Ezekiel 34:21

Since you shove with flank and shoulder, butting all the weak ones with your horns until you have scattered them abroad,

Study Bible

Since you shove with flank and shoulder
This phrase paints a vivid picture of aggressive and selfish behavior. The Hebrew word for "shove" is "נָגַח" (nagach), which often refers to the act of butting or pushing with force, typically associated with animals like oxen or goats. In the context of Ezekiel 34, this imagery is used metaphorically to describe the leaders of Israel who, instead of caring for the flock, are aggressively asserting their dominance and causing harm. The "flank and shoulder" symbolize strength and power, indicating that these leaders are using their positions of authority to oppress and exploit the weaker members of the community. Historically, this reflects a time when the leaders of Israel were failing in their God-given duty to shepherd the people with justice and compassion.

and butt all the weak ones with your horns
The act of butting with "horns" further emphasizes the aggressive and harmful actions of the leaders. In ancient Near Eastern culture, horns are often symbols of power and strength. The Hebrew word "קֶרֶן" (qeren) for "horns" suggests a forceful and violent action, akin to a powerful animal using its horns to assert dominance or inflict injury. This metaphor highlights the leaders' abuse of power, as they are not just neglecting the weak but actively harming them. The "weak ones" represent the vulnerable members of society who are being mistreated. This imagery serves as a stark reminder of the responsibility of leaders to protect and nurture those under their care, rather than exploiting them for personal gain.

until you have scattered them abroad
The consequence of such aggressive behavior is the scattering of the flock. The Hebrew word "פָּרַץ" (parats) for "scattered" conveys a sense of breaking or bursting forth, indicating a forceful dispersion. This scattering is not just a physical separation but also a spiritual and communal disintegration. Historically, this reflects the period of exile and the breakdown of the community of Israel due to the failure of its leaders. The phrase serves as a warning of the destructive consequences of selfish leadership and the importance of unity and care within the community. It underscores the biblical principle that leaders are called to gather and protect the flock, fostering an environment where all members can thrive.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet in the Old Testament, Ezekiel was called by God to deliver messages to the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. His prophecies often included visions and symbolic actions.

2. Israel
The nation of God's chosen people, who were in exile in Babylon at the time of Ezekiel's prophecies. They are often depicted as sheep in need of a shepherd.

3. Shepherds of Israel
These are the leaders of Israel, both religious and political, who were supposed to care for the people but instead exploited them.

4. The Fat Sheep and the Lean Sheep
Symbolic representations of the powerful and the oppressed within the community of Israel. The "fat sheep" are those who have taken advantage of others.

5. God as the True Shepherd
In contrast to the unfaithful human shepherds, God promises to be the true shepherd who will care for His people.

Teaching Points

The Responsibility of Leadership
Leaders are accountable to God for how they treat those under their care. Just as the shepherds of Israel were judged for their failure, leaders today must ensure they are serving rather than exploiting.

God's Justice and Care
God sees the injustices and will act to protect and provide for His people. Believers can trust in God's ultimate justice and care, even when human leaders fail.

The Call to Be Shepherds
Every believer is called to reflect God's shepherding heart by caring for others, especially the vulnerable and oppressed. This involves actively seeking justice and mercy in our communities.

Repentance and Restoration
The passage calls for self-examination and repentance for those who have acted like the "fat sheep." God offers restoration and healing for those who turn back to Him.

The Role of Jesus as the Good Shepherd
Jesus fulfills the promise of God to be the true shepherd. Believers are invited to follow His example and trust in His guidance and protection.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of sheep and shepherds in Ezekiel 34:21 help us understand the relationship between God and His people?

2. In what ways can we identify "fat sheep" behaviors in our own lives or communities, and how can we address them?

3. How does the promise of God as the true shepherd in Ezekiel 34 encourage us in times of leadership failure or injustice?

4. What practical steps can we take to reflect God's shepherding heart in our daily interactions with others?

5. How does Jesus' role as the Good Shepherd in the New Testament fulfill the promises made in Ezekiel 34, and what does this mean for our faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 23
This psalm portrays God as the Good Shepherd, providing and caring for His flock, which contrasts with the neglectful shepherds in Ezekiel 34.

John 10
Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd, echoing the promise of God to shepherd His people directly, as seen in Ezekiel 34.

Matthew 25:31-46
The parable of the sheep and the goats highlights the importance of caring for the "least of these," similar to the call for justice in Ezekiel 34.