Ezekiel 34:8
Ezekiel 34:8 in Multiple Translations
‘As surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, because My flock lacks a shepherd and has become prey and food for every wild beast, and because My shepherds did not search for My flock but fed themselves instead,
As I live, saith the Lord GOD, surely because my flock became a prey, and my flock became meat to every beast of the field, because there was no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for my flock, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not my flock;
As I live, saith the Lord Jehovah, surely forasmuch as my sheep became a prey, and my sheep became food to all the beasts of the field, because there was no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for my sheep, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not my sheep;
By my life, says the Lord, truly, because my sheep have been taken away, and my sheep became food for all the beasts of the field, because there was no keeper, and my keepers did not go in search of the sheep, but the keepers took food for themselves and gave my sheep no food;
As I live, declares the Lord God, because my sheep didn't have a shepherd and were preyed on by all the wild animals for food, and because my shepherds didn't look after my sheep but instead only fed themselves,
As I liue, sayeth the Lord God, surely because my flocke was spoyled, and my sheepe were deuoured of all the beasts of the fielde, hauing no shepherde, neither did my shepherdes seeke my sheepe, but the shepherdes fedde them selues, and fedde not my sheepe,
I live — an affirmation of the Lord Jehovah, If not, because of My flock being for a prey, Yea, My flock is for food to every beast of the field, Because there is no shepherd, And My shepherds have not sought My flock, And the shepherds do feed themselves, And My flock they have not fed.
“As I live,” says the Lord GOD, “surely because my sheep became a prey, and my sheep became food to all the animals of the field, because there was no shepherd, and my shepherds didn’t search for my sheep, but the shepherds fed themselves, and didn’t feed my sheep,
As I live, saith the Lord GOD, surely because my flock became a prey, and my flock became food to every beast of the field, because there was no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for my flock, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not my flock;
As I live, saith the Lord God, forasmuch as my flocks have been made a spoil, and my sheep are become a prey to all the beasts of the field, because there was no shepherd: for my shepherds did not seek after my flock, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not my flocks:
As surely as I am alive, my people are like a flock of sheep that has no shepherd, and as a result it is as though wild animals have attacked my people and eaten them. You did not search for them; instead, you only wanted to provide food for yourselves.
Berean Amplified Bible — Ezekiel 34:8
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Ezekiel 34:8 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
חַי
אָ֜נִי
נְאֻ֣ם
אֲדֹנָ֣/י
יְהוִ֗ה
אִם
לֹ֣א
יַ֣עַן
הֱיֽוֹת
צֹאנִ֣/י
לָ/בַ֡ז
וַ/תִּֽהְיֶינָה֩
צֹאנִ֨/י
לְ/אָכְלָ֜ה
לְ/כָל
חַיַּ֤ת
הַ/שָּׂדֶה֙
מֵ/אֵ֣ין
רֹעֶ֔ה
וְ/לֹֽא
דָרְשׁ֥וּ
רֹעַ֖/י
אֶת
צֹאנִ֑/י
וַ/יִּרְע֤וּ
הָֽ/רֹעִים֙
אוֹתָ֔/ם
וְ/אֶת
צֹאנִ֖/י
לֹ֥א
רָעֽוּ
חַי
chay
H2416
alive
Adj
אָ֜נִי
ʼănîy
H589
I
Pron
נְאֻ֣ם
nᵉʼum
H5002
utterance
N-ms
אֲדֹנָ֣/י
ʼĂdônây
H136
Lord
N-mp | Suff
יְהוִ֗ה
Yᵉhôvih
H3069
YHWH/God
N-proper
אִם
ʼim
H518
if
Conj
לֹ֣א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
יַ֣עַן
yaʻan
H3282
because
Conj
הֱיֽוֹת
hâyâh
H1961
to be
V-Qal-Inf-a
צֹאנִ֣/י
tsôʼn
H6629
Sheep (Gate)
N-cs | Suff
לָ/בַ֡ז
baz
H957
plunder
Prep | N-ms
וַ/תִּֽהְיֶינָה֩
hâyâh
H1961
to be
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fp
צֹאנִ֨/י
tsôʼn
H6629
Sheep (Gate)
N-cs | Suff
לְ/אָכְלָ֜ה
ʼoklâh
H402
food
Prep | N-fs
לְ/כָל
kôl
H3605
all
Prep | N-ms
חַיַּ֤ת
chay
H2416
alive
N-fs
הַ/שָּׂדֶה֙
sâdeh
H7704
field
Art | N-ms
מֵ/אֵ֣ין
ʼayin
H369
nothing
Prep | Part
רֹעֶ֔ה
râʻâh
H7462
House of Shepherds
V-Qal
וְ/לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Conj | Part
דָרְשׁ֥וּ
dârash
H1875
to seek
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
רֹעַ֖/י
râʻâh
H7462
House of Shepherds
V-Qal | Suff
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
צֹאנִ֑/י
tsôʼn
H6629
Sheep (Gate)
N-cs | Suff
וַ/יִּרְע֤וּ
râʻâh
H7462
House of Shepherds
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
הָֽ/רֹעִים֙
râʻâh
H7462
House of Shepherds
Art | V-Qal
אוֹתָ֔/ם
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM | Suff
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
Conj | DirObjM
צֹאנִ֖/י
tsôʼn
H6629
Sheep (Gate)
N-cs | Suff
לֹ֥א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
רָעֽוּ
râʻâh
H7462
House of Shepherds
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Ezekiel 34:8
חַי
chay
H2416
"alive"
Adj
In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.
Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.
אָ֜נִי
ʼănîy
H589
"I"
Pron
This Hebrew word is a simple way of saying 'I' or 'me', often used for emphasis. It is used by people like David in the Psalms to express their thoughts and feelings. The word is a basic part of the Hebrew language.
Definition: I (first pers. sing. -usually used for emphasis)
Usage: Occurs in 803 OT verses. KJV: I, (as for) me, mine, myself, we, [idiom] which, [idiom] who. See also: Genesis 6:17; Leviticus 19:36; 1 Samuel 25:24.
נְאֻ֣ם
nᵉʼum
H5002
"utterance"
N-ms
This word refers to an utterance or declaration from God, often through a prophet. It is used in the Bible to describe a revelation or message from God, like in Exodus or Numbers.
Definition: 1) (Qal) utterance, declaration (of prophet) 1a) utterance, declaration, revelation (of prophet in ecstatic state) 1b) utterance, declaration (elsewhere always preceding divine name)
Usage: Occurs in 358 OT verses. KJV: (hath) said, saith. See also: Genesis 22:16; Jeremiah 22:16; Psalms 36:2.
אֲדֹנָ֣/י
ʼĂdônây
H136
"Lord"
N-mp | Suff
Adonay is a title used to refer to God, spoken in place of Yahweh as a sign of reverence and respect. It is used throughout the Bible to address God or refer to Him in a formal way. Adonay is a term of worship and devotion.
Definition: Lord - a title, spoken in place of Yahweh in Jewish display of reverence Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
Usage: Occurs in 430 OT verses. KJV: (my) Lord. See also: Genesis 15:2; Isaiah 3:17; Psalms 2:4.
יְהוִ֗ה
Yᵉhôvih
H3069
"YHWH/God"
N-proper
YHWH is a name for God, often used in combination with 'Lord'. It is similar to Yehovah, but with different vowels. This name emphasizes God's power and authority.
Definition: 1) Jehovah-used primarily in the combination 'Lord Jehovah' 1a) equal to ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068) but pointed with the vowels of e.lo.him (אֱלֹהִים "God" H0430)
Usage: Occurs in 296 OT verses. KJV: God. See also: Genesis 15:2; Ezekiel 14:21; Psalms 68:21.
אִם
ʼim
H518
"if"
Conj
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
לֹ֣א
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
יַ֣עַן
yaʻan
H3282
"because"
Conj
This Hebrew word means because or therefore, and is used to show the reason or cause of something, like in a sentence explaining why something happened. It is often translated as because or for in the KJV Bible. This word helps us understand the motivations behind actions.
Definition: conj 1) because, therefore, because that, on account of prep 2) because of, on account of 3) why (with interrogative pron)
Usage: Occurs in 94 OT verses. KJV: because (that), forasmuch ([phrase] as), seeing then, [phrase] that, [phrase] wheras, [phrase] why. See also: Genesis 22:16; Jeremiah 25:8; Psalms 109:16.
הֱיֽוֹת
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
V-Qal-Inf-a
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
צֹאנִ֣/י
tsôʼn
H6629
"Sheep (Gate)"
N-cs | Suff
This word refers to a flock of sheep or goats, and is sometimes used to describe people in a figurative sense. It is also associated with the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem, a significant location in biblical times.
Definition: This name means sheep and goats Also named: probatikos (προβατικός "Sheep Gate" G4262)
Usage: Occurs in 247 OT verses. KJV: (small) cattle, flock ([phrase] -s), lamb ([phrase] -s), sheep(-cote, -fold, -shearer, -herds). See also: Genesis 4:2; Deuteronomy 28:31; Psalms 44:12.
לָ/בַ֡ז
baz
H957
"plunder"
Prep | N-ms
Means plunder or spoil, referring to goods taken by force, as seen in the conquests of Joshua. It can also imply robbery or spoiling something. The concept appears in various KJV translations, including booty and prey.
Definition: spoil, booty, robbery, spoiling Also means: bag (בַּג "spoil" H0897)
Usage: Occurs in 25 OT verses. KJV: booty, prey, spoil(-ed). See also: Numbers 14:3; Jeremiah 49:32; Isaiah 10:6.
וַ/תִּֽהְיֶינָה֩
hâyâh
H1961
"to be"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fp
The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.
Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone
Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.
צֹאנִ֨/י
tsôʼn
H6629
"Sheep (Gate)"
N-cs | Suff
This word refers to a flock of sheep or goats, and is sometimes used to describe people in a figurative sense. It is also associated with the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem, a significant location in biblical times.
Definition: This name means sheep and goats Also named: probatikos (προβατικός "Sheep Gate" G4262)
Usage: Occurs in 247 OT verses. KJV: (small) cattle, flock ([phrase] -s), lamb ([phrase] -s), sheep(-cote, -fold, -shearer, -herds). See also: Genesis 4:2; Deuteronomy 28:31; Psalms 44:12.
לְ/אָכְלָ֜ה
ʼoklâh
H402
"food"
Prep | N-fs
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means food or something to eat, like in Psalm 78:25 where it describes manna from heaven. It can also mean being consumed by something, like fire or wild beasts. This word is used in many Old Testament stories.
Definition: 1) food 1a) food, eating 1b) object of devouring, consuming 1b1) by wild beasts (figurative) 1b2) in fire 1b3) of judgment (figurative)
Usage: Occurs in 18 OT verses. KJV: consume, devour, eat, food, meat. See also: Genesis 1:29; Ezekiel 15:6; Jeremiah 12:9.
לְ/כָל
kôl
H3605
"all"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.
Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)
Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.
חַיַּ֤ת
chay
H2416
"alive"
N-fs
In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.
Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.
הַ/שָּׂדֶה֙
sâdeh
H7704
"field"
Art | N-ms
A field or land is what this word represents, often referring to a flat area of land used for cultivation or as a habitat for wild animals, as described in the book of Genesis. It can also mean a plain or a country, as opposed to a mountain or sea. This term is used in the story of Ruth and Boaz.
Definition: 1) field, land 1a) cultivated field 1b) of home of wild beasts 1c) plain (opposed to mountain) 1d) land (opposed to sea)
Usage: Occurs in 309 OT verses. KJV: country, field, ground, land, soil, [idiom] wild. See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 28:38; Nehemiah 12:29.
מֵ/אֵ֣ין
ʼayin
H369
"nothing"
Prep | Part
This word means nothing or not, often used to indicate the absence of something, as in Genesis 1:2 where the earth was without form. It emphasizes the idea of something lacking or non-existent.
Definition: 1) nothing, not, nought n 1a) nothing, nought neg 1b) not 1c) to have not (of possession) adv 1d) without w/prep 1e) for lack of
Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: else, except, fail, (father-) less, be gone, in(-curable), neither, never, no (where), none, nor, (any, thing), not, nothing, to nought, past, un(-searchable), well-nigh, without. Compare H370 (אַיִן). See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 14:27; 1 Kings 15:22.
רֹעֶ֔ה
râʻâh
H7462
"House of Shepherds"
V-Qal
This verb means to care for or tend to someone or something, like a shepherd with his flock. It can also mean to rule over or associate with someone as a friend, and is sometimes used to describe a close relationship.
Definition: Ra'ah = "pasturing" perh. "binding-house of the shepherds"
Usage: Occurs in 139 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] break, companion, keep company with, devour, eat up, evil entreat, feed, use as a friend, make friendship with, herdman, keep (sheep) (-er), pastor, [phrase] shearing house, shepherd, wander, waste. See also: Genesis 4:2; Isaiah 40:11; Psalms 23:1.
וְ/לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Conj | Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
דָרְשׁ֥וּ
dârash
H1875
"to seek"
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
To seek or ask is the meaning of this Hebrew word, often used to describe seeking God or worshiping him. It can also mean to investigate or enquire about something.
Definition: 1) to resort to, seek, seek with care, enquire, require 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to resort to, frequent (a place), (tread a place) 1a2) to consult, enquire of, seek 1a2a) of God 1a2b) of heathen gods, necromancers 1a3) to seek deity in prayer and worship 1a3a) God 1a3b) heathen deities 1a4) to seek (with a demand), demand, require 1a5) to investigate, enquire 1a6) to ask for, require, demand 1a7) to practice, study, follow, seek with application 1a8) to seek with care, care for 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to allow oneself to be enquired of, consulted (only of God) 1b2) to be sought, be sought out 1b3) to be required (of blood)
Usage: Occurs in 152 OT verses. KJV: ask, [idiom] at all, care for, [idiom] diligently, inquire, make inquisition, (necro-) mancer, question, require, search, seek (for, out), [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 9:5; Ezra 10:16; Psalms 9:11.
רֹעַ֖/י
râʻâh
H7462
"House of Shepherds"
V-Qal | Suff
This verb means to care for or tend to someone or something, like a shepherd with his flock. It can also mean to rule over or associate with someone as a friend, and is sometimes used to describe a close relationship.
Definition: Ra'ah = "pasturing" perh. "binding-house of the shepherds"
Usage: Occurs in 139 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] break, companion, keep company with, devour, eat up, evil entreat, feed, use as a friend, make friendship with, herdman, keep (sheep) (-er), pastor, [phrase] shearing house, shepherd, wander, waste. See also: Genesis 4:2; Isaiah 40:11; Psalms 23:1.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
צֹאנִ֑/י
tsôʼn
H6629
"Sheep (Gate)"
N-cs | Suff
This word refers to a flock of sheep or goats, and is sometimes used to describe people in a figurative sense. It is also associated with the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem, a significant location in biblical times.
Definition: This name means sheep and goats Also named: probatikos (προβατικός "Sheep Gate" G4262)
Usage: Occurs in 247 OT verses. KJV: (small) cattle, flock ([phrase] -s), lamb ([phrase] -s), sheep(-cote, -fold, -shearer, -herds). See also: Genesis 4:2; Deuteronomy 28:31; Psalms 44:12.
וַ/יִּרְע֤וּ
râʻâh
H7462
"House of Shepherds"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp
This verb means to care for or tend to someone or something, like a shepherd with his flock. It can also mean to rule over or associate with someone as a friend, and is sometimes used to describe a close relationship.
Definition: Ra'ah = "pasturing" perh. "binding-house of the shepherds"
Usage: Occurs in 139 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] break, companion, keep company with, devour, eat up, evil entreat, feed, use as a friend, make friendship with, herdman, keep (sheep) (-er), pastor, [phrase] shearing house, shepherd, wander, waste. See also: Genesis 4:2; Isaiah 40:11; Psalms 23:1.
הָֽ/רֹעִים֙
râʻâh
H7462
"House of Shepherds"
Art | V-Qal
This verb means to care for or tend to someone or something, like a shepherd with his flock. It can also mean to rule over or associate with someone as a friend, and is sometimes used to describe a close relationship.
Definition: Ra'ah = "pasturing" perh. "binding-house of the shepherds"
Usage: Occurs in 139 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] break, companion, keep company with, devour, eat up, evil entreat, feed, use as a friend, make friendship with, herdman, keep (sheep) (-er), pastor, [phrase] shearing house, shepherd, wander, waste. See also: Genesis 4:2; Isaiah 40:11; Psalms 23:1.
אוֹתָ֔/ם
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM | Suff
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
וְ/אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
Conj | DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
צֹאנִ֖/י
tsôʼn
H6629
"Sheep (Gate)"
N-cs | Suff
This word refers to a flock of sheep or goats, and is sometimes used to describe people in a figurative sense. It is also associated with the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem, a significant location in biblical times.
Definition: This name means sheep and goats Also named: probatikos (προβατικός "Sheep Gate" G4262)
Usage: Occurs in 247 OT verses. KJV: (small) cattle, flock ([phrase] -s), lamb ([phrase] -s), sheep(-cote, -fold, -shearer, -herds). See also: Genesis 4:2; Deuteronomy 28:31; Psalms 44:12.
לֹ֥א
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
רָעֽוּ
râʻâh
H7462
"House of Shepherds"
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
This verb means to care for or tend to someone or something, like a shepherd with his flock. It can also mean to rule over or associate with someone as a friend, and is sometimes used to describe a close relationship.
Definition: Ra'ah = "pasturing" perh. "binding-house of the shepherds"
Usage: Occurs in 139 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] break, companion, keep company with, devour, eat up, evil entreat, feed, use as a friend, make friendship with, herdman, keep (sheep) (-er), pastor, [phrase] shearing house, shepherd, wander, waste. See also: Genesis 4:2; Isaiah 40:11; Psalms 23:1.
Study Notes — Ezekiel 34:8
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Ezekiel 34:8 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Ezekiel 34:8
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ezekiel 34:8
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ezekiel 34:8
- Trapp's Commentary on Ezekiel 34:8
- Whedon's Commentary on Ezekiel 34:8
- Sermons on Ezekiel 34:8
Context — A Prophecy against Israel’s Shepherds
6My flock went astray on all the mountains and every high hill. They were scattered over the face of all the earth, with no one to search for them or seek them out.’
7Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD:
8‘As surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, because My flock lacks a shepherd and has become prey and food for every wild beast, and because My shepherds did not search for My flock but fed themselves instead,
9therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD!’ 10This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I am against the shepherds, and I will demand from them My flock and remove them from tending the flock, so that they can no longer feed themselves. For I will deliver My flock from their mouths, and it will no longer be food for them.’Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Peter 2:13 | The harm they will suffer is the wages of their wickedness. They consider it a pleasure to carouse in broad daylight. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their deception as they feast with you. |
| 2 | Acts 20:33 | I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing. |
| 3 | Ezekiel 34:5–6 | They were scattered for lack of a shepherd, and when they were scattered they became food for all the wild beasts. My flock went astray on all the mountains and every high hill. They were scattered over the face of all the earth, with no one to search for them or seek them out.’ |
| 4 | Ezekiel 34:10 | This is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Behold, I am against the shepherds, and I will demand from them My flock and remove them from tending the flock, so that they can no longer feed themselves. For I will deliver My flock from their mouths, and it will no longer be food for them.’ |
| 5 | Ezekiel 34:31 | ‘You are My flock, the sheep of My pasture, My people, and I am your God,’ declares the Lord GOD.” |
| 6 | 1 Corinthians 9:15 | But I have not used any of these rights. And I am not writing this to suggest that something be done for me. Indeed, I would rather die than let anyone nullify my boast. |
| 7 | Ezekiel 34:18 | Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture? Must you also trample the rest of the pasture with your feet? Is it not enough for you to drink the clear waters? Must you also muddy the rest with your feet? |
| 8 | Jude 1:12 | These men are hidden reefs in your love feasts, shamelessly feasting with you but shepherding only themselves. They are clouds without water, carried along by the wind; fruitless trees in autumn, twice dead after being uprooted. |
| 9 | Ezekiel 34:2–3 | “Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel. Prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Woe to the shepherds of Israel, who only feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed their flock? You eat the fat, wear the wool, and butcher the fattened sheep, but you do not feed the flock. |
Ezekiel 34:8 Summary
[This verse is saying that God's people are like sheep without a shepherd, and they are in danger because of it. God is unhappy with the leaders who are supposed to be taking care of His people, but instead they are only looking out for themselves. This is similar to what Jesus said in Matthew 23:1-36, where He condemned the Pharisees for their hypocrisy. God wants His leaders to care for and protect His people, not to hurt or exploit them.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that God's flock lacks a shepherd?
This means that the people of God are without proper spiritual leadership, leaving them vulnerable to harm and danger, as seen in Ezekiel 34:8 and also in Jeremiah 23:1-4 where God condemns the shepherds of Israel for their failure to care for His people.
Why did God's shepherds feed themselves instead of the flock?
This indicates that the spiritual leaders of God's people were more concerned with their own interests and well-being than with the welfare of those they were supposed to be guiding, a theme also seen in Jeremiah 23:1-4 and Matthew 23:1-36 where Jesus condemns the Pharisees for their hypocrisy.
What is the significance of the wild beasts in this verse?
The wild beasts represent the dangers and threats that God's people face when they lack proper spiritual leadership, as seen in Ezekiel 34:8 and also in Matthew 7:15 where Jesus warns about false prophets who come in sheep's clothing but are actually wolves.
How does this verse relate to the responsibility of spiritual leaders?
This verse emphasizes the importance of spiritual leaders being faithful shepherds who care for and protect God's people, rather than exploiting them for personal gain, as seen in 1 Peter 5:1-4 where the apostle Peter exhorts elders to shepherd God's flock with integrity and humility.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can ensure I am being a good shepherd to those around me, whether in my family, church, or community?
- How can I discern whether my spiritual leaders are truly caring for my well-being, or if they are more concerned with their own interests?
- In what ways can I be more aware of the 'wild beasts' that may be threatening my spiritual well-being, and how can I seek protection and guidance from God?
- What does it mean for me to 'feed myself' spiritually, and how can I prioritize my own spiritual growth and development?
Gill's Exposition on Ezekiel 34:8
As I live, saith the Lord,.... It is an oath, and which he swore in his wrath, being provoked with the shepherds for their misadministration: surely, because my flock became a prey, and my flock
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ezekiel 34:8
Therefore, ye shepherds, hear the word of the LORD; No JFB commentary on these verses.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ezekiel 34:8
See ,3,5,6. My shepherds: government governors are by God’ s appointment, and here he owns the careless, worst of rulers as his shepherds.
Trapp's Commentary on Ezekiel 34:8
Ezekiel 34:8 [As] I live, saith the Lord GOD, surely because my flock became a prey, and my flock became meat to every beast of the field, because [there was] no shepherd, neither did my shepherds search for my flock, but the shepherds fed themselves, and fed not my flock;Ver. 8. As I live, saith the Lord, surely because,] God here seemeth to be in a great heat, in a perturbation of spirit, causing a kind of impediment in his speech, so thoroughly was he moved against these lewd shepherds, whose faults he rippeth up again to make better way to their sentence. Because my flock became a prey.] To the Chaldees, but especially to that old man slayer. Because there was no shepherd.] None but a company of nominals, or rather nullities. Hyperbaton aetiologicum.
Whedon's Commentary on Ezekiel 34:8
1-10. The shepherds of the people, instead of feeding the flock, were feeding upon the flock, eating the fat (LXX., milk), and living in ease and luxury, while “my sheep” (Ezekiel 34:5, LXX.) were
Sermons on Ezekiel 34:8
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
The State of the church...pray Ye Therefore by Aaron Dunlop | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer in fulfilling the duty of Christians to share the gospel with the world. The speaker highlights the condition of the |
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Epistle 42 by George Fox | George Fox addresses all Friends scattered abroad, urging them to dwell in the light that comes from Christ, which enables them to see Him as their Savior and grow in Him. He empha |
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Joy by Andrew Murray | Greek Word Studies preaches on the concept of being spotless, emphasizing the importance of believers manifesting flawless integrity and uncompromising holiness in their moral char |
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2 Peter 2:13 by John Gill | John Gill expounds on 2 Peter 2:13, emphasizing the consequences of unrighteousness and the just punishment that awaits those who indulge in sinful pleasures without regard for fut |
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The Fool's Bauble, the Fool's Fiddle by Thomas Brooks | Thomas Brooks warns against the folly of indulging in sin, describing it as the 'fool's bauble' and 'fool's fiddle.' He emphasizes that fools take delight in wickedness, treating s |
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(Reformers and Their Stepchildren) Catharer! - Part 2 by Leonard Verduin | Leonard Verduin discusses the historical conflict between two delineations of the Church: one emphasizing personal faith as the basis for a confessional Church, and the other focus |
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Is Your Work Being Tried by Fire? by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of his house burning down and how it challenged his theology. He reflects on the fact that there are some things in life th |