Contradiction with Ezekiel 34:15
This verse speaks of God Himself feeding and caring for His flock, which contrasts with the neglectful shepherd described in Zechariah 11:16.
Ezekiel 34:15: I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord GOD.
Contradiction with John 10:11
Jesus declares Himself the good shepherd who gives His life for the sheep, opposing the selfish shepherd in Zechariah 11:16.
John 10:11: I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
Contradiction with Psalm 23:1
Describes the Lord as a shepherd who provides for all needs, unlike the negligent shepherd in Zechariah 11:16.
Psalm 23:1: [A Psalm of David.] The LORD [is] my shepherd; I shall not want.
Contradiction with Isaiah 40:11
Speaks of God gathering the lambs and gently leading them, differing from the harsh shepherd in Zechariah 11:16.
Isaiah 40:11: He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry [them] in his bosom, [and] shall gently lead those that are with young. [that...: or, that give suck]
Contradiction with Jeremiah 31:10
Proclaims that God will keep and redeem His flock, contrasting with the shepherd's destructive role in Zechariah 11:16.
Jeremiah 31:10: Hear the word of the LORD, O ye nations, and declare [it] in the isles afar off, and say, He that scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd [doth] his flock.
Contradiction with Luke 15:4
Illustrates a shepherd leaving the ninety-nine to find the lost one, which is contrary to the shepherd's behavior in Zechariah 11:16.
Luke 15:4: What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?
Contradiction with 1 Peter 5:2
Urges shepherds to willingly and eagerly care for the flock, contrary to the description in Zechariah 11:16.
1 Peter 5:2: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight [thereof], not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; [which...: or, as much as in you is]
Paradox #1
Zechariah 11:16 can be seen to present a contradiction or inconsistency concerning the nature of leadership as it describes a shepherd who does not care for the flock. This seems to conflict with other biblical teachings that describe leaders, especially spiritual ones, as being caring and responsible, reflecting God’s own nature. For example, Psalm 23 and John 10 depict good shepherds who protect and nurture. The contradiction arises in reconciling these depictions of good and bad leadership under divine direction.
Paradox #2
Some people might see a contradiction or conflict in this verse because it talks about a leader who doesn't care for the well-being of the people, which conflicts with the belief that leaders should be responsible and compassionate. This could seem inconsistent with the idea of a just and caring divine plan.