Zechariah 11:17 Meaning and Explanation
“Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword shall be upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A woe falls on the worthless shepherd who abandons the flock; his arm and right eye, his strength and sight, will be struck and ruined.
What Does Zechariah 11:17 Mean?
The chapter ends with a cry of woe against the worthless shepherd who deserts the flock. Judgment falls on the very faculties he failed to use: the sword strikes his arm, the strength that should have defended, and his right eye, the sight that should have watched over the sheep. The arm withers and the eye goes dark.
God holds accountable those who take up the shepherd's office and abandon its trust. The strength and vision given for service, if turned to selfishness, are taken away. Yet the woe pronounced on the false shepherd is itself good news, for it declares that God will not leave His flock forever to those who harm it, but will vindicate the sheep and honor the faithful Shepherd.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zechariah 11:17
What does Zechariah 11:17 mean?
A woe falls on the worthless shepherd who abandons the flock; his arm and right eye, his strength and sight, will be struck and ruined.