Zechariah 11:16

KJV

For, lo, I will raise up a shepherd in the land, [which] shall not visit those that be cut off, neither shall seek the young one, nor heal that that is broken, nor feed that that standeth still: but he shall eat the flesh of the fat, and tear their claws in pieces.

KJV (with Strong's)

For, lo, I will raise up {H6965} a shepherd {H7462} in the land {H776}, which shall not visit {H6485} those that be cut off {H3582}, neither shall seek {H1245} the young one {H5289}, nor heal {H7495} that that is broken {H7665}, nor feed {H3557} that that standeth {H5324} still: but he shall eat {H398} the flesh {H1320} of the fat {H1277}, and tear {H6561} their claws {H6541} in pieces {H6561}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For I am going to raise up a shepherd in the land who won't bother about the ones who have been destroyed, won't seek out the young, won't heal the broken and won't feed those standing still; on the contrary, he will eat the meat of the fat ones and break their hoofs in pieces.

Berean Standard Bible

For behold, I will raise up a shepherd in the land who will neither care for the lost, nor seek the young, nor heal the broken, nor sustain the healthy, but he will devour the flesh of the choice sheep and tear off their hooves.

American Standard Version

For, lo, I will raise up a shepherd in the land, who will not visit those that are cut off, neither will seek those that are scattered, nor heal that which is broken, nor feed that which is sound; but he will eat the flesh of the fat sheep, and will tear their hoofs in pieces.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 11:16 delivers a severe prophetic indictment, depicting the rise of a "worthless shepherd" as a divine judgment upon a disobedient people. This shepherd, far from caring for the flock, utterly neglects the vulnerable, the lost, and the injured, instead preying upon the strong and healthy for his own selfish gain. The verse serves as a stark warning against corrupt leadership and illustrates the devastating consequences when a nation rejects God's true guidance, highlighting themes of exploitation, neglect, and divine retribution.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 11:16 is situated within a highly symbolic and dramatic section of Zechariah, specifically chapter 11, which portrays the rejection of God's true shepherd and the subsequent judgment. The chapter begins with a lament over the destruction of the land, followed by God's commission to Zechariah to "shepherd the flock doomed to slaughter" (cf. [Zechariah 11:4](/zechariah/11-4 "Zechariah 11:4 - Shepherd the Flock")). Zechariah acts out a symbolic shepherding role, breaking two staffs: "Favor" (or "Grace"), signifying the breaking of God's covenant with all peoples (cf. [Zechariah 11:10](/zechariah/11-10 "Zechariah 11:10 - Breaking the Staff of Favor")), and "Union" (or "Bonds"), symbolizing the breaking of brotherhood between Judah and Israel (cf. [Zechariah 11:14](/zechariah/11-14 "Zechariah 11:14 - Breaking the Staff of Union")). The rejection of the true shepherd is underscored by the paltry payment of thirty pieces of silver (cf. [Zechariah 11:12-13](/zechariah/11-12-13 "Zechariah 11:12-13 - The Price of the Shepherd")), a sum later prophetically fulfilled in the betrayal of Jesus. Verse 16 then introduces the antithesis of the good shepherd—a "worthless" or "foolish" shepherd—whom God Himself will raise up as a consequence of the people's rejection.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Zechariah was written to the Jewish community in Judah after their return from Babylonian exile, likely around 520-518 BC. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, and particularly in Israel, the image of a "shepherd" was a pervasive and powerful metaphor for leadership, encompassing kings, priests, and prophets. Rulers were expected to care for their people as a shepherd cares for his flock, providing protection, provision, and guidance. The Old Testament frequently uses this imagery to describe both righteous rulers (e.g., David) and corrupt ones who exploit their people. Therefore, the description of a "worthless shepherd" in Zechariah 11:16 would have immediately resonated with the audience as a prophecy concerning a disastrous, self-serving leader who would bring further ruin upon the nation, contrasting sharply with the divine ideal of a caring, covenant-keeping shepherd.
* **Key Themes:** Zechariah 11:16 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the chapter and the broader prophetic book. It powerfully articulates the theme of **Divine Judgment**, where God actively allows or raises up oppressive leadership as a consequence of His people's spiritual rebellion and rejection of His true guidance. This verse also vividly portrays the **Nature of Corrupt Leadership**, contrasting the ideal shepherd with a predatory one who exploits rather than protects, highlighting the dangers of self-serving authority. Furthermore, it underscores the theme of **Consequences of Rejection**, demonstrating that turning away from the Lord's chosen representatives or His covenant path inevitably leads to severe and painful outcomes, such as being subjected to harsh and uncaring rule, as seen in the broader narrative of [Zechariah 11](/zechariah/11 "Zechariah 11 - The Worthless Shepherd").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Shepherd (Hebrew, _râʻâh'_):** From H7462, a primitive root meaning "to tend a flock; i.e. pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a friend)." In this context, _râʻâh_ refers to a leader, but the subsequent description immediately subverts the positive connotations usually associated with a shepherd, painting a picture of one who rules not with care but with destructive intent.
* **Seek (Hebrew, _bâqash'_):** From H1245, a primitive root meaning "to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after; ask, beg, beseech, desire, enquire, get, make inquisition, procure, (make) request, require, seek (for)." The negation "shall not seek" emphasizes the shepherd's profound neglect and lack of concern for the lost or vulnerable members of the flock, directly contrasting with the expected diligent care of a true shepherd.
* **Tear (Hebrew, _pâraq'_):** From H6561, a primitive root meaning "to break off or crunch; figuratively, to deliver." Here, the sense is violent and destructive: "to rend (in pieces), tear in pieces." When applied to "claws" or "hooves," it depicts a brutal, predatory act, signifying the shepherd's savage exploitation and dismemberment of the flock for his own benefit, rather than protecting them.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For, lo, I will raise up a shepherd in the land,"**: This opening clause emphasizes divine sovereignty and judgment. God Himself declares His intention to allow or appoint this shepherd, indicating that this destructive leadership is not accidental but a direct consequence or instrument of divine retribution for the people's rejection of His true guidance.
* **"[which] shall not visit those that be cut off,"**: The first mark of the worthless shepherd's neglect. "Cut off" (H3582, _kâchad_) refers to those who are hidden, destroyed, or separated from the flock. A good shepherd would diligently seek out and restore such lost or isolated sheep; this shepherd will not even bother to check on them.
* **"neither shall seek the young one,"**: This highlights the shepherd's disregard for the most vulnerable. "Young one" (H5289, _naʻar_) implies the weakest, most dependent members of the flock. The true shepherd would protect and nurture the young; this one shows no concern for their survival or well-being.
* **"nor heal that that is broken,"**: The shepherd fails to provide care for the injured or afflicted. "Broken" (H7665, _shâbar_) refers to those who are hurt or crushed. Instead of mending and restoring, this shepherd leaves the wounded to suffer and perish.
* **"nor feed that that standeth still:"**: This clause speaks to the neglect of the weary or struggling. "Standeth still" (H5324, _nâtsab_) can imply those who are exhausted, weak, or unable to move forward. A good shepherd nourishes and sustains the weak, but this one withholds even basic sustenance.
* **"but he shall eat the flesh of the fat,"**: In stark contrast to his neglect of the weak, this shepherd actively preys upon the strong and prosperous. "Fat" (H1277, _bârîyʼ_) refers to the well-fed and healthy. This imagery vividly portrays exploitation, where the leader consumes the resources and vitality of the thriving members for his own selfish gain.
* **"and tear their claws in pieces."**: This final, brutal image underscores the shepherd's destructive and violent nature. "Claws" (H6541, _parçâh_) refers to hooves. Tearing hooves in pieces is a savage act, symbolizing the utter destruction, disfigurement, and crippling of the flock, leaving them utterly defenseless and ruined.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 11:16 is rich in **Metaphor**, where the "shepherd" represents a leader and the "flock" represents the people. This extended metaphor allows for a vivid portrayal of leadership qualities, both good and bad. The verse employs stark **Contrast** by juxtaposing the expected duties of a good shepherd (visiting, seeking, healing, feeding) with the destructive actions of the worthless shepherd (neglecting, exploiting, tearing). This creates a powerful sense of irony, as the figure meant to protect becomes the primary predator. **Imagery** is heavily used, particularly the visceral descriptions of "eating the flesh of the fat" and "tearing their claws in pieces," which evoke a sense of brutality, exploitation, and complete lack of compassion, making the shepherd's malevolence palpable to the reader. The phrase "I will raise up" indicates **Divine Irony** or **Divine Judgment**, where God uses an instrument of evil to bring about His purposes, in this case, as a consequence for His people's rejection of His true guidance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 11:16 speaks profoundly to the biblical theology of leadership and divine judgment. It underscores God's deep concern for His people, often referred to as His flock, and His righteous indignation when those appointed to care for them instead exploit and abuse. This passage serves as a prophetic warning against false leadership, echoing the condemnations found throughout the Old Testament against kings and spiritual guides who failed to uphold justice and righteousness. The "worthless shepherd" is a prototype of any leader, whether political or spiritual, who prioritizes personal gain over the well-being of those under their charge, ultimately leading to the destruction of the community. God's declaration, "I will raise up," reveals that even destructive leadership can be part of His sovereign plan, serving as a form of judgment or a means to bring His people to repentance when they have rejected His righteous rule.

* [Jeremiah 23:1-2](/jeremiah/23-1-2 "Jeremiah 23:1-2 - Woe to the Shepherds")
* [Ezekiel 34:2-4](/ezekiel/34-2-4 "Ezekiel 34:2-4 - Indictment of Israel's Shepherds")
* [Matthew 23:1-4](/matthew/23-1-4 "Matthew 23:1-4 - Jesus Condemns the Pharisees")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 11:16 offers timeless insights into the nature of leadership and the consequences of spiritual choices. It compels us to critically evaluate those in positions of authority, whether in government, business, or the church. A true leader, like a good shepherd, prioritizes the care, protection, and nourishment of those entrusted to them, especially the vulnerable and marginalized. This verse challenges us to discern between genuine, self-sacrificing leadership and self-serving exploitation. It also serves as a sobering reminder that a people's rejection of God's righteous standards and His true guidance can lead to being subjected to oppressive and destructive rule. Therefore, our responsibility extends beyond merely identifying bad leaders; it calls us to pray for righteous leadership, to hold leaders accountable, and most importantly, to align ourselves with God's will, ensuring that we do not invite such judgment upon ourselves or our communities through our own spiritual apathy or rebellion.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do the characteristics of the "worthless shepherd" challenge your understanding of true leadership in any sphere (family, church, community, nation)?**
* **In what ways might individuals or communities inadvertently "reject" God's true guidance, thereby potentially inviting destructive consequences?**
* **What practical steps can you take to support and encourage leaders who genuinely embody the qualities of a "good shepherd"?**
* **How does this verse prompt you to pray differently for those in authority over you?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "worthless shepherd" prophesied in Zechariah 11:16?**

Answer: The "worthless shepherd" (sometimes translated "foolish shepherd" or "idol shepherd") in Zechariah 11:16 is a prophetic figure representing a corrupt and destructive leader. While some interpretations suggest a specific historical figure (e.g., a particular king or high priest of Israel), the more common and robust understanding is that this shepherd embodies the antithesis of the true, caring shepherd God desires for His people. He symbolizes any leader who, instead of protecting and nourishing the flock, exploits, abuses, and ultimately destroys it for personal gain. This figure serves as a stark warning and a symbol of divine judgment upon a people who have rejected God's righteous rule and true guidance, as detailed throughout [Zechariah 11](/zechariah/11 "Zechariah 11 - The Worthless Shepherd").

**Why would God "raise up" such a destructive shepherd?**

Answer: The phrase "I will raise up" indicates God's sovereign hand in allowing or appointing this destructive leader. This is not to say God directly causes evil, but rather that He permits or uses the consequences of human sin and rebellion as a form of judgment. In the context of Zechariah 11, the people had rejected God's true shepherd (symbolized by Zechariah's prophetic acts and the rejection of the thirty pieces of silver in [Zechariah 11:12-13](/zechariah/11-12-13 "Zechariah 11:12-13 - The Price of the Shepherd")). As a result of their spiritual rebellion and disloyalty, God allows them to experience the devastating consequences of being led by a leader who reflects their own spiritual corruption—one who is self-serving, neglectful, and destructive. This serves as a powerful demonstration of divine justice and a call to repentance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Zechariah 11:16 vividly portrays a "worthless shepherd" as a figure of judgment against a disobedient Israel, its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment is found in the stark contrast it provides to the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. The rejection of the true shepherd in Zechariah 11:4-14, particularly the betrayal for thirty pieces of silver, directly foreshadows the betrayal of Jesus (cf. [Matthew 27:9-10](/matthew/27-9-10 "Matthew 27:9-10 - Fulfillment of Prophecy")). In contrast to the worthless shepherd who neglects the weak, preys on the strong, and tears the flock apart, Jesus declares Himself the [Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd"). He actively seeks the lost (cf. [Luke 15:4-7](/luke/15-4-7 "Luke 15:4-7 - The Parable of the Lost Sheep")), heals the brokenhearted (cf. [Luke 4:18](/luke/4-18 "Luke 4:18 - Jesus' Mission Statement")), nourishes those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (cf. [Matthew 5:6](/matthew/5-6 "Matthew 5:6 - Blessed are those who hunger")), and perfectly cares for His flock. Thus, Zechariah 11:16, by describing the antithesis of a true shepherd, amplifies the profound grace and sacrificial love embodied by Christ, who came not to exploit or destroy, but to give life and life more abundantly (cf. [John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - The Purpose of Christ's Coming")). He is the one true Shepherd, the Chief Shepherd (cf. [1 Peter 5:4](/1_peter/5-4 "1 Peter 5:4 - The Chief Shepherd")), who perfectly fulfills all the righteous attributes that the worthless shepherd utterly lacks.

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 23:2

Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel against the pastors that feed my people; Ye have scattered my flock, and driven them away, and have not visited them: behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings, saith the LORD.

Ezekiel 34:2

Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD unto the shepherds; Woe [be] to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks?

Ezekiel 34:6

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].

Isaiah 40:11

He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry [them] in his bosom, [and] shall gently lead those that are with young.

Luke 12:45

But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken;

Luke 12:46

The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for [him], and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers.

Genesis 31:38

This twenty years [have] I [been] with thee; thy ewes and thy she goats have not cast their young, and the rams of thy flock have I not eaten.