1 Kings 22:17
And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep that have not a shepherd: and the LORD said, These have no master: let them return every man to his house in peace.
1 Kings 22:17 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Kings describes a vision in which the prophet Zechariah sees the people of Israel scattered on the hills like sheep without a shepherd. The imagery of sheep without a shepherd is a common metaphor in the Bible for a people who are lost, vulnerable, and in need of guidance. In this context, the scattering of Israel represents their spiritual and moral disarray, lacking a leader or a central authority to guide them. The Lord's response to this vision is to acknowledge that the people have no master and instructs them to return to their homes in peace. This can be interpreted as a message of reassurance and comfort from God, assuring the people that despite their current state of disarray, they will be cared for and protected, and that they can find peace and security in their own homes. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of having strong leadership and guidance in order to prevent the scattering and disarray of the people.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the image of Israel being scattered like sheep without a shepherd is a powerful metaphor that speaks to the spiritual condition of God's people. The lack of a shepherd represents a lack of guidance and leadership, leaving the people vulnerable and directionless. This imagery is commonly used throughout the Bible to describe the relationship between God and his people, emphasizing the importance of having a wise and faithful leader to guide and protect them.
The phrase "These have no master: let them return every man to his house in peace" highlights the consequences of Israel's spiritual disarray. Without a master or leader, the people are left to fend for themselves and are at risk of harm and danger. The Lord's call for them to return to their homes in peace is a gentle reminder of his desire for their well-being and safety, even in the midst of their spiritual wandering.
Through a theological interpretation of this verse, we are reminded of the importance of having God as our shepherd and master, guiding us through life's challenges and uncertainties. When we stray from his presence, we become like sheep without a shepherd, lost and vulnerable. God's call for us to return to him in peace is a message of hope and restoration, inviting us to find refuge and security in his loving care.
1 Kings 22:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the mountains, as sheep that have no shepherd: and Jehovah said, These have no master; let them return every man to his house in peace.
World English Bible
He said, “I saw all Israel scattered on the mountains, as sheep that have no shepherd. Yahweh said, ‘These have no master. Let them each return to his house in peace.’”
Douay-Rheims
And he said: I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, like sheep that have no shepherd; and the Lord said: These have no master: let every man of them return to his house in peace.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then he said, I sawe all Israel scattered vpon the mountaines, as sheepe that had no shepheard. And the Lord sayde, These haue no master, let euery man returne vnto his house in peace.