Zechariah 11:7
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.
Zechariah 11:7 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Zechariah in the Old Testament talks about God's care and provision for His people, represented here as a flock. The "flock of slaughter" refers to a group of people who are vulnerable and in need of protection. God promises to feed and care for them, specifically mentioning the poor members of the flock. The two staves, named Beauty and Bands, symbolize the dual nature of God's provision and guidance. "Beauty" represents God's blessings and grace, while "Bands" symbolize his discipline and correction. By using these staves, God ensures that His people receive both the comfort and correction they need to grow and thrive. In feeding the flock, God shows not only His compassion but also His commitment to their well-being. This verse reminds believers of God's multifaceted care for His people, providing both beauty and discipline to shape them into the image He desires.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Zechariah focuses on the symbolism behind the two staves named Beauty and Bands. These staves represent the way in which God cares for and leads His people, comparing them to a shepherd tending to his flock. The staff called Beauty signifies God's grace and favor, while the staff called Bands represents the bonds of unity and protection that God provides for His people. By feeding the flock, God is showing His compassion and care for those who are considered weak or marginalized, emphasizing His desire to nurture and guide all members of His flock. This verse serves as a reminder of God's constant presence and guidance in the lives of His people, offering them comfort and security in times of difficulty. Through this imagery of the shepherd and his staves, the verse conveys the message of God's unwavering love and provision for His people.
Zechariah 11:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
So I fed the flock of slaughter, verily the 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.
World English Bible
So I fed the flock of slaughter, especially the oppressed of the flock. I took for myself two staffs. The one I called “Favor”, and the other I called “Union”, and I fed the flock.
Douay-Rheims
And I will feed the flock of slaughter for this, O ye poor of the flock. And I took unto me two rods, one I called Beauty, and the other I called a Cord, and I fed the flock.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For I fed the sheepe of slaughter, euen the poore of the flocke, and I tooke vnto me two staues: the one I called Beautie, and the other I called Bandes, and I fed the sheepe.