Zechariah 13:7

KJV

¶ Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man [that is] my fellow, saith the LORD of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones.

KJV (with Strong's)

Awake {H5782}, O sword {H2719}, against my shepherd {H7462}, and against the man {H1397} that is my fellow {H5997}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}: smite {H5221} the shepherd {H7462}, and the sheep {H6629} shall be scattered {H6327}: and I will turn {H7725} mine hand {H3027} upon the little ones {H6819}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Awake, sword, against my shepherd, against the man who is close to me," says ADONAI-Tzva'ot. "Strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered; I will turn my hand against the young ones.

Berean Standard Bible

Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd,against the man who is My Companion,declares the LORD of Hosts.Strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered,and I will turn My hand against the little ones.

American Standard Version

Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith Jehovah of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered; and I will turn my hand upon the little ones.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Zechariah 13:7 is a profound prophetic oracle, a divine decree from the LORD of hosts, commanding a sword to strike a unique "shepherd" who is described as God's "fellow." This act of judgment results in the scattering of the flock, but it is immediately followed by a promise of God's protective and refining hand upon the "little ones," indicating a sovereign plan for both suffering and subsequent restoration. This verse stands as a pivotal messianic prophecy, directly foreshadowing the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ and its immediate impact on His disciples.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Zechariah 13:7 is situated within the latter half of the book of Zechariah (chapters 9-14), often referred to as "The Burden of the Word of the LORD concerning Israel." This section shifts from earlier prophetic visions to a more eschatological focus, detailing future events related to Judah, Jerusalem, the coming Messiah, and the ultimate establishment of God's kingdom. Chapters 12-14 specifically describe the final conflict, the pouring out of the Spirit, and the purification of Israel. Immediately preceding Zechariah 13:7, the chapter speaks of a future time of spiritual cleansing, where idolatry and false prophets will be removed from the land ([Zechariah 13:1-6](/zechariah/13-1-6 "Zechariah 13:1-6 - Purification from Idolatry and False Prophecy")). Verse 7 marks a dramatic turning point, introducing the necessary suffering of a divine shepherd as the catalyst for the ultimate purification and restoration that follows, leading directly into the refining fire imagery of [Zechariah 13:8-9](/zechariah/13-8-9 "Zechariah 13:8-9 - The Refining of the Remnant").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Zechariah prophesied to the Jewish community that had returned from Babylonian exile, a people struggling to rebuild their temple, their city, and their national identity. They lived under Persian rule, yearning for the full restoration of God's covenant promises and the coming of the Messiah. In ancient Israel, the "shepherd" was a common metaphor for leaders—kings, priests, and prophets—who were responsible for guiding and protecting God's people. The concept of a shepherd being "smitten" and the flock scattered would have evoked images of leadership failure or catastrophic defeat, yet here, the command comes from God Himself, indicating a divinely ordained suffering. The idea of a "fellow" or "neighbor" (`'amiti`) carried significant weight in a covenantal society, denoting a close relationship within the community, but its application here to one who is God's "fellow" elevates the figure beyond mere humanity.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several profound theological and narrative themes central to Zechariah's prophecy and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the **Divine Sovereignty and Judgment**, emphasizing that even the suffering of the shepherd is not a random event but a direct command from the "LORD of hosts," underscoring God's ultimate control over history and His purposes. Secondly, the verse introduces the theme of the **Suffering Shepherd and His Unique Identity**, portraying a leader who is both a "shepherd" to the people and intimately connected to God as His "fellow," foreshadowing a figure of divine nature who must suffer for the sake of His flock. Lastly, it addresses the **Consequences of the Shepherd's Suffering and God's Redemptive Care**, showing that while the smiting leads to the immediate scattering of the "sheep," God's hand will ultimately "turn upon the little ones," signifying His protective, refining, and restorative work among a vulnerable remnant, leading them to a deeper, purified relationship with Him, as further elaborated in [Zechariah 13:9](/zechariah/13-9 "Zechariah 13:9 - God's Refining Fire").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **sword (Hebrew, _chereb'_):** This word, derived from a root meaning "drought," refers to a cutting instrument, specifically a sword, knife, or other sharp implement, often associated with destructive effect. In this context, the "sword" is personified and commanded by God, acting as an instrument of divine judgment against the shepherd. It signifies the violent, divinely orchestrated means by which the shepherd's life will be taken.
* **fellow (Hebrew, _ʻâmîyth'_):** This rare and highly significant term denotes one who is closely associated, a companion, or an equal. It suggests a bond of intimate companionship or even parity. When God refers to the shepherd as "my fellow," it points to an extraordinary, unique relationship that transcends typical human-divine interaction, strongly implying the shepherd's divine nature or a unique partnership with God.
* **smite (Hebrew, _nâkâh'_):** A primitive root meaning "to strike," "beat," "kill," or "slay." It can refer to both light and severe striking, literally or figuratively. Here, it signifies a decisive and fatal blow, a divinely commanded act of violence that results in the death of the shepherd. The repetition of the command ("Awake, O sword... smite the shepherd") underscores the intentionality and certainty of this act.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Awake, O sword, against my shepherd,"**: This opening phrase is a powerful, direct divine command. The "sword" is personified, called to action by the LORD, indicating that the suffering of the shepherd is not an accident but a preordained act of God's sovereign will. The term "my shepherd" immediately establishes a unique, possessive relationship between God and this particular shepherd, setting him apart from ordinary human leaders.
* **"and against the man [that is] my fellow, saith the LORD of hosts:"**: This clause further identifies the shepherd, adding the crucial descriptor "the man [that is] my fellow." The Hebrew term for "fellow" (`'amith`) implies a close associate, a companion, or even one who is equal or intimately related. This profound designation, spoken by "the LORD of hosts" (a title emphasizing God's supreme authority and power), points to the shepherd's extraordinary, possibly divine, nature and His intimate relationship with God the Father.
* **"smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered:"**: This is the core command and its immediate, predicted consequence. The divine instruction to "smite" (a fatal blow) the shepherd directly causes the "sheep" (the shepherd's followers or the people of Israel) to be "scattered." This vividly illustrates the vulnerability and disorientation of a flock when its leader is removed, leading to disarray and dispersal.
* **"and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones."**: Despite the chaos and scattering, this final clause offers a profound promise of divine intervention and care. The phrase "turn mine hand upon" signifies God's active involvement, not in judgment against them, but in a protective, refining, and restorative manner. The "little ones" refer to the vulnerable, the remnant, or those who remain faithful, indicating God's special attention and intention to purify and preserve them through the trials.

#### Literary Devices
Zechariah 13:7 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its prophetic message. **Personification** is evident in the direct address, "Awake, O sword," giving the inanimate sword agency and highlighting its role as an instrument of divine judgment. This emphasizes that the suffering is not random but a deliberate, willed act. The verse also utilizes a vivid **Metaphor** where the "shepherd" represents a leader, and the "sheep" represent his followers or the people. This common biblical imagery effectively conveys the relationship between a spiritual guide and his flock, and the devastating impact of the leader's demise on those he guides. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a profound **Prophecy** and **Foreshadowing**, pointing forward to a future event of immense theological significance. The direct command from God, "saith the LORD of hosts," underscores the nature of this passage as a **Divine Decree**, an unalterable pronouncement from the sovereign God that will inevitably come to pass.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse is a cornerstone of Old Testament messianic prophecy, revealing God's sovereign plan for the suffering of His unique Shepherd. Theologically, it underscores the necessity of a substitutionary sacrifice for the purification of God's people. The "shepherd" being God's "fellow" points to a figure of divine essence, whose suffering is not merely human but carries infinite redemptive weight. The scattering of the flock highlights the immediate consequence of this sacrifice, yet God's subsequent turning of His hand upon the "little ones" reveals His unwavering commitment to preserve and refine a faithful remnant, ensuring that His ultimate redemptive purposes are fulfilled even through profound suffering and apparent chaos. This passage beautifully weaves together themes of divine judgment, vicarious suffering, and ultimate restoration.

* [Matthew 26:31](/matthew/26-31 "Matthew 26:31 - Jesus quotes Zechariah 13:7")
* [Mark 14:27](/mark/14-27 "Mark 14:27 - Jesus quotes Zechariah 13:7")
* [Isaiah 53:4-6](/isaiah/53-4-6 "Isaiah 53:4-6 - The Suffering Servant")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Zechariah 13:7 offers profound insights for believers today, primarily by deepening our understanding of the nature and necessity of Christ's suffering. It reminds us that Jesus' crucifixion was not a tragic accident but a divinely orchestrated event, part of God's eternal plan for salvation. This truth should lead us to greater awe and gratitude for the depth of God's love and the cost of our redemption. Furthermore, the scattering of the sheep and God's subsequent care for the "little ones" provides comfort and assurance. In times of crisis, confusion, or spiritual disorientation, we are reminded that even when leaders fall or circumstances seem chaotic, God's sovereign hand is still at work. He does not abandon His people but actively works to refine, protect, and restore those who remain vulnerable and dependent on Him. This verse calls us to trust in God's overarching plan, even when it involves suffering, knowing that He is always working for our ultimate good and purification.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding Zechariah 13:7 as a divinely ordained prophecy deepen your appreciation for Christ's sacrifice?**
* **In what ways have you experienced "scattering" or disorientation in your faith journey, and how does the promise of God's hand on the "little ones" bring you comfort?**
* **What does the description of the shepherd as God's "fellow" imply about Jesus' identity, and how does this affect your worship?**

### FAQ

**Who is the "shepherd" and "fellow" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "shepherd" in Zechariah 13:7 is a prophetic figure, unequivocally identified by Jesus Himself as referring to Him. In [Matthew 26:31](/matthew/26-31 "Matthew 26:31 - Jesus quotes Zechariah 13:7") and [Mark 14:27](/mark/14-27 "Mark 14:27 - Jesus quotes Zechariah 13:7"), Jesus quotes this very verse on the night of His arrest, stating that His disciples would be scattered because of His impending "smiting." The term "the man [that is] my fellow" is particularly significant. The Hebrew word `ʻâmîyth` (H5997) denotes a close associate, a companion, or even an equal. When God calls this shepherd "my fellow," it points to a unique, intimate relationship that suggests the shepherd shares in God's very nature or essence. This strongly supports the Christian understanding that the shepherd is the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who is both fully human ("the man") and fully divine, sharing equality with God the Father ([Philippians 2:6](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6 - Christ's Equality with God")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Zechariah 13:7 finds its profound and direct fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself, on the night of His betrayal, quoted this very prophecy to His disciples, declaring, "All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written: 'I will strike the Shepherd, And the sheep of the flock will be scattered'" ([Matthew 26:31](/matthew/26-31 "Matthew 26:31 - Jesus quotes Zechariah 13:7")). Here, Jesus unequivocally identifies Himself as the "shepherd" whom God would "smite." This "smiting" refers to His crucifixion, a divinely ordained act that, though carried out by human hands, was part of God's sovereign plan for salvation ([Acts 2:23](/acts/2-23 "Acts 2:23 - God's Sovereign Plan")). The phrase "the man [that is] my fellow" powerfully points to Jesus' unique identity as the God-man, truly human yet co-equal with God the Father ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "The Word was God"); [John 10:30](/john/10-30 "I and the Father are one")). His death led to the immediate scattering of His disciples ([John 16:32](/john/16-32 "Disciples scattered")), fulfilling the prophecy that "the sheep shall be scattered." However, the prophecy does not end in despair. God's promise, "I will turn mine hand upon the little ones," finds its fulfillment in Christ's resurrection, the gathering of His church, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, through which God protects, refines, and empowers His vulnerable followers ([John 14:18](/john/14-18 "I will not leave you orphans"); [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Power of the Holy Spirit")). Thus, Zechariah 13:7 beautifully encapsulates the suffering of the Messiah, the temporary disarray of His followers, and God's ultimate, redemptive care for His new covenant people, the church.

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

Mark 14:27

And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered.

Matthew 26:31

¶ Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.

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.

John 16:32

Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.

Mark 14:50

And they all forsook him, and fled.

Ezekiel 37:24

And David my servant [shall be] king over them; and they all shall have one shepherd: they shall also walk in my judgments, and observe my statutes, and do them.

Zechariah 11:7

And I will feed the flock of slaughter, [even] you, O poor of the flock. And I took unto me two staves; the one I called Beauty, and the other I called Bands; and I fed the flock.