Contradiction with Psalm 23:1
This verse speaks of the Lord as a shepherd who provides and cares for his flock, which contrasts with the neglectful and exploitative shepherds described in Zechariah 11:5.
Psalm 23:1: [A Psalm of David.] The LORD [is] my shepherd; I shall not want.
Contradiction with John 10:11
Asserting Jesus as the good shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep contradicts the depiction of irresponsible shepherds who exploit their flock in Zechariah 11:5.
John 10:11: I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 34:11-12
God promises to search for and care for His sheep, contrasting with the shepherds in Zechariah 11:5 who abandon them.
Ezekiel 34:11-12: For thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I, [even] I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out.
Contradiction with Isaiah 40:11
Depicts God as a nurturing shepherd who gathers and gently leads his flock, differing from the callous behavior of shepherds in Zechariah 11:5.
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 23:4
God promises to set up shepherds who shall feed and protect the sheep, which contradicts the image of negligent shepherds in Zechariah 11:5.
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 21:17
Jesus' instruction to Peter to "feed my sheep" emphasizes care and responsibility, opposing the actions of the described shepherds in Zechariah 11:5.
John 21:17: He saith unto him the third time, Simon, [son] of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
Contradiction with Hebrews 13:20
Refers to Jesus as the great shepherd of the sheep, which contrasts with the negative portrayal of shepherds in Zechariah 11:5.
Hebrews 13:20: Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, [covenant: or, testament]
Contradiction with 1 Peter 5:2
Exhorts leaders to shepherd the flock willingly and eagerly, opposing the irresponsible shepherds in Zechariah 11:5.
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]
Contradiction with Matthew 9:36
Jesus’ compassion for the harassed and helpless crowd, like sheep without a shepherd, contrasts with the indifferent shepherds in Zechariah 11:5.
Matthew 9:36: But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. [fainted...: or, were tired and lay down]
Paradox #1
The verse in question might seem to show a contradiction when compared to other Bible teachings about justice and compassion. In Zechariah 11:5, there is an implication of people showing no remorse or regret for their actions, which might seem inconsistent with the general biblical message that emphasizes justice, mercy, and accountability. This verse appears to portray a scenario where wrongdoing is ignored or accepted, contrasting with teachings that stress the importance of caring for others and acting righteously.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Zechariah 11:5 arises from the verse's depiction of shepherds selling and slaughtering sheep without feeling guilty, suggesting a criticism of leadership. This might conflict with other parts of biblical texts, where leaders or shepherds are often portrayed as protectors or caretakers of their people. The inconsistency lies in how leaders are expected to behave versus how they are depicted in this context.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in Zechariah 11:5 could relate to the historical practices of buying and selling people. Today, this is viewed as unethical and against human rights principles, contrasting with a modern scientific understanding of human dignity and social justice.
Paradox #4
The moral conflict in Zechariah 11:5 could arise from the indifference and exploitation demonstrated by those in power. The verse might show those who suffer being neglected while those responsible feel no guilt or responsibility. This can be seen as inconsistent with moral teachings that emphasize compassion, accountability, and protection for the vulnerable.