Commentary on Zechariah 11:5

Zechariah 11:5 states:

"Whose possessors slay them, and hold themselves not guilty: and they that sell them say, Blessed be the Lord; for I am rich: and their own shepherds pity them not."

Summary and Insights

This verse presents a grim picture of the state of Israel, where the people are described as being mercilessly exploited and slain by those who should care for them. In reviewing ancient commentaries, several key themes emerge:

1. The Role of Shepherds

Matthew Henry emphasizes the responsibilities of shepherds within the context of Israel's leadership. He notes that the shepherds—representing rulers and leaders—have failed in their duty to protect the flock. Instead of nurturing and safeguarding their people, they have become accomplices in their suffering. This reflects the broader prophetic theme found throughout Scripture, where false leaders are condemned for leading their congregation astray.

2. The Exploitation of the Flock

Albert Barnes draws attention to the harsh reality that the “possessors” and “shepherds” slay the flock without remorse. This portrays a society in moral decay where human life is undervalued, illustrating a vicious cycle of betrayal among those in power. Barnes also connects this to the broader narrative of Israel's history, marked by a lack of genuine leadership and compassion.

3. The Attitude of the People

Adam Clarke interprets the latter part of the verse, focusing on the callousness of those who profit from selling the flock. They proclaim, "Blessed be the Lord; for I am rich," showing a blatant disregard for the suffering of others in pursuit of wealth. Such statements reflect a tragic irony—those who should be mourning over the state of their people instead celebrate their prosperity. Clarke posits that this reflects a spiritual blindness where individuals are unable to recognize their moral and spiritual bankruptcy.

4. Theological Implications

The verse prompts significant theological reflection regarding God's judgment and the nature of leadership. Both Henry and Clarke suggest that the rejection of divine compassion leads to inevitable judgment. As leaders fail to provide protection and serve their interests, they place themselves and their people in harm's way. Furthermore, this calls for a serious examination of pastoral responsibility and the burden of leadership in the modern Church.

5. A Prophetic Lament

This verse serves as a powerful lament, reflecting God’s sorrow for His people who have been led astray by their leaders. It emphasizes the importance of true shepherding in spiritual communities. Henry notes that the cry for divine intervention and the longing for righteous leadership are central themes in the prophetic literature, which resonate with contemporary struggles in the Church and societal structures today.

Application for Contemporary Readers

Pastors, theologians, and scholars can draw significant lessons from Zechariah 11:5. The verse challenges modern leaders to examine their motives and actions in relation to their communities. The consequences of neglect and exploitation are made clear, calling for accountability and a return to a model of leadership rooted in love, sacrifice, and genuine concern for the welfare of others.

• Self-Examination: Leaders should regularly assess their actions and intentions towards their congregations and communities.
• Empathy and Responsibility: There must be an active engagement with those who are marginalized or suffering, fulfilling the Biblical mandate of being a shepherd to the flock.
• Holiness in Leadership: The pursuit of wealth or success should never come at the cost of sacrificing the spiritual health and well-being of others.

Conclusion

Zechariah 11:5 serves as a stark reminder of the weighty responsibility that comes with leadership in God’s economy. The historical context, paired with timeless truths from the commentaries of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, invites both individual reflection and corporate confession. Those who teach and lead must strive to embody the heart of the Good Shepherd, caring for their sheep with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to God's calling.