VideoBible

Give Now

VideoBible

Give Now

Back to the Table of Contents

Shepherds

What was Shepherds?

The term “shepherds” in 2 Kings 9:17 refers not to individual characters but to a group of men tasked with the responsibility of watching over flocks and lands, often occupying positions of observation or vigilance in ancient Israel. In this particular passage, a watchman on the tower in Jezreel—likely a shepherd in function or origin—is the one who first notices the approach of Jehu’s company. The Hebrew word for shepherd is רֹעֶה (ro‘eh), which comes from the root meaning “to tend” or “to pasture.” The Greek equivalent in the Septuagint is ποιμήν (poimēn), a term used broadly for those who guide and care for others.

While shepherds are scattered throughout the biblical narrative, this reference in 2 Kings 9 serves as a symbolic moment of spiritual and political transition, as Jehu approaches to execute judgment and initiate a new regime.

Biblical Context and References

The mention of the watchman/shepherd occurs in 2 Kings 9:17:

“When the watchman standing on the tower in Jezreel saw Jehu’s troops approaching, he called out, ‘I see some troops coming.’” (NIV)

This watchman, stationed like a shepherd over the city, is the first to see Jehu, the newly anointed king of Israel, coming to fulfill God’s judgment against the house of Ahab (cf. 2 Kings 9:6-10). The shepherd-like figure alerts the royal court, initiating a sequence that leads to the downfall of Joram (Jehoram), Jezebel, and the eradication of Baal worship.

Other notable passages referencing shepherds include:

Explanation of the Passage in 2 Kings 9

In 2 Kings 9, the prophet Elisha commissions one of his disciples to anoint Jehu as king over Israel, declaring that Jehu would bring judgment upon the corrupt dynasty of Ahab. As Jehu rides toward Jezreel to confront King Joram, a watchman (often equated with a shepherd in function) spots his advance from a tower—a high place for oversight, common in both military and pastoral roles.

This moment is significant because it initiates the confrontation between God’s ordained judgment and Israel’s apostate leadership. The shepherd-like watchman is doing what shepherds must do—remain vigilant, discern threats, and alert others.

Theological Implications

The figure of the shepherd is rich in theological meaning throughout Scripture. Shepherds are leaders, protectors, and providers, but they also symbolize spiritual responsibility and care.

In 2 Kings 9, the watchman’s role foreshadows the importance of spiritual watchfulness. While he is likely not a literal shepherd tending sheep, the watchman acts in a way consistent with the biblical shepherd’s duty—keeping alert for danger, warning others, and initiating appropriate action.

The destruction that follows serves as a sobering warning about corrupt leadership and the consequences of forsaking the LORD. It also highlights how God uses faithful watchers and servants, even unnamed ones, to set His purposes in motion.

Literary Analysis

The narrative of 2 Kings 9 is fast-paced and dramatic, filled with prophetic fulfillment, political upheaval, and divine justice. The role of the watchman provides a brief but vital literary pause—a moment of observation and tension before judgment falls.

The watchman’s limited role emphasizes the quiet faithfulness of unnamed servants in God’s plan. His action—reporting what he sees—becomes a pivot point in the story, ushering in the fall of the old regime.

Cross-References

Application for Today’s Christians

The shepherd in 2 Kings 9 reminds believers today of the importance of vigilance, faithfulness, and spiritual discernment. Like the watchman, Christians are called to:

Church leaders are specifically called to be faithful shepherds, not lording over the flock but feeding and guiding them (1 Peter 5:1-4). But all believers share a shepherd-like responsibility to watch over one another, encourage the weak, and alert the wayward.

How the Story Points to Jesus

Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the shepherd motif. He is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep (John 10:11), in contrast to the unfaithful shepherds of Israel like Ahab and Jezebel’s dynasty.

In contrast to Jehu’s violent judgment, Jesus brings redemptive judgment—not by the sword, but by the cross. Still, like Jehu, He comes to overthrow false powers, cleanse the land of idolatry, and establish righteous rule. His second coming, like Jehu’s ride to Jezreel, will bring final judgment on evil and restoration for the faithful.

Broader Biblical Themes

  • God’s Judgment Against Corruption – God always judges idolatry and injustice, whether in ancient Israel or today.

  • The Role of the Faithful Servant – Even unnamed figures (like the watchman) have crucial parts in God’s story.

  • Shepherding as Spiritual Leadership – God calls leaders to shepherd His people with care, humility, and integrity.

  • Jesus as the Fulfillment – All shepherd imagery in Scripture ultimately points to Christ, who is both watchman and redeemer.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what ways are you acting as a spiritual watchman in your home, church, or community?

  2. What false influences or dangers do you need to warn others about today?

  3. How does the contrast between Jehu’s violent judgment and Jesus’ redemptive judgment shape your view of God’s justice?

  4. What qualities do you think God desires in His shepherds today?

  5. How does Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd bring comfort, direction, and security to your life?

The shepherd in 2 Kings 9 may only appear briefly, but his watchfulness plays a key role in God’s plan. He reminds us that vigilance and faithfulness, even in unseen roles, matter deeply in the unfolding of God‘s redemptive work.

Related Videos