Contradictions and Paradoxes in Zechariah 11:17

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Zechariah 11:17 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Zechariah 11:17. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Zechariah, God is unhappy with bad leaders who don't take care of their people. These leaders will face punishment, like losing their strength and losing sight in one eye, to show they didn't do their job well.

Zechariah 11:17: Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword [shall be] upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened.

Contradiction with Jeremiah 23:4

Zechariah 11:17 speaks of a shepherd that neglects the flock, while Jeremiah 23:4 promises shepherds who will care for and protect the sheep.

Jeremiah 23:4: And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking, saith the LORD.

Contradiction with John 10:11

Zechariah 11:17 describes a worthless shepherd, whereas John 10:11 presents Jesus as the good shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep.

John 10:11: I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

Contradiction with Ezekiel 34:23

Zechariah 11:17 discusses a foolish shepherd, while Ezekiel 34:23 speaks of God appointing a faithful shepherd, David, to care for His flock.

Ezekiel 34:23: And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, [even] my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd.

Contradiction with Psalm 23:1

Zechariah 11:17 describes the negative attributes of a shepherd, but Psalm 23:1 portrays the Lord as a shepherd who provides for all needs.

Psalm 23:1: [A Psalm of David.] The LORD [is] my shepherd; I shall not want.

Contradiction with Isaiah 40:11

Zechariah 11:17 conveys the harm caused by a bad shepherd, whereas Isaiah 40:11 illustrates God as a shepherd who lovingly gathers and leads his flock.

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]

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction in Zechariah 11:17 could arise from the verse's harshness and judgment against a "worthless shepherd." This might seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible that emphasize forgiveness and redemption. The conflict here is between the idea of severe punishment and the concept of offering second chances or grace.

Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.