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Zechariah 10:3

Zechariah 10:3 in Multiple Translations

“My anger burns against the shepherds, and I will punish the leaders. For the LORD of Hosts attends to His flock, the house of Judah; He will make them like His royal steed in battle.

Mine anger was kindled against the shepherds, and I punished the goats: for the LORD of hosts hath visited his flock the house of Judah, and hath made them as his goodly horse in the battle.

Mine anger is kindled against the shepherds, and I will punish the he-goats; for Jehovah of hosts hath visited his flock, the house of Judah, and will make them as his goodly horse in the battle.

My wrath is burning against the keepers of the flock, and I will send punishment on the he-goats: for the Lord of armies takes care of his flock, the people of Judah, and will make them like the horse of his pride in the fight.

I am angry with the shepherds, I will punish the leaders. For the Lord Almighty cares for his flock, the people of Judah, and will make them like his splendid warhorse.

My wrath was kindled against the shepherdes, and I did visite the goates: but the Lord of hostes will visite his flocke the house of Iudah, and will make them as his beautifull horse in the battell.

Against the shepherds did Mine anger burn, And against the he-goats I lay a charge, For inspected hath Jehovah of Hosts His flock, the house of Judah, And set them as His beauteous horse in battle.

My anger is kindled against the shepherds, and I will punish the male goats, for the LORD of Armies has visited his flock, the house of Judah, and will make them as his majestic horse in the battle.

My anger was kindled against the shepherds, and I punished the goats: for the LORD of hosts hath visited his flock the house of Judah, and hath made them as his goodly horse in the battle.

My wrath is kindled against the shepherds, and I will visit upon the buck goats: for the Lord of hosts hath visited his flock, the house of Juda, and hath made them as the horse of his glory in the battle.

Yahweh says, “I am angry with the leaders [MET] of my people, and I will punish them. I, the Commander of the armies of angels, take care of my people, the people of Judah, like a shepherd takes care of his [MET] flock, and I will cause them to be like [SIM] proud/powerful war horses.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Zechariah 10:3

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.

Zechariah 10:3 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB
HEB עַל הָֽ/רֹעִים֙ חָרָ֣ה אַפִּ֔/י וְ/עַל הָ/עַתּוּדִ֖ים אֶפְק֑וֹד כִּֽי פָקַד֩ יְהוָ֨ה צְבָא֤וֹת אֶת עֶדְר/וֹ֙ אֶת בֵּ֣ית יְהוּדָ֔ה וְ/שָׂ֣ם אוֹתָ֔/ם כְּ/ס֥וּס הוֹד֖/וֹ בַּ/מִּלְחָמָֽה
עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep
הָֽ/רֹעִים֙ râʻâh H7462 House of Shepherds Art | V-Qal
חָרָ֣ה chârâh H2734 to be incensed V-Qal-Perf-3ms
אַפִּ֔/י ʼaph H639 face N-ms | Suff
וְ/עַל ʻal H5921 upon Conj | Prep
הָ/עַתּוּדִ֖ים ʻattûwd H6260 goat Art | N-mp
אֶפְק֑וֹד pâqad H6485 to reckon V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
כִּֽי kîy H3588 for Conj
פָקַד֩ pâqad H6485 to reckon V-Qal-Perf-3ms
יְהוָ֨ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 The Lord N-proper
צְבָא֤וֹת tsâbâʼ H6635 army N-cp
אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM
עֶדְר/וֹ֙ ʻêder H5739 flock N-ms | Suff
אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM
בֵּ֣ית bayith H1004 place N-ms
יְהוּדָ֔ה Yᵉhûwdâh H3063 Judah N-proper
וְ/שָׂ֣ם sûwm H7760 to set Conj | V-Qal-Perf-3ms
אוֹתָ֔/ם ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM | Suff
כְּ/ס֥וּס çûwç H5483 swallow Prep | N-ms
הוֹד֖/וֹ hôwd H1935 splendor N-ms | Suff
בַּ/מִּלְחָמָֽה milchâmâh H4421 battle Prep | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Zechariah 10:3

עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
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.
חָרָ֣ה chârâh H2734 "to be incensed" V-Qal-Perf-3ms
To be incensed means to be very angry or furious, like a fire burning. It describes strong emotions like anger, zeal, or jealousy, and is used to express intense feelings in the Bible.
Definition: 1) to be hot, furious, burn, becomeangry, be kindled 1a) (Qal) to burn, kindle (anger) 1b) (Niphal) to be angry with, be incensed 1c) (Hiphil) to burn, kindle 1d) (Hithpael) to heat oneself in vexation
Usage: Occurs in 87 OT verses. KJV: be angry, burn, be displeased, [idiom] earnestly, fret self, grieve, be (wax) hot, be incensed, kindle, [idiom] very, be wroth. See H8474 (תַּחָרָה). See also: Genesis 4:5; 1 Samuel 15:11; Psalms 18:8.
אַפִּ֔/י ʼaph H639 "face" N-ms | Suff
This Hebrew word can mean face, but also anger or nose. It is used to describe someone's countenance or emotions, like anger or patience. In the Bible, it appears in various contexts, including descriptions of God's emotions.
Definition: : face 1) nostril, nose, face 2) anger
Usage: Occurs in 269 OT verses. KJV: anger(-gry), [phrase] before, countenance, face, [phrase] forebearing, forehead, [phrase] (long-) suffering, nose, nostril, snout, [idiom] worthy, wrath. See also: Genesis 2:7; Nehemiah 8:6; Psalms 2:5.
וְ/עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Conj | Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
הָ/עַתּוּדִ֖ים ʻattûwd H6260 "goat" Art | N-mp
In the Bible, this word can refer to a full-grown male goat, like the ones used in sacrifices in Leviticus. It can also be used figuratively to describe leaders or important people, like the chiefs of the tribes of Israel in Numbers.
Definition: ram, he-goat, chief one
Usage: Occurs in 29 OT verses. KJV: chief one, (he) goat, ram. See also: Genesis 31:10; Numbers 7:88; Psalms 50:9.
אֶפְק֑וֹד pâqad H6485 "to reckon" V-Qal-Imperf-1cs
This word means to visit or oversee, and can imply a range of actions, from friendly to hostile. It is used in various contexts, including appointing, avenging, or delivering something into someone's care. The KJV translates it in many ways, including appoint, avenge, or commit.
Definition: : list/count 1) to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pay attention to, observe 1a2) to attend to 1a3) to seek, look about for 1a4) to seek in vain, need, miss, lack 1a5) to visit 1a6) to visit upon, punish 1a7) to pass in review, muster, number 1a8) to appoint, assign, lay upon as a charge, deposit 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be sought, be needed, be missed, be lacking 1b2) to be visited 1b3) to be visited upon 1b4) to be appointed 1b5) to be watched over 1c) (Piel) to muster, call up 1d) (Pual) to be passed in review, be caused to miss, be called, be called to account 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to set over, make overseer, appoint an overseer 1e2) to commit, entrust, commit for care, deposit 1f) (Hophal) 1f1) to be visited 1f2) to be deposited 1f3) to be made overseer, be entrusted 1g) (Hithpael) numbered 1h) (Hothpael) numbered
Usage: Occurs in 269 OT verses. KJV: appoint, [idiom] at all, avenge, bestow, (appoint to have the, give a) charge, commit, count, deliver to keep, be empty, enjoin, go see, hurt, do judgment, lack, lay up, look, make, [idiom] by any means, miss, number, officer, (make) overseer, have (the) oversight, punish, reckon, (call to) remember(-brance), set (over), sum, [idiom] surely, visit, want. See also: Genesis 21:1; Numbers 26:47; Psalms 8:5.
כִּֽי kîy H3588 "for" Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
פָקַד֩ pâqad H6485 "to reckon" V-Qal-Perf-3ms
This word means to visit or oversee, and can imply a range of actions, from friendly to hostile. It is used in various contexts, including appointing, avenging, or delivering something into someone's care. The KJV translates it in many ways, including appoint, avenge, or commit.
Definition: : list/count 1) to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pay attention to, observe 1a2) to attend to 1a3) to seek, look about for 1a4) to seek in vain, need, miss, lack 1a5) to visit 1a6) to visit upon, punish 1a7) to pass in review, muster, number 1a8) to appoint, assign, lay upon as a charge, deposit 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be sought, be needed, be missed, be lacking 1b2) to be visited 1b3) to be visited upon 1b4) to be appointed 1b5) to be watched over 1c) (Piel) to muster, call up 1d) (Pual) to be passed in review, be caused to miss, be called, be called to account 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to set over, make overseer, appoint an overseer 1e2) to commit, entrust, commit for care, deposit 1f) (Hophal) 1f1) to be visited 1f2) to be deposited 1f3) to be made overseer, be entrusted 1g) (Hithpael) numbered 1h) (Hothpael) numbered
Usage: Occurs in 269 OT verses. KJV: appoint, [idiom] at all, avenge, bestow, (appoint to have the, give a) charge, commit, count, deliver to keep, be empty, enjoin, go see, hurt, do judgment, lack, lay up, look, make, [idiom] by any means, miss, number, officer, (make) overseer, have (the) oversight, punish, reckon, (call to) remember(-brance), set (over), sum, [idiom] surely, visit, want. See also: Genesis 21:1; Numbers 26:47; Psalms 8:5.
יְהוָ֨ה Yᵉhôvâh H3068 "The Lord" N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
צְבָא֤וֹת tsâbâʼ H6635 "army" N-cp
This Hebrew word means a large group of people or things, often referring to an army or a campaign, and is also used to describe the Lord's hosts. It appears in the Bible as a name for God, emphasizing His power and authority. In the KJV, it's translated as 'host' or 'army'.
Definition: : army 1) that which goes forth, army, war, warfare, host 1a) army, host 1a1) host (of organised army) 1a2) host (of angels) 1a3) of sun, moon, and stars 1a4) of whole creation 1b) war, warfare, service, go out to war 1c) service
Usage: Occurs in 463 OT verses. KJV: appointed time, ([phrase]) army, ([phrase]) battle, company, host, service, soldiers, waiting upon, war(-fare). See also: Genesis 2:1; 1 Samuel 17:55; Psalms 24:10.
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.
עֶדְר/וֹ֙ ʻêder H5739 "flock" N-ms | Suff
A flock refers to a group of animals, like sheep or cattle, that are herded together. In the Bible, it can also mean a herd or a drove of animals. This term is used to describe various scenes in the Bible.
Definition: 1) flock, herd 1a) flock 1b) herds, flocks and herds
Usage: Occurs in 34 OT verses. KJV: drove, flock, herd. See also: Genesis 29:2; Isaiah 17:2; Psalms 78:52.
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.
בֵּ֣ית bayith H1004 "place" N-ms
The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.
Definition: nm place, origin, between
Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.
יְהוּדָ֔ה Yᵉhûwdâh H3063 "Judah" N-proper
Judah is the name of the tribe descended from Judah, the son of Jacob. It is also the name of the region where the tribe lived. The name means 'praised' and is first mentioned in Genesis.
Definition: § Judah = "praised" the tribe descended from Judah the son of Jacob
Usage: Occurs in 754 OT verses. KJV: Judah. See also: Genesis 29:35; 1 Samuel 23:3; 2 Kings 14:13.
וְ/שָׂ֣ם sûwm H7760 "to set" Conj | V-Qal-Perf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to put or place something, and is used in many different ways in the Bible, such as to appoint or determine something. It is first used in Genesis to describe God's creation. In the KJV, it is translated as 'appoint' or 'set' in various contexts.
Definition: : make/establish 1) to put, place, set, appoint, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to put, set, lay, put or lay upon, lay (violent) hands on 1a2) to set, direct, direct toward 1a2a) to extend (compassion) (fig) 1a3) to set, ordain, establish, found, appoint, constitute, make, determine, fix 1a4) to set, station, put, set in place, plant, fix 1a5) to make, make for, transform into, constitute, fashion, work, bring to pass, appoint, give 1b) (Hiphil) to set or make for a sign 1c) (Hophal) to be set
Usage: Occurs in 550 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring, call (a name), care, cast in, change, charge, commit, consider, convey, determine, [phrase] disguise, dispose, do, get, give, heap up, hold, impute, lay (down, up), leave, look, make (out), mark, [phrase] name, [idiom] on, ordain, order, [phrase] paint, place, preserve, purpose, put (on), [phrase] regard, rehearse, reward, (cause to) set (on, up), shew, [phrase] stedfastly, take, [idiom] tell, [phrase] tread down, (over-)turn, [idiom] wholly, work. See also: Genesis 2:8; Leviticus 20:5; 1 Samuel 21:13.
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.
כְּ/ס֥וּס çûwç H5483 "swallow" Prep | N-ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a horse, often referring to chariot horses. It also describes a swallow due to its swift flight, as seen in the book of Jeremiah. The word is used to describe strong and fast animals.
Definition: swallow, swift
Usage: Occurs in 130 OT verses. KJV: crane, horse (-back, -hoof). Compare H6571 (פָּרָשׁ). See also: Genesis 47:17; Psalms 76:7; Psalms 20:8.
הוֹד֖/וֹ hôwd H1935 "splendor" N-ms | Suff
This word describes something as glorious or majestic, like God's splendor in Psalm 138:5. It's about an impressive appearance or grandeur.
Definition: splendour, majesty, vigour
Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: beauty, comeliness, excellency, glorious, glory, goodly, honour, majesty. See also: Numbers 27:20; Psalms 111:3; Psalms 8:2.
בַּ/מִּלְחָמָֽה milchâmâh H4421 "battle" Prep | N-fs
This word means battle or war, describing a fight or conflict. It is used in the Bible to talk about wars and battles, like the ones in the book of Joshua. The KJV translates it as battle or fight.
Definition: battle, war
Usage: Occurs in 308 OT verses. KJV: battle, fight(-ing), war(-rior). See also: Genesis 14:2; 1 Samuel 30:24; 2 Chronicles 13:14.

Study Notes — Zechariah 10:3

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Cross References

ReferenceText (BSB)
1 Ezekiel 34:2 “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?
2 Ezekiel 34:7–10 Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD: ‘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, therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD!’ 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.’
3 Jeremiah 23:1–2 “Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of My pasture!” declares the LORD. Therefore this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says about the shepherds who tend My people: “You have scattered My flock and driven them away, and have not attended to them. Behold, I will attend to you for the evil of your deeds, declares the LORD.
4 Zechariah 11:17 Woe to the worthless shepherd, who deserts the flock! May a sword strike his arm and his right eye! May his arm be completely withered and his right eye utterly blinded!”
5 Jeremiah 25:34 Wail, you shepherds, and cry out; roll in the dust, you leaders of the flock. For the days of your slaughter have come; you will fall and be shattered like fine pottery.
6 Ezekiel 34:20–21 Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says to them: ‘Behold, I Myself will judge between the fat sheep and the lean sheep. Since you shove with flank and shoulder, butting all the weak ones with your horns until you have scattered them abroad,
7 Ezekiel 34:16–17 I will seek the lost, bring back the strays, bind up the broken, and strengthen the weak; but the sleek and strong I will destroy. I will shepherd them with justice.’ This is what the Lord GOD says to you, My flock: ‘I will judge between one sheep and another, between the rams and the goats.
8 Zephaniah 2:7 The coast will belong to the remnant of the house of Judah; there they will find pasture. They will lie down in the evening among the houses of Ashkelon, for the LORD their God will attend to them and restore their captives.
9 1 Peter 2:12 Conduct yourselves with such honor among the Gentiles that, though they slander you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.
10 Proverbs 21:31 A horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory is of the LORD.

Zechariah 10:3 Summary

[Zechariah 10:3 tells us that God is angry with the leaders who have failed to care for His people, and He promises to punish them. But it also says that God will take care of His people, the house of Judah, and make them strong and courageous, like a powerful warhorse (as seen in Psalm 20:7). This means that we can trust in God's power and strength to overcome any challenge we face, and that He will always be with us to guide and protect us (as seen in Jeremiah 23:1-4).]

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Bible mean by 'shepherds' in Zechariah 10:3?

In this context, 'shepherds' refers to the leaders of God's people, as seen in Jeremiah 23:1-4, where God condemns the shepherds for scattering His flock. These leaders were responsible for guiding and protecting God's people, but they failed to do so, leading to God's anger and punishment.

Why does God say His anger burns against the shepherds in Zechariah 10:3?

God's anger burns against the shepherds because they have failed to care for His people, instead leading them astray and causing them harm, as seen in Ezekiel 34:1-10, where God condemns the shepherds for their selfishness and neglect of the flock.

What does it mean for God to make His people like His 'royal steed in battle'?

This phrase means that God will empower and strengthen His people, making them strong and courageous in the face of adversity, much like a powerful warhorse, as seen in Psalm 20:7, where God is praised for giving victory to the king and his horsemen.

How does Zechariah 10:3 relate to the rest of the chapter?

Zechariah 10:3 is part of a larger section that describes God's care for His people, the house of Judah, and His plan to restore and empower them, as seen in Zechariah 10:4-5, where God promises to give them strength and victory over their enemies.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some ways that I, as a leader or influencer, can ensure that I am caring for God's people and not leading them astray?
  2. How can I trust in God's power and strength to overcome the challenges I face, rather than relying on my own abilities?
  3. What does it mean for me to be part of God's 'flock', and how can I rest in His care and protection?
  4. In what ways can I, like the house of Judah, be a source of strength and courage for those around me, and how can I trust in God's power to accomplish this?

Gill's Exposition on Zechariah 10:3

Mine anger was kindled against the shepherds,.... The Targum interprets it of "kings"; as the "goats" of "princes", in the next clause; by whom, according to Jarchi, Aben Ezra, Kimchi, and Abarbinel,

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Zechariah 10:3

Mine anger was kindled against the shepherds, and I punished the goats: for the LORD of hosts hath visited his flock the house of Judah, and hath made them as his goodly horse in the battle.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Zechariah 10:3

Mine anger was kindled; though it was justly kindled against all, yet it was more hot and fierce against the chief sinners among them. Against the shepherds; officers in church and state, who neglected to keep the flock from straying, who were ringleaders in idolatry and soothsaying. I punished the goats; the wanton, lustful, and petulant officers among them, which, like he-goats, push. and wound, and trample under foot the feebler cattle, as ,17: these were more grievously punished, 39:6. Hath visited his flock, in favour and mercy. Hath made them as his goodly horse; with change of state hath changed their sheepish weakness and cowardice into strength, courage, and gallantry, like that of a goodly horse: this appeared in the Maccabees’ wars. In the battle; when all his courage is stirred up, and he appears, as Job brings him forth, with neck clothed with-thunder, . Mine anger was kindled; though it was justly kindled against all, yet it was more hot and fierce against the chief sinners among them. In the battle; when all his courage is stirred up, and he appears, as Job brings him forth, with neck clothed with-thunder, .

Trapp's Commentary on Zechariah 10:3

Zechariah 10:3 Mine anger was kindled against the shepherds, and I punished the goats: for the LORD of hosts hath visited his flock the house of Judah, and hath made them as his goodly horse in the battle.Ver. 3. Mine anger was kindled against the shepherds] Pastores Impostores; the greedy priests and false prophets, main causes of the captivity; because through their default there was no knowledge nor fear of God in the land, Isaiah 5:13 Hosea 4:6-7 Jeremiah 23:1 Ezekiel 34:1. And I punished the goats] The grandees and governors, temporal and ecclesiastical, see Ezekiel 34:17. They should have been as the he goats before the flock, Jeremiah 50:8, worthy guides to God. But they were goats in another sense, unruly, and nasty, and lascivious (as those two filthy fellows, for instance, whom for their adultery the King of Babylon roasted in the fire, Jeremiah 29:22), and such as begat kids of their own kind, men of their own make, and went before them in wickedness, as the goats lead the flocks. For the Lord of hosts] Better to read it, but the Lord of hosts, &c. And this is spoken for the comfort of those that called upon God, and abhorred idols, and idol shepherds, that were in special covenant with him, and therefore owned by him, as his flock, or peculiar charge. Now to such he promiseth to feed them as his sheep, and to furnish them as his horse for service, his goodly war horse, mainly respected by his master, as Bucephalus was by Alexander. This may in part be understood of the Maccabees’ victories; but principally of the apostles, those white horses, upon which they rode through the world, conquering and to conquer, Revelation 6:2. St Paul is fitly compared to that war horse in Job 39:20, whose neck is clothed with thunder, and the glory of his nostrils is terrible. He mocketh at fear, and turneth not back from the sword. He goeth on to meet the armed man, and swalloweth the ground with fierceness and rage.

Ellicott's Commentary on Zechariah 10:3

(3) Was kindled.—Better, is kindled. (Comp. Note on Zechariah 8:2.) Shepherds.—This term is used of native rulers and guides (Jeremiah 2:8; Jeremiah 17:16; Jeremiah 23:1-4; Ezekiel 34:2, &c.), and also of foreign rulers and oppressors (Jeremiah 6:3-4; Jeremiah 25:34-38; Jeremiah 49:19). I punished.—Better, I will punish.The [he] goats are, probably, to be identified with “the shepherds” (as seems to be the case in Ezekiel 34), and both to be referred to foreign rulers and leaders, since the latter part of the verse seems to denote that the whole people (see Zechariah 10:6-7, and comp. Zechariah 9:13) is to be changed from a timid flock into a nation of warriors.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Zechariah 10:3

Verse 3. Mine anger was kindled against the shepherds] Bad kings and bad priests. I will punish the goats; these were the wicked priests, who were shepherds by their office, and goats by the impurity of their lives. As his goodly horse in the battle.] The honourable war horse, or the horse that carried the general's equipage. In the unaccountable variation of interpreters on these chapters, this, among other things, is thought to be spoken of Matthias, and Judas Maccabeus, who assembled the people from all quarters, as a shepherd gathers his sheep together; and led them against the sons of Greece, the Seleucidae Greeks. Others refer every thing here to times before the captivity.

Cambridge Bible on Zechariah 10:3

3. was kindled … punished … hath made] is kindled … will punish … shall make, R. V. the shepherds] who though they were “no (true) shepherds,” yet retained the name and office. Quite parallel is the passage in Ezekiel (Ezekiel 34:5-6 with Ezekiel 34:7-10); where also (Ezekiel 10:17-22), as here, the rulers and principal men are spoken of as “goats,” as well as “shepherds.” his goodly horse] Comp. Zechariah 9:13; and for the image of the war-horse, Job 39:19-25.

Barnes' Notes on Zechariah 10:3

Mine anger was kindled against the shepherds - As Ezekiel continued, “Thus saith the Lord God; Behold I am against the shepherds, and I will require My flock at their hand” Ezekiel 34:10.

Whedon's Commentary on Zechariah 10:3

OF THE JEWS AND OF THE HOSTILE NATIONS, Zechariah 10:3 to Zechariah 11:3.When the Jews came into the power of hostile nations (Zechariah 10:2) they were governed by bad shepherds, that is, by cruel foreign rulers.

Sermons on Zechariah 10:3

SermonDescription
Dick Brogden Leaving Home by Dick Brogden Dick Brogden preaches about the true essence of Christmas, emphasizing that while it has become a season of comfort and gift-giving, the original Christmas was about God leaving th
Don Wilkerson Breaking the Bondage of an Ungodly Heritage by Don Wilkerson In this sermon, the speaker addresses the concept of breaking the chains of an ungodly heritage. He criticizes the idea that individuals are not personally responsible for their ac
Lew Clarkson Mid South Conference 1981-12 Ezekiel 34: by Lew Clarkson In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of giving while still alive. He shares a personal story of a trip to Las Vegas and witnessing
Thaddeus Barnum Emmanuel by Thaddeus Barnum In this sermon, the speaker encourages listeners to focus their attention on Jesus, the shepherd, rather than being consumed by fear and negativity. The speaker emphasizes the impo
A.W. Tozer The Heavy Responsibility of Sheep-Feeding by A.W. Tozer A.W. Tozer emphasizes the heavy responsibility of preaching, highlighting that true shepherds must address the specific needs of their congregation rather than delivering generic m
Thomas Brooks Hell's Greatest Enrichers! by Thomas Brooks Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of false teachers, who, like emissaries of Satan, lead people astray with deceptive doctrines that promise peace but ultimately lead to dest
Thomas Brooks Shouldn't Shepherds Feed Their Sheep? by Thomas Brooks Thomas Brooks addresses the critical role of shepherds in the church, emphasizing that true ministers should prioritize the spiritual nourishment of their congregations over person

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