Zechariah 11:7 Meaning and Explanation
“And I will feed the flock of slaughter, even you, O poor of the flock. And I took unto me two staves; the one I called Beauty, and the other I called Bands; and I fed the flock.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The prophet shepherds the afflicted flock, taking two staffs named Beauty and Bands, and tends the sheep.
What Does Zechariah 11:7 Mean?
Obeying the charge, the prophet takes up the shepherd's role for the poor and oppressed of the flock. He carries two staffs, naming one Beauty (or Favor) and the other Bands (or Union), each standing for a gift God extends to His people: His gracious favor and the bond that binds them together. With these he feeds the flock.
The two staffs picture what a true shepherd brings: the grace of God's pleasure resting on His people and the unity that holds them as one. That a shepherd would give particular care to the poorest sheep reveals the heart of God for the lowly. It points ahead to Christ, who gathers the weak and broken under His tender, faithful keeping.
Zechariah 11:7 in the Original Language
no'am (נֹעַם), 'beauty' -- delight or favor, the gracious pleasantness of God toward His flock.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zechariah 11:7
What does Zechariah 11:7 mean?
The prophet shepherds the afflicted flock, taking two staffs named Beauty and Bands, and tends the sheep.