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Book of Zechariah - Chapter 11 - Verse 10

11:10
And I took my staff, even Beauty, and cut it asunder, that I might break my covenant which I had made with all the people.

Meaning

In this verse, the speaker describes an act of breaking a covenant that was made with all the people. The use of the word "staff, even Beauty" symbolizes a cherished possession or a tool used for protection and guidance. By cutting the staff asunder, the speaker is symbolically severing the connection and breaking the covenant that was made. This action represents a significant decision to go against the agreement that was previously in place. It could be seen as a symbolic act of renouncing a promise or agreement that was once valued. The breaking of the staff demonstrates a clear intention to end the covenant and move forward in a new direction. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of breaking promises and the importance of holding true to commitments made with others.

Theological Overview

Within this verse, the act of cutting the staff named Beauty symbolizes the breaking of the covenant between God and the people of Israel. The staff, often representing authority and power in ancient times, was named Beauty to signify the goodness and blessings that God had bestowed upon his people. By breaking the staff, the covenant is being nullified, indicating the severe consequences of the people's disobedience and sinfulness. This act underscores the seriousness of breaking the trust and relationship between God and his chosen ones. The theological interpretation emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands in order to maintain the covenantal relationship established with his people. In this context, the word study of "Beauty" reveals the significance of God's grace and blessings that were associated with the covenant, which have now been forfeited due to the people's transgressions.

American Standard Version

And I took my staff Beauty, and cut it asunder, that I might break my covenant which I had made with all the peoples.
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