Jeremiah 10:21

For the shepherds have become senseless; they do not seek the LORD. Therefore they have not prospered, and all their flock is scattered.

Study Bible

For the shepherds
The term "shepherds" in this context refers to the leaders of Israel, both spiritual and political. In the Hebrew text, the word used is "רֹעִים" (ro'im), which literally means "shepherds" but is often used metaphorically for leaders. Shepherds were responsible for the care and guidance of their flock, a role that required vigilance, wisdom, and compassion. Historically, shepherds were seen as protectors and providers, and their failure to fulfill these duties would lead to the scattering and vulnerability of the sheep. In the biblical narrative, leaders are often compared to shepherds, with God Himself being the ultimate Shepherd of Israel (Psalm 23). The failure of these shepherds is a recurring theme in the prophetic literature, highlighting the importance of godly leadership.

have become senseless
The Hebrew word here is "בָּעַר" (ba'ar), which can mean to be brutish or foolish. This word choice indicates a lack of understanding or wisdom, suggesting that the leaders have lost their ability to discern and act according to God's will. In the biblical context, wisdom is closely associated with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10), and to be senseless is to be disconnected from divine guidance. The senselessness of the shepherds is a grave indictment, as it implies a willful ignorance or neglect of their responsibilities, leading to disastrous consequences for those they lead.

and do not seek the LORD
Seeking the LORD is a fundamental aspect of a faithful life in the Hebrew Scriptures. The phrase implies a deliberate turning away from God, a failure to pursue His presence, guidance, and wisdom. In the Hebrew, "seek" is "דָּרַשׁ" (darash), which conveys the idea of inquiring, requiring, or worshiping. This neglect is not merely a passive oversight but an active choice to ignore the covenant relationship with God. Throughout the Bible, seeking the LORD is associated with blessing, guidance, and prosperity (2 Chronicles 7:14), and the failure to do so results in spiritual and often physical desolation.

Therefore they have not prospered
The consequence of the shepherds' senselessness and failure to seek the LORD is their lack of prosperity. The Hebrew word for "prospered" is "הִשְׂכִּילוּ" (hiskilu), which can also mean to act wisely or to succeed. This indicates that true prosperity is not merely material wealth but is deeply connected to wisdom and alignment with God's will. The lack of prosperity here is a direct result of the leaders' spiritual failings, underscoring the biblical principle that obedience to God leads to blessing, while disobedience leads to ruin.

and all their flock is scattered
The imagery of a scattered flock is poignant and powerful. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a scattered flock was vulnerable to predators and lacked the safety and provision that a shepherd provides. The scattering of the flock symbolizes the disintegration of the community and the loss of divine protection and guidance. This phrase echoes the consequences of poor leadership and spiritual neglect, as seen in other prophetic writings (Ezekiel 34:5-6). The scattering is both a judgment and a natural outcome of the leaders' failure to fulfill their God-given roles. It serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the need for faithful, God-seeking leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning the judgment and restoration of Israel. He is the author of the Book of Jeremiah.

2. Shepherds
In this context, the term "shepherds" refers to the leaders of Israel, including kings, priests, and prophets, who were responsible for guiding the people spiritually and morally.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people.

4. The Flock
Symbolically represents the people of Israel, who are under the care and guidance of their leaders.

5. Scattering of the Flock
This event symbolizes the dispersion and disarray of the people due to the failure of their leaders to seek and follow God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Seeking God
Leaders must prioritize seeking the LORD to guide their decisions and actions. Without divine guidance, leadership becomes ineffective and harmful.

Consequences of Neglect
When leaders fail to seek God, it leads to the scattering and harm of those they are meant to protect and guide.

Spiritual Leadership
True spiritual leadership involves a deep relationship with God and a commitment to His ways, ensuring the well-being of those under one's care.

Personal Responsibility
While leaders have a significant role, individuals are also responsible for their relationship with God and should seek Him personally.

Restoration through Christ
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, offers restoration and guidance to those who have been scattered and lost due to poor leadership.

Bible Study Questions

1. What characteristics should define a godly leader according to Jeremiah 10:21 and related scriptures?

2. How can we ensure that we are seeking the LORD in our personal lives and leadership roles?

3. In what ways can the failure of leaders impact a community or congregation, and how can this be addressed?

4. How does Jesus' role as the Good Shepherd provide hope and restoration for those who have been scattered?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt spiritually scattered. How did seeking the LORD help you find direction and peace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 34
This chapter also addresses the failure of Israel's shepherds and God's promise to be the true shepherd to His people.

John 10
Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd, contrasting His leadership with that of the false shepherds.

1 Peter 5:2-4
Peter exhorts church leaders to shepherd the flock willingly and eagerly, not for personal gain.