Isaiah 56:11
Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter.
Isaiah 56:11 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse from Isaiah 56:11 serves as a stern warning against those who are consumed by greed and selfish desires. It speaks of individuals who, like dogs, are always looking for more and more, never satisfied with what they have. These people are likened to shepherds who are meant to guide and care for others, but instead, they are focused solely on their own gain. They lack understanding and wisdom, leading them to prioritize their own interests over the well-being of those they are supposed to lead. The verse highlights the danger of allowing greed to cloud one's judgment and warns against the consequences of pursuing personal gain at the expense of others. It serves as a reminder to prioritize integrity, compassion, and selflessness in our actions, rather than being driven solely by selfish desires.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Isaiah (56:11) describes a group of individuals who are characterized as "greedy dogs" and "shepherds that cannot understand." The theological interpretation of this verse suggests that these individuals are driven by selfish desires and lack understanding of God's ways. The comparison to dogs implies a sense of insatiability, as dogs are often perceived as constantly seeking more without ever being satisfied. The image of shepherds who cannot understand reflects a lack of spiritual guidance or wisdom in their leadership roles, leading them to prioritize personal gain over the well-being of those under their care. The verse ultimately serves as a warning against the dangers of greed and self-serving motives, encouraging readers to reflect on their own motivations and align them with God's will.
Isaiah 56:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
Yea, the dogs are greedy, they can never have enough; and these are shepherds that cannot understand: they have all turned to their own way, each one to his gain, from every quarter.
World English Bible
Yes, the dogs are greedy, they can never have enough; and these are shepherds who can’t understand: they have all turned to their own way, each one to his gain, from every quarter.
Douay-Rheims
And most impudent dogs, they never had enough: the shepherds themselves knew no understanding: all have turned aside into their own way, every one after his own gain, from the first even to the last.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And these griedy dogs can neuer haue ynough: and these shepheards cannot vnderstand: for they all looke to their owne way, euery one for his aduantage, and for his owne purpose.