The imagery of the two staffs, Favor and Union, is found in the prophetic book of Zechariah, specifically in Zechariah 11:7-14. This passage is rich with symbolism and has been the subject of much theological reflection and interpretation within the Christian tradition.

Context and Background

Zechariah, a post-exilic prophet, ministered to the Jewish community that had returned from Babylonian exile. His prophecies often addressed the restoration of Jerusalem and the coming of the Messiah. In Zechariah 11, the prophet is instructed to assume the role of a shepherd, symbolizing God's leadership over His people. The chapter is a complex narrative that includes themes of judgment, rejection, and the consequences of disobedience.

The Two Staffs

1. Favor (Beauty/Grace)

The first staff, named Favor, represents God's grace and benevolence towards His people. It signifies the covenantal relationship and the blessings that come from obedience to God's commands. In Zechariah 11:10, the breaking of the staff Favor symbolizes the annulment of God's covenant with the nations, reflecting a withdrawal of divine protection and blessing due to the people's unfaithfulness. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Then I took my staff called Favor and cut it in pieces, to break the covenant I had made with all the nations."

2. Union (Bonds/Brotherhood)

The second staff, named Union, symbolizes the unity and brotherhood among the people of Israel. It represents the social and spiritual cohesion that God desires for His people. The breaking of this staff, as described in Zechariah 11:14, signifies the fracturing of this unity, leading to division and discord. The BSB records: "Then I cut in pieces my second staff called Union, breaking the brotherhood between Judah and Israel."

Theological Significance

The breaking of the two staffs serves as a prophetic act illustrating the consequences of Israel's rejection of God's shepherding. It foreshadows the coming judgment and the eventual scattering of the people. From a Christian perspective, this passage is often seen as a prelude to the rejection of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, by the Jewish leaders and the subsequent opening of the covenant to the Gentiles.

The staffs also highlight the dual aspects of God's relationship with His people: grace and unity. Favor underscores the importance of living under God's grace, while Union emphasizes the necessity of maintaining harmony and brotherhood within the community of believers.

Messianic Implications

Christian interpreters have traditionally seen Zechariah 11 as a messianic prophecy, with the breaking of the staffs pointing to the rejection of Christ. The thirty pieces of silver mentioned in Zechariah 11:12-13, which the prophet is paid for his shepherding, is seen as a direct prophecy of Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus, as recorded in the New Testament (Matthew 26:14-16; 27:3-10).

Conclusion

The narrative of the two staffs, Favor and Union, serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of rejecting God's guidance and the importance of maintaining both divine favor and communal unity. It is a call to recognize the ultimate Shepherd, Jesus Christ, and to live in accordance with His teachings, fostering grace and unity within the body of believers.