Zechariah 11:15

Authorized King James Version

And the LORD said unto me, Take unto thee yet the instruments of a foolish shepherd.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיֹּ֥אמֶר

H559

said

to say (used with great latitude)

יְהוָ֖ה

H3068

And the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֵלָ֑י

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

ע֣וֹד

H5750

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

קַח

H3947

unto me Take

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

לְךָ֔

כְּלִ֖י

H3627

unto thee yet the instruments

something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)

רֹעֶ֥ה

H7462

shepherd

to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie

אֱוִלִֽי׃

H196

of a foolish

silly, foolish; hence (morally) impious

Analysis

Within the broader context of Zechariah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Zechariah.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Zechariah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?