◄ Zechariah 11 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Doomed Flock 1Open your doors, O Lebanon, that the fire may consume your cedars! 2Wail, O cypress,a for the cedar has fallen; the majestic trees are ruined! Wail, O oaks of Bashan, for the dense forest has been cut down! 3Listen to the wailing of the shepherds, for their glory is in ruins. Listen to the roaring of the young lions, for the thickets of the Jordan are destroyed. 4This is what the LORD my God says: “Pasture the flock marked for slaughter, 5whose buyers slaughter them without remorse. Those who sell them say, ‘Blessed be the LORD, for I am rich!’ Even their own shepherds have no compassion on them. 6For I will no longer have compassion on the people of the land, declares the LORD, but behold, I will cause each man to fall into the hands of his neighbor and his king, who will devastate the land, and I will not deliver it from their hands.” 7So I pastured the flock marked for slaughter, especially the afflicted of the flock. Then I took for myself two staffs, calling one Favor and the other Union, and I pastured the flock. 8And in one month I dismissed three shepherds. My soul grew impatient with the flock, and their souls also detested me. 9Then I said, “I will no longer shepherd you. Let the dying die, and the perishing perish; and let those who remain devour one another’s flesh.” Thirty Pieces of Silver (Matthew 27:3–10) 10Next I took my staff called Favor and cut it in two,b revoking the covenant I had made with all the nations. 11It was revoked on that day, and so the afflicted of the flock who were watching me knew that it was the word of the LORD. 12Then I told them, “If it seems right to you, give me my wages; but if not, keep them.” So they weighed out my wages, thirty pieces of silver. 13And the LORD said to me, “Throw it to the potter”—this magnificent price at which they valued me. So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them to the potter in the house of the LORD. 14Then I cut in two my second staff called Union, breaking the brotherhood between Judah and Israel. 15And the LORD said to me: “Take up once more the equipment of a foolish shepherd. 16For behold, I will raise up a shepherd in the land who will neither care for the lost, nor seek the young, nor heal the broken, nor sustain the healthy, but he will devour the flesh of the choice sheep and tear off their hooves. 17Woe to the worthless shepherd, who deserts the flock! May a sword strike his arm and his right eye! May his arm be completely withered and his right eye utterly blinded!” Footnotes: 2 a Or pine or juniper or fir 10 b Or broke it; similarly in verse 14 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Zechariah 11 Summary Thirty Pieces of Silver Verses 1–3 – The Coming Devastation Lebanon, Bashan, and the Jordan valley are called to cry out as their grand forests are burned and the shepherds who once tended flocks there mourn. The scene pictures an invading force sweeping down through the land, leaving nature and people alike in ruins. Verses 4–6 – A Flock Doomed to Slaughter The LORD tells Zechariah, “Pasture the flock marked for slaughter.” The prophet’s actions dramatize how Israel’s leaders sell their own people for profit while foreign buyers go unpunished. God declares that He will withdraw pity, handing the nation over to harsh rulers. Verses 7–11 – The Staff Called Favor Broken Zechariah shepherds the flock using two staffs: Favor (grace) and Unity (binding together). Three corrupt shepherds are dismissed in one month, but the flock detests the good shepherd. When Favor is broken, the prophet says, “So the covenant I had made with all the peoples was broken,” signaling the lifting of divine protection. Verses 12–13 – Thirty Pieces of Silver Asked for his wages, Zechariah receives “thirty pieces of silver,” the compensation for a gored slave (Exodus 21:32). The LORD calls it “the handsome price at which they valued Me,” then instructs the prophet to throw it to the potter in the temple—an acted-out insult that foreshadows Judas’s betrayal of Jesus (Matthew 27:3–10). Verse 14 – The Staff Called Unity Broken With “Unity” snapped in two, the bond between Judah and Israel is symbolically severed. Internal cohesion is lost, paving the way for Gentile domination. Verses 15–17 – The Foolish Shepherd Zechariah now portrays a worthless shepherd who cares nothing for the flock, devours the fat sheep, and tears at the weak. The chapter ends with a woe: “May the sword strike his arm and his right eye! His arm will be withered and his right eye blinded.” The stage is set for a future false ruler who will be judged by God. Zechariah 11 is a dramatic prophecy delivered by the prophet Zechariah. It details God's displeasure with the shepherds of His people, who have failed in their responsibilities, and forecasts the dire consequences of rejecting God's true Shepherd. Symbolic actions carried out by Zechariah embody the weight of these themes, showing the disastrous impact of turning away from divine guidance. Historical Setting • Zechariah ministered around 520–518 BC, after the Babylonian exile. • The second temple was being rebuilt, yet political independence was fragile. • Chapter 11 looks ahead to later tragedies—the Roman conquest of AD 70 fits the imagery of forests burned and shepherds wailing, though earlier devastations (e.g., the Seleucid and Hasmonean eras) also echo the prophecy. Literary Structure and Imagery • Forests and lions: Common prophetic shorthand for powerful nations (Isaiah 10:33-34; Jeremiah 25:34-38). • Two staffs: Shepherds often carried two rods—one for defense, one for care (Psalm 23:4). Here they become visual aids that God’s grace (Favor) and covenant unity can be removed. • Thirty pieces of silver: A deliberate use of Israel’s legal minimum for a slave’s life—intended to shock. Shepherd Symbolism in Scripture 1. God as the Good Shepherd—Psalm 23; Ezekiel 34:11-16. 2. Corrupt human shepherds—Ezekiel 34:1-10; Jeremiah 23:1-2. 3. Messiah as the ultimate Shepherd—John 10:11,14; Hebrews 13:20. Zechariah 11 holds all three strands: God’s ideal care, failed leaders, and a future counterfeit shepherd. Prophetic Fulfillment in the Life of Jesus • Betrayal price: Matthew 26:14-16 records Judas agreeing to “thirty pieces of silver.” • Temple and potter: Matthew 27:5-10 cites Zechariah when the money is used to buy “the potter’s field.” • Withdrawal of Favor: Jesus weeps over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41-44) and warns of its desolation (Matthew 23:37-38), paralleling the broken staff. • Division among the people: John 7:43; John 9:16 show the nation split over Jesus, reflecting the broken Unity. Thirty Pieces of Silver and the Potter Archaeology has unearthed first-century potters’ workshops just south of the Temple Mount, in the Hinnom Valley—the likely location of the “Potter’s Field.” A slave’s indemnity equaling one month’s pay for a common laborer underscores the nation’s contempt for its shepherd. Broken Staves: Favor and Unity Favor (grace): God suspends His special hedge, seen historically in the loss of self-rule and, spiritually, in many Israelites missing their Messiah (Romans 11:7-8). Unity: Civil strife ravaged Judea before the Romans entered. Josephus describes rival Jewish factions burning each other’s grain supplies during the siege of Jerusalem—living proof of the broken staff. The Foolish Shepherd and End-Times Expectations • Characteristics: Self-serving, violent, negligent. • New Testament link: Jesus warns of future deceivers (Matthew 24:24). Paul speaks of a “man of lawlessness” (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4). Revelation 13 pictures a beast demanding worship, matching Zechariah’s worthless shepherd who harms the flock. • Outcome: Divine judgment disables his power (“arm”) and perception (“right eye”), echoing God’s final victory over evil leaders (Revelation 19:19-21). Archaeological and Cultural Notes • Shepherd’s tools: Ancient Judean shepherds carried two staffs, evidenced by engravings from Lachish. • Cedars of Lebanon: Highly prized timber; their burning signified not just lost trees but lost commerce and temple beams. • Thirty silver shekels: A shekel weighed roughly 11 grams. Thirty shekels equaled about four months’ wages for a common worker—sizable, yet still the price of a slave. Applications for Today • Valuing the true Shepherd: How a community treats its godly leaders often mirrors its attitude toward God Himself. • Guarding unity: Internal division invites external defeat; cultivating grace among believers remains essential (Ephesians 4:3). • Discernment: Not every shepherd is genuine. Evaluate leaders by their care for the weak and their fidelity to God’s Word (John 10:12-13). • Hope amid judgment: Even as staffs break, God’s long-term plan points to the coming King who gathers and keeps His flock forever (Zechariah 14:9; Revelation 7:17). Connections to Additional Scriptures John 10:11-15 Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd, contrasting His sacrificial love with the neglect of hired hands. Matthew 27:3-10 The fulfillment of the prophecy regarding the thirty pieces of silver in the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot. Ezekiel 34:1-10 A parallel passage that condemns the false shepherds of Israel and promises God's intervention as the true Shepherd. Teaching Points The Destruction of the Shepherds Zechariah 11:1-3 describes the devastation that comes upon the land due to the failure of its leaders. The imagery of the cedars of Lebanon and oaks of Bashan being destroyed symbolizes the downfall of those in power. The Worthless Shepherds In verses 4-17, God commands Zechariah to act out the role of a shepherd, highlighting the contrast between good and bad shepherds. The worthless shepherd (v. 17) is a figure who neglects and exploits the flock, leading to their ruin. The Rejection of the True Shepherd Verses 12-13 depict the rejection of the true shepherd, symbolized by the thirty pieces of silver, a price that reflects contempt and betrayal. This foreshadows the betrayal of Christ, the ultimate Good Shepherd. God's Sovereignty and Judgment Throughout the chapter, God's sovereignty is evident as He allows the consequences of poor leadership to unfold. This serves as a reminder of His ultimate authority and the seriousness of spiritual leadership. Practical Applications Evaluate Leadership Reflect on the qualities of leaders in your life, whether in the church, community, or workplace. Are they shepherding with integrity and care, or are they neglecting their responsibilities? Embrace Christ as the Good Shepherd Recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of the true shepherd, who lays down His life for the sheep. Trust in His guidance and protection in your daily walk. Guard Against Betrayal Be mindful of the ways in which we might betray Christ through our actions or inactions. Seek to live faithfully and honorably in all aspects of life. Pray for Leaders Regularly pray for those in positions of authority, that they may lead with wisdom, compassion, and a heart aligned with God's will. People 1. Zechariah The prophet who is the author of the book. In this chapter, he acts out a symbolic role as a shepherd, representing God's relationship with Israel. 2. The Shepherds These are the leaders of Israel, often seen as corrupt or failing in their duties. The Hebrew term used here is "רֹעִים" (ro'im), which means shepherds or leaders. 3. The Flock Refers to the people of Israel, particularly those who are oppressed or neglected. The Hebrew word "צֹאן" (tso'n) is used, meaning flock or sheep. 4. The Three Shepherds These are symbolic figures representing leaders or groups that God removes in a single month. The specific identity of these shepherds is debated, but they symbolize failed leadership. 5. The Worthless Shepherd A figure representing a future leader who will neglect and harm the flock. This is a prophetic symbol of a leader who does not care for the people. 6. The Buyers and Sellers These are the people who exploit the flock, representing those who profit from the oppression of others. They are not named individually but are part of the narrative. Places 1. Lebanon Zechariah 11:1 mentions Lebanon: "Open your doors, O Lebanon, that the fire may consume your cedars!" Lebanon is known for its majestic cedar trees, which were highly valued in ancient times. The Hebrew word for Lebanon is "לְבָנוֹן" (Levanon), often associated with its lush forests and mountainous terrain. 2. Bashan In Zechariah 11:2, Bashan is referenced: "Wail, O cypress, for the cedar has fallen; the majestic trees are ruined! Wail, oaks of Bashan, for the dense forest has been cut down." Bashan was a region east of the Jordan River, known for its fertile land and strong oaks. The Hebrew term "הַבָּשָׁן" (HaBashan) reflects its historical significance as a place of strength and abundance. Events 1. The Destruction of Lebanon's Cedars Zechariah 11:1-2 describes a call for Lebanon to open its doors so that fire may devour its cedars. The passage uses vivid imagery to depict the destruction of the mighty trees, symbolizing judgment. The Hebrew word for "cedars" (אֲרָזִים, 'arazim) emphasizes strength and majesty, often associated with Lebanon. 2. Wailing of the Shepherds and Lions In Zechariah 11:3, the shepherds wail because their glory is ruined, and the young lions roar because the thickets of the Jordan are laid waste. This reflects the broader devastation affecting both human leaders (shepherds) and natural elements (lions). 3. The Command to Shepherd the Flock Doomed for Slaughter Zechariah 11:4-5 records God's command to Zechariah to shepherd a flock destined for slaughter. The passage highlights the betrayal and exploitation by those who buy and sell the sheep, showing a lack of compassion and justice. 4. The Two Staffs: Favor and Union In Zechariah 11:7, Zechariah takes two staffs, naming one "Favor" (נֹעַם, No'am) and the other "Union" (חֹבְלִים, Hoblim). These staffs symbolize God's covenant and unity with His people, which are later broken as a sign of judgment. 5. The Rejection of the Shepherd Zechariah 11:8-9 describes the rejection of the shepherd by the flock. The shepherd becomes impatient with them, and they detest him. This reflects the people's rejection of God's guidance and the resulting consequences. 6. Breaking of the Staff Favor In Zechariah 11:10, Zechariah breaks the staff called Favor, symbolizing the annulment of God's covenant with the nations. This act signifies the withdrawal of divine protection and blessing. 7. The Thirty Pieces of Silver Zechariah 11:12-13 recounts the payment of thirty pieces of silver for Zechariah's service, which he sarcastically calls a "handsome price." The Lord instructs him to throw it to the potter, symbolizing the worthlessness of the people's valuation of God's shepherd. 8. Breaking of the Staff Union Zechariah 11:14 describes the breaking of the second staff, Union, symbolizing the dissolution of the brotherhood between Judah and Israel. This act represents the division and disunity among God's people. 9. The Rise of a Worthless Shepherd In Zechariah 11:15-17, God instructs Zechariah to take up the equipment of a foolish shepherd, symbolizing the rise of a leader who will not care for the flock. This worthless shepherd neglects and exploits the sheep, leading to further judgment. Lessons from Zechariah 11 1. The Consequences of Rejection In Zechariah 11, we see a vivid portrayal of what happens when people reject God's guidance. The chapter opens with a warning of destruction: "Open your doors, O Lebanon, that the fire may consume your cedars!" (Zechariah 11:1). This serves as a reminder that turning away from God's path can lead to dire consequences. It's a call to remain steadfast in faith and to embrace the wisdom that comes from above. 2. The Role of True Shepherds Zechariah 11 highlights the importance of genuine leadership. God appoints shepherds to guide His flock, but when these leaders fail, the people suffer. "Woe to the worthless shepherd who deserts the flock!" (Zechariah 11:17). This lesson encourages us to seek leaders who are committed to God's truth and to be discerning in whom we follow. 3. The Value of Obedience Obedience to God is a recurring theme in Scripture, and Zechariah 11 is no exception. The chapter illustrates the blessings that come from following God's commands and the chaos that ensues when we stray. "So I pastured the flock marked for slaughter, particularly the oppressed of the flock" (Zechariah 11:7). This serves as a reminder that obedience is not just a duty but a pathway to peace and protection. 4. The Cost of Betrayal Zechariah 11 poignantly foreshadows the betrayal of Christ for thirty pieces of silver. "And they weighed out my wages—thirty pieces of silver" (Zechariah 11:12). This prophecy underscores the gravity of betrayal and the ultimate price of turning against God's anointed. It calls us to examine our own loyalties and to remain faithful to our Savior. 5. The Significance of Covenant The breaking of the covenant in Zechariah 11 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of our relationship with God. "Then I took my staff called Favor and broke it, revoking the covenant I had made with all the nations" (Zechariah 11:10). This act symbolizes the severing of divine protection when we fail to uphold our end of the covenant. It encourages us to cherish and uphold our commitments to God. 6. The Reality of Divine Judgment God's judgment is a central theme in Zechariah 11. The chapter warns of the consequences that befall those who reject His authority. "For I will no longer have pity on the people of the land," declares the LORD (Zechariah 11:6). This serves as a sobering reminder of the reality of divine judgment and the need for repentance and humility before God. 7. The Call to Compassion Amidst the warnings and judgments, Zechariah 11 also calls us to compassion. The shepherd's care for the oppressed flock reflects God's heart for the vulnerable. "So I pastured the flock marked for slaughter, particularly the oppressed of the flock" (Zechariah 11:7). This lesson encourages us to extend God's love and mercy to those in need, reflecting His character in our actions. 8. The Danger of False Security Zechariah 11 warns against placing our trust in false securities. The chapter illustrates how reliance on anything other than God leads to downfall. "Let the dying die, and the perishing perish; let those who are left eat one another’s flesh" (Zechariah 11:9). This stark imagery serves as a caution against the dangers of misplaced trust and the importance of anchoring our hope in God alone. 9. The Power of Prophecy The fulfillment of prophecy in Zechariah 11, particularly regarding the thirty pieces of silver, highlights the power and accuracy of God's Word. This serves as a testament to the reliability of Scripture and the assurance that God's promises will come to pass. It encourages us to delve into the Word with confidence, knowing that it is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. 10. The Hope of Redemption Despite the somber themes, Zechariah 11 ultimately points to the hope of redemption. The chapter foreshadows the coming of Christ, the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep. This hope is encapsulated in the promise of restoration and salvation through Jesus. It reminds us that no matter how bleak the circumstances, God's plan for redemption is always at work, offering us eternal hope and peace. Topics 1. The Destruction of Lebanon and Bashan (Zechariah 11:1-3) This section describes a prophetic vision of destruction coming upon Lebanon and Bashan, symbolized by the opening of Lebanon's doors for fire to devour its cedars. The imagery of the cedar trees, which were highly valued, signifies the downfall of pride and strength. The Hebrew word "אֲרָזִים" (’ărāzîm) for "cedars" emphasizes the grandeur and majesty that will be brought low. 2. The Shepherds and Their Flock (Zechariah 11:4-6) God commands Zechariah to shepherd a flock doomed for slaughter, representing the people of Israel. The passage highlights the betrayal and neglect by the shepherds (leaders) who exploit the flock. The Hebrew term "רֹעִים" (rō‘îm) for "shepherds" underscores their role as caretakers who have failed in their duties. 3. The Two Staffs: Favor and Union (Zechariah 11:7-14) Zechariah takes two staffs, named Favor (Noam) and Union (Hoblim), symbolizing God's covenant and unity with His people. The breaking of these staffs signifies the annulment of God's favor and the disunity among the people. The Hebrew word "נֹעַם" (no‘am) for "Favor" and "חֹבְלִים" (ḥoblîm) for "Union" reflect the intended blessings and harmony that are lost. 4. The Worthless Shepherd (Zechariah 11:15-17) God instructs Zechariah to assume the role of a foolish shepherd, representing leaders who fail to care for the flock. This section prophesies the rise of a worthless shepherd who neglects and harms the sheep. The Hebrew term "אֱוִיל" (’ĕwîl) for "foolish" indicates a lack of wisdom and moral integrity in leadership. Themes 1. Judgment on Unfaithful Leaders Zechariah 11 begins with a pronouncement of judgment against the leaders of Israel, symbolized by the shepherds. The chapter uses imagery of fire and destruction, indicating God's displeasure with those who have failed in their leadership roles. The Hebrew word for "shepherd" (רֹעִים, ro'im) is used metaphorically to represent leaders who have neglected their duties. 2. The Worthless Shepherd The chapter introduces the concept of a "worthless shepherd" who abandons the flock. This theme highlights the consequences of poor leadership and the resulting suffering of the people. The Hebrew term for "worthless" (אֱלִיל, elil) suggests idolatry or futility, emphasizing the shepherd's failure to provide true guidance. 3. The Rejection of the True Shepherd Zechariah 11 also addresses the rejection of the true shepherd, a figure who represents God's appointed leader. The people’s refusal to accept this shepherd leads to their own downfall. The Hebrew root for "reject" (מָאַס, ma'as) conveys a strong sense of disdain and refusal. 4. The Breaking of the Covenants The breaking of the staffs named "Favor" and "Union" symbolizes the dissolution of God's covenant with His people. This theme underscores the seriousness of Israel's disobedience and the resulting loss of divine protection and unity. The Hebrew word for "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit) is central to understanding the gravity of this broken relationship. 5. The Price of Betrayal The chapter mentions the thirty pieces of silver, a price set for the shepherd's dismissal, which prophetically alludes to the betrayal of Jesus in the New Testament. This theme highlights the undervaluation of God's chosen leader and the betrayal by those who should have been faithful. The Hebrew term for "silver" (כֶּסֶף, keseph) is significant in its prophetic implications. 6. Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility Throughout Zechariah 11, there is a tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. God allows the consequences of Israel's choices to unfold, demonstrating His control over history while holding the people accountable for their actions. The Hebrew concept of "sovereignty" (מֶלֶךְ, melek) is implicit in the portrayal of God's ultimate authority over the events described. Prayer Points Pray for discernment to recognize and support godly leaders in your community and church. Ask God to strengthen and guide those in leadership positions, that they may shepherd with integrity and compassion. Seek forgiveness for any ways in which you may have failed to follow Christ faithfully, and ask for the grace to live in alignment with His teachings. Pray for the courage to stand against injustice and to advocate for those who are neglected or oppressed by poor leadership. Answering Tough Questions 1. Zechariah 11:8 refers to three shepherds cut off in a single month—where is the historical or archaeological evidence that this event ever happened? 2. How can the symbolic breaking of the staffs “Favor” and “Union” in Zechariah 11:10 and 14 be reconciled with any known historical or cultural practices? 3. Zechariah 11:12–13 mentions thirty pieces of silver—does this passage genuinely predict Judas’s betrayal, or is it anachronistic in light of New Testament narratives? 4. Why do some scholars argue that Zechariah 11 is a later addition (Deutero-Zechariah), and how might that undermine the chapter’s authenticity and unity with earlier sections? 5. Zechariah 11:15–17 describes a “worthless shepherd”—if this was a genuine prophecy, who historically fulfilled it, and why is there no clear extra-biblical record to confirm it? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Zechariah 11 relate to the overall narrative of Zechariah's prophecy? 2. In what ways does the rejection of the Good Shepherd in Zechariah 11 foreshadow the events of the New Testament? 3. In our modern context, how can we identify and avoid the "worthless shepherd's" traits in leaders today? 4. How does Zechariah's reaction to his wages (thirty pieces of silver) highlight the underappreciation of divine favor and guidance? 5. How can we apply the lessons from the symbolic staffs, Favor and Union, in promoting unity and favor in our community today? 6. How can we use Zechariah 11 to evaluate our own actions as potential shepherds or leaders within our spheres of influence? 7. What does the chapter say about God's attitude towards those who exploit and neglect their responsibilities towards their "flock"? 8. How can we apply Zechariah’s prophecy to understand the consequences of rejecting God's guidance in our personal life? 9. How does the symbolism in Zechariah 11 deepen your understanding of the consequences of disobedience to God? 10. How can we interpret the prophecy of the destruction of Lebanon, Bashan, and Jordan in our contemporary global context? 11. Can we see a parallel between the worthlessness of the shepherd and any aspects of our society today? 12. How does the context of Zechariah 11 enhance your understanding of the Judas' betrayal in the New Testament? 13. In the face of "bad shepherds" or leaders, how should we act as followers of Christ? 14. What lessons about leadership and responsibility can we derive from Zechariah 11 that are applicable to our current societal or personal challenges? 15. How does Zechariah 11 challenge you in your spiritual journey? 16. How can we help others in our community to understand and avoid the pitfalls of the 'worthless shepherd'? 17. If you were in Zechariah's place, how would you feel when your worth was equated to thirty pieces of silver? 18. How can the church ensure that it functions under the guidance of the 'good shepherd' and not fall into the trappings of the 'worthless shepherd'? 19. What are the qualities that make a 'good shepherd' in our modern society? How can you cultivate these qualities in your own life? 20. As you reflect on Zechariah 11, how do you see its relevance and application to the challenges you're facing today? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions