Zechariah 7:11

But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder; they stopped up their ears from hearing.

Study Bible

But they refused
The Hebrew word for "refused" is "מָאֲנוּ" (ma'anu), which conveys a deliberate and willful rejection. This phrase highlights the conscious decision of the people to reject God's message. Historically, this reflects the persistent disobedience of Israel, despite numerous warnings from prophets. It serves as a reminder of the human tendency to resist divine guidance, emphasizing the importance of humility and openness to God's word.

to pay attention
The phrase "to pay attention" translates from the Hebrew "לְהַקְשִׁיב" (lehaqshiv), meaning to listen or heed. This implies not just hearing but actively engaging with and responding to the message. In the biblical context, paying attention to God’s word is crucial for spiritual growth and obedience. The failure to do so often leads to spiritual decline, as seen in Israel's history.

and turned a stubborn shoulder
The imagery of "a stubborn shoulder" comes from the Hebrew "וַיִּתְּנוּ כָּתֵף סֹרֶרֶת" (vayitnu katef soreret), suggesting resistance and defiance. This metaphor paints a picture of an ox that refuses to bear the yoke, symbolizing Israel's unwillingness to submit to God's authority. It serves as a cautionary image of the dangers of pride and self-will, urging believers to embrace a posture of submission and obedience.

they stopped up their ears
The phrase "stopped up their ears" is derived from the Hebrew "וְאֶת־אָזְנֵיהֶם הִכְבִּידוּ" (ve'et-ozneihem hikhbidu), meaning to make their ears heavy or dull. This indicates a deliberate act of ignoring or blocking out God's voice. In a spiritual sense, it warns against the hardening of the heart, which can lead to spiritual deafness and separation from God’s truth.

from hearing
The Hebrew word for "hearing" is "מִשְּׁמֹעַ" (mishmoa), which implies understanding and obedience, not just the physical act of hearing. This highlights the importance of not only listening to God’s word but also allowing it to transform and guide one's life. The historical context of Israel’s repeated failure to heed God’s warnings serves as a powerful lesson for believers to cultivate a responsive and obedient heart.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A prophet who ministered to the people of Judah after their return from Babylonian exile. His messages often called for repentance and spiritual renewal.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which had been exiled to Babylon but was now returning to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple.

3. The People of Judah
The audience of Zechariah's prophecy, who were being admonished for their disobedience and hard-heartedness.

4. The Exile
The period when the people of Judah were taken captive to Babylon, a significant event that shaped their identity and relationship with God.

5. The Return
The period when the exiles returned to Judah, a time of rebuilding and spiritual reflection.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Spiritual Deafness
Ignoring God's voice leads to spiritual stagnation and separation from His will. We must cultivate a heart that is open and responsive to His guidance.

The Consequences of Stubbornness
A stubborn heart can lead to missed opportunities for growth and blessing. We should strive to be pliable and teachable in our walk with God.

The Importance of Active Listening
True listening involves more than hearing words; it requires understanding and acting upon God's instructions. We should practice active listening in our spiritual lives.

Repentance and Renewal
Just as Zechariah called the people to repentance, we are called to examine our hearts and turn back to God when we stray.

Community Accountability
The collective disobedience of Judah serves as a reminder of the importance of community accountability in maintaining faithfulness to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day examples of "turning a stubborn shoulder" to God's instructions, and how can we avoid this in our own lives?

2. How does the pattern of disobedience in Zechariah 7:11 compare to other instances in the Bible, such as in Jeremiah 7:24 or Acts 7:51?

3. In what ways can we practice active listening to God's voice in our daily routines?

4. How can we encourage one another within our faith communities to remain open and responsive to God's guidance?

5. Reflect on a time when you resisted God's direction. What steps did you take to realign yourself with His will, and what was the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 7:24
This verse similarly describes the people's refusal to listen to God, highlighting a pattern of disobedience and stubbornness.

Isaiah 6:10
This passage speaks of the people's hearts being hardened, their ears dull, and their eyes closed, which parallels the imagery in Zechariah 7:11.

Acts 7:51
Stephen accuses the Jewish leaders of being stiff-necked and resisting the Holy Spirit, echoing the stubbornness described in Zechariah.