Zechariah 11:17

KJV

Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword [shall be] upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened.

KJV (with Strong's)

Woe {H1945} to the idol {H457} shepherd {H7473} that leaveth {H5800} the flock {H6629}! the sword {H2719} shall be upon his arm {H2220}, and upon his right {H3225} eye {H5869}: his arm {H2220} shall be clean {H3001} dried up {H3001}, and his right {H3225} eye {H5869} shall be utterly {H3543} darkened {H3543}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Woe to the worthless shepherd who abandons the sheep! May a sword strike his arm and his right eye. May his arm be completely withered and his right eye totally blinded."

Berean Standard Bible

Woe to the worthless shepherd,who deserts the flock!May a sword strike his armand his right eye!May his arm be completely witheredand his right eye utterly blinded!”

American Standard Version

Woe to the worthless shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword shall be upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 11:17 delivers a severe prophetic "woe" against a negligent and self-serving leader, metaphorically described as an "idol shepherd" who abandons his flock. This pronouncement details divine judgment, specifically targeting the shepherd's arm and right eye, symbolizing the incapacitation of his ability to act, protect, and discern, thereby rendering him utterly useless and blind to his responsibilities. The verse serves as a climactic condemnation within Zechariah's allegorical portrayal of Israel's corrupt leadership and God's righteous retribution.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 11 is a profound and somber prophetic allegory that depicts God's relationship with His people, particularly through the lens of their leadership. The chapter begins with a lament over the destruction of the land, followed by Zechariah's symbolic role as a shepherd of a flock "doomed to slaughter" ([Zechariah 11:4](/zechariah/11-4 "Zechariah 11:4 - Shepherd of the Doomed Flock")). He carries two staffs, "Beauty" (or "Favor"), representing God's covenant with Israel, and "Bands" (or "Union"), symbolizing the unity between Judah and Israel ([Zechariah 11:7](/zechariah/11-7 "Zechariah 11:7 - The Two Staffs")). The breaking of "Beauty" signifies God's breaking of His covenant due to the people's rejection of Him and His true shepherd. The true shepherd, often understood as a prefigurement of the Messiah, is then rejected and valued at the price of a slave—thirty pieces of silver ([Zechariah 11:12-13](/zechariah/11-12-13 "Zechariah 11:12-13 - The Price of the Shepherd")). Following this rejection, a "foolish" or "worthless" shepherd is appointed, who exploits and neglects the flock, failing to care for the perishing, lost, or injured ([Zechariah 11:15-16](/zechariah/11-15-16 "Zechariah 11:15-16 - The Foolish Shepherd")). Zechariah 11:17 is the climactic pronouncement of divine judgment, the "woe," upon this worthless leader, summarizing God's righteous anger and the severe consequences of such abandonment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Zechariah is set in the post-exilic period, around 520-518 BC, as the Jewish exiles had returned from Babylon and were engaged in rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. This era was marked by spiritual and national challenges, with the people struggling to maintain their identity and faith under Persian rule. The concept of a "shepherd" was a common metaphor for leadership in the ancient Near East, applying to kings, priests, and prophets, who were expected to guide, protect, and provide for their people. Israel's history was replete with examples of both faithful and unfaithful leaders, from David, the shepherd-king, to numerous corrupt kings and prophets who led the people astray. The prophecy in Zechariah 11 reflects this historical reality, lamenting the failure of past and contemporary leaders who, instead of nurturing the flock, exploited it for personal gain. The divine judgment pronounced in this verse resonates with earlier prophetic condemnations of negligent leadership found throughout the Old Testament, such as in [Ezekiel 34](/ezekiel/34 "Ezekiel 34 - The Shepherds of Israel") and [Jeremiah 23](/jeremiah/23 "Jeremiah 23 - Woe to Worthless Shepherds").

* **Key Themes:** Zechariah 11:17 contributes significantly to several major themes within the book and broader biblical theology. A primary theme is **Divine Judgment on Worthless Leadership**. The "woe" pronounced is God's direct condemnation of leaders who abandon or exploit their spiritual and societal responsibilities, emphasizing that such negligence will not go unpunished. Another key theme is the **Consequences of Negligence**. The severe physical judgments—a withered arm and a darkened eye—are not merely literal punishments but powerful symbols of the loss of the very faculties essential for effective leadership: the ability to act decisively and protect (arm) and the capacity to discern, guide, and envision (eye). These punishments perfectly fit the crime of a shepherd who "leaveth the flock." Finally, the verse highlights the **Contrast with the True Shepherd**. By depicting the utter failure and judgment of the "idol shepherd," the prophecy implicitly, and later explicitly in the New Testament, sets the stage for the coming of the [Good Shepherd](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd") who lays down His life for the sheep, in stark opposition to the self-serving and destructive nature of the worthless leader.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Idol (Hebrew, _ʼĕlîyl'_):** (H457) This word, often translated as "worthless," "insignificant," or "of no value," is derived from a root meaning "nothing." When applied to a shepherd, it describes a leader who is empty, useless, or brings no benefit to the flock. It signifies not necessarily a literal idol worshiper, but a leader whose actions are akin to worshiping a false god—their own self-interest—rather than genuinely caring for the flock. Such a leader is "good for nothing" in the eyes of God, failing to fulfill the divine mandate of true shepherding.
* **Leaveth (Hebrew, _ʻâzab'_):** (H5800) This primitive root means "to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, forsake, leave (destitute, off)." In the context of a shepherd, it denotes the deliberate abandonment of responsibility. This is not merely neglect but an active turning away from the flock, leaving them vulnerable to predators and distress. It highlights the shepherd's profound dereliction of duty, which is the core offense leading to the "woe."
* **Arm (Hebrew, _zᵉrôwaʻ'_):** (H2220) The arm, as the limb stretched out for action, symbolizes strength, power, and the ability to act, protect, and provide. For a shepherd, the arm is crucial for wielding a staff, defending against threats, and guiding the sheep. The judgment that the arm "shall be clean dried up" signifies the complete incapacitation of the shepherd's strength and capacity for effective action.
* **Eye (Hebrew, _ʻayin'_):** (H5869) The eye represents vision, discernment, guidance, and the ability to see and understand. For a shepherd, the eye is essential for watching over the flock, identifying dangers, finding pasture, and leading the sheep. The judgment that the right eye "shall be utterly darkened" symbolizes the complete loss of the shepherd's spiritual and practical insight, rendering him blind to the needs of the flock and incapable of providing proper guidance. The "right eye" specifically, often associated with strength and precision, emphasizes the complete removal of his most vital faculty for discernment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock!":** This opening pronouncement is a divine curse or lament, signaling a severe judgment. The "idol shepherd" (or "worthless shepherd") is identified as the recipient of this woe, specifically condemned for his egregious act of "leav[ing] the flock." This highlights the fundamental failure of his leadership: abandonment and negligence, rather than care and protection.
* **"the sword [shall be] upon his arm, and upon his right eye:":** This clause introduces the nature of the divine retribution. The "sword" here is not necessarily a literal weapon but a symbol of divine judgment and punitive action. It is directed specifically at the shepherd's "arm" and "right eye," indicating that the punishment will target the very faculties that a shepherd needs to perform his duties effectively.
* **"his arm shall be clean dried up,":** This describes the first consequence of the divine judgment. The "drying up" of the arm signifies the complete loss of strength, power, and the ability to act or provide. A shepherd with a withered arm is incapable of wielding his staff, defending his sheep, or leading them. This is a direct and fitting punishment for a leader who failed to use his strength for the flock's benefit.
* **"and his right eye shall be utterly darkened.":** This describes the second, equally severe consequence. The "utterly darkened" right eye signifies the complete loss of vision, discernment, and guidance. A shepherd who is blind cannot see dangers, find pasture, or lead his flock. This judgment incapacitates his ability to perceive and guide, reflecting his failure to provide spiritual or practical insight for those under his care.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 11:17 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of divine judgment. The most prominent is **Symbolism**, where the "shepherd" represents the leader, and the "flock" symbolizes the people or nation. The "arm" symbolizes strength, action, and provision, while the "right eye" symbolizes discernment, vision, and guidance. The "sword" is a symbol of divine judgment and punitive action. The entire verse functions as an extended **Metaphor**, comparing corrupt leadership to a "worthless shepherd" who abandons his sheep, thereby illustrating the devastating consequences of such neglect. The opening "Woe" is a classic prophetic **Woe Oracle**, a common literary form in the Old Testament used to pronounce judgment and lament over sin or impending disaster. The descriptions of the arm being "clean dried up" and the eye "utterly darkened" utilize **Hyperbole** and **Figurative Language** to emphasize the completeness and severity of the incapacitation, underscoring that the punishment precisely fits the crime by removing the very capacities that the shepherd failed to use righteously.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Zechariah 11:17 powerfully underscores God's unwavering justice and His profound concern for His people, particularly regarding the quality of their leadership. The "woe" pronounced upon the "idol shepherd" reveals that God holds those in positions of authority to a high standard of accountability. True leadership, whether spiritual or secular, is characterized by selfless care, protection, and guidance, not exploitation or abandonment. This verse stands as a stark reminder that negligence and self-interest in leadership are an affront to God and will incur severe divine retribution. It also highlights the theme of divine sovereignty over human affairs, demonstrating that God will ultimately intervene to address injustice and protect His flock, even if it means removing unworthy leaders. The judgment on the arm and eye signifies a divinely ordained incapacitation, ensuring that those who fail to use their strength and discernment for good will lose those very capacities.

* [Ezekiel 34:1-10](/ezekiel/34-1-10 "Ezekiel 34:1-10 - Condemnation of Israel's Shepherds")
* [Jeremiah 23:1-4](/jeremiah/23-1-4 "Jeremiah 23:1-4 - Woe to Worthless Shepherds")
* [Matthew 23:13-36](/matthew/23-13-36 "Matthew 23:13-36 - Woes to the Scribes and Pharisees")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 11:17 offers timeless and profound lessons for all who hold positions of influence, whether in the church, in civil society, in the workplace, or within families. It serves as a sobering reminder that leadership is a sacred trust, not an opportunity for personal gain or neglect. For those in authority, the verse calls for a deep introspection: Am I truly caring for those entrusted to me, or am I "leaving the flock" through indifference, self-interest, or a lack of engagement? Am I using my "arm" (strength, resources, influence) to protect and provide, and my "eye" (discernment, vision, wisdom) to guide and lead rightly? The severe consequences described should motivate all leaders to cultivate genuine compassion, diligence, and integrity. For those who are part of the "flock," this passage encourages discernment. It calls us to recognize the characteristics of true, sacrificial leadership versus that which is worthless or self-serving, and to pray for and support leaders who genuinely embody the spirit of a good shepherd. Ultimately, this prophecy points to God's unwavering justice and His ultimate sovereignty over all forms of leadership, ensuring that those who abandon their sacred trust will face the consequences.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, in my sphere of influence, be tempted to "leave the flock" or neglect my responsibilities?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater sense of accountability and sacrificial care in my leadership roles, whether formal or informal?**
* **What are the "arms" and "eyes" (i.e., strengths and insights) that God has given me, and how am I using them for the benefit of others, rather than for self-interest?**
* **How can I better discern between true, God-honoring leadership and that which is "worthless" or self-serving in my community or church?**

### FAQ

**Who is the "idol shepherd" or "worthless shepherd" in Zechariah 11:17?**

Answer: The "idol shepherd" (KJV) or "worthless shepherd" (as translated in many modern versions like ESV, NIV) is not identified as a specific historical individual. Instead, he represents a type of corrupt, negligent, and self-serving leader who exploits rather than cares for the flock (the people of Israel). This figure stands in stark contrast to the true shepherd (often seen as a prefigurement of the Messiah) who was rejected earlier in [Zechariah 11](/zechariah/11 "Zechariah 11 - The Shepherds and the Flock"). The "idol" aspect refers to his worthlessness or emptiness, implying that he is good for nothing and brings no benefit to the flock, effectively serving himself rather than God or the people.

**What do the judgments on the "arm" and "right eye" symbolize?**

Answer: The judgments on the "arm" and "right eye" are highly symbolic, representing the incapacitation of the very faculties essential for a shepherd's role. The "arm" symbolizes strength, power, and the ability to act, protect, and provide for the flock. A "dried up" arm means the loss of this capacity. The "right eye" symbolizes vision, discernment, and the ability to guide and lead with wisdom. An "utterly darkened" right eye signifies the complete loss of insight and the inability to see or guide the flock effectively. These punishments are fitting, as they directly remove the capabilities that the worthless shepherd failed to use righteously for the well-being of his flock.

**How does this prophecy apply to leaders today?**

Answer: Zechariah 11:17 serves as a timeless warning for all who hold positions of leadership and influence, whether in spiritual, governmental, corporate, or familial contexts. It underscores God's demand for accountability and integrity from those entrusted with authority. Leaders today are called to be true shepherds, demonstrating selfless care, protection, and wise guidance for those under their charge, rather than exploiting them for personal gain or abandoning them through negligence. The "woe" reminds us that God holds leaders to a high standard, and failure to meet this standard will ultimately incur divine judgment, manifesting as the loss of effectiveness or influence in their areas of responsibility.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 11:17, with its pronouncement of woe against the "idol shepherd," finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the stark contrast between the worthless leaders of Israel and the perfect, self-sacrificial ministry of Jesus, the True Shepherd. The chapter itself foreshadows the rejection of the Messiah, valued at the price of a slave ([Zechariah 11:12-13](/zechariah/11-12-13 "Zechariah 11:12-13 - The Price of the Shepherd")), a prophecy directly fulfilled in Judas's betrayal of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver ([Matthew 26:14-15](/matthew/26-14-15 "Matthew 26:14-15 - Judas's Betrayal") and [Matthew 27:3-10](/matthew/27-3-10 "Matthew 27:3-10 - Judas's Remorse and Death")). While the "idol shepherd" abandons the flock, Jesus declares, "I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep" ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd")). Unlike the worthless shepherd whose arm is dried up and eye darkened, Jesus possessed all power and perfect discernment, using His strength to heal ([Matthew 8:1-3](/matthew/8-1-3 "Matthew 8:1-3 - Jesus Heals a Leper")) and His divine vision to guide His disciples and expose hypocrisy ([Matthew 23:13-36](/matthew/23-13-36 "Matthew 23:13-36 - Woes to the Scribes and Pharisees")). The judgment on the "idol shepherd" serves as a powerful backdrop, highlighting the unparalleled grace and faithfulness of Christ, who did not abandon His flock but pursued them even unto death, gathering those who were scattered and lost ([Matthew 9:36](/matthew/9-36 "Matthew 9:36 - Jesus' Compassion for the Crowds")). He is the one Shepherd who perfectly fulfills all the righteous demands of God, offering true protection, provision, and eternal life to His sheep ([John 10:27-28](/john/10-27-28 "John 10:27-28 - My Sheep Hear My Voice")).

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 23:1

¶ Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.

Ezekiel 13:3

Thus saith the Lord GOD; Woe unto the foolish prophets, that follow their own spirit, and have seen nothing!

1 Corinthians 8:4

¶ As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol [is] nothing in the world, and that [there is] none other God but one.

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?

Isaiah 42:19

Who [is] blind, but my servant? or deaf, as my messenger [that] I sent? who [is] blind as [he that is] perfect, and blind as the LORD'S servant?

Isaiah 42:20

Seeing many things, but thou observest not; opening the ears, but he heareth not.

Matthew 23:16

Woe unto you, [ye] blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor!