The Staff Called Favor is a symbolic object mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Zechariah. It is one of two staffs that the prophet Zechariah is instructed to take as part of a prophetic sign-act, the other being called "Union." These staffs are emblematic of God's relationship with His people, Israel, and serve as a representation of His covenant and the unity He desires among them.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to the Staff Called Favor is found in Zechariah 11:7-14. In this passage, Zechariah is acting out a prophecy concerning the fate of Israel and the breaking of God's covenant with them due to their disobedience and rejection of His shepherding care.

Symbolism and Meaning:

1. Favor and Grace: The Staff Called Favor symbolizes God's grace and favor towards His people. It represents the blessings and protection that God extends to Israel as part of His covenantal relationship. The staff is a tangible sign of God's goodwill and the special status of Israel as His chosen people.

2. Covenant Relationship: The breaking of the Staff Called Favor, as described in Zechariah 11:10, signifies the annulment of the covenant God had made with the nations. This act is a dramatic portrayal of the consequences of Israel's unfaithfulness and the resulting withdrawal of divine favor. The breaking of the staff serves as a warning of the serious repercussions of turning away from God's commands and guidance.

3. Prophetic Judgment: The narrative in Zechariah 11 is a prophetic judgment against the leaders and people of Israel who have failed to uphold their part of the covenant. The breaking of the Staff Called Favor is a symbolic act that prefigures the coming judgment and the scattering of the people due to their persistent rebellion and rejection of God's appointed shepherds.

4. Messianic Implications: Some conservative Christian interpretations see the breaking of the Staff Called Favor as foreshadowing the rejection of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, by the Jewish leaders and people. This rejection leads to the opening of God's favor to the Gentiles, as the covenantal blessings are extended beyond Israel to all who believe in Christ.

Theological Insights:

The Staff Called Favor highlights the conditional nature of God's covenant with Israel, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and obedience. It serves as a reminder of God's desire to bless His people and the tragic consequences of rejecting His grace. The imagery of the staff underscores the seriousness of covenantal relationships and the divine expectation of loyalty and righteousness.

In summary, the Staff Called Favor is a powerful symbol within the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, illustrating the dynamics of God's covenant with His people and the profound impact of their response to His divine favor.