will one day [separate the sheep from the goats](/matthew/25-31 "Matthew 25:31-46 - The Judgment of the Nations"), bringing righteous judgment upon those who have failed to care for His "least of these." His coming signifies the end of corrupt human leadership and the establishment of His eternal kingdom, where He, the [Chief Shepherd](/1_peter/5-4 "1 Peter 5:4 - The Chief Shepherd"), perfectly tends His flock, ensuring their security and eternal well-being, a pasture that can never be spoiled.

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

Jeremiah 4:8

For this gird you with sackcloth, lament and howl: for the fierce anger of the LORD is not turned back from us.

Jeremiah 25:34

Howl, ye shepherds, and cry; and wallow yourselves [in the ashes], ye principal of the flock: for the days of your slaughter and of your dispersions are accomplished; and ye shall fall like a pleasant vessel.