It took me about 8 minutes to read this passage. In chapter 11 verses 15-16 the Message presents the beginning of God’s message to Isaiah in these words; “Dress up like a stupid shepherd….” The root word which is translated “stupid” is defined as “opposed to the prudent or wise.” So what how would a stupid shepherd act? Since the job is to tend and care for the sheep a prudent shepherd would make sure the flock is healthy, safe, well fed, and properly watered. So a stupid shepherd will focus only on his needs, ignoring the needs of the flock. So now I wonder how Isaiah might have dressed. How would a good shepherd dress? Prepared for the well being of the flock; a staff for protection, a map to look for fresh pastures and water sources. They would wear warm clothes and sleeping gear for the nights spent outside with the flock. A stupid shepherd would carry only what he needs, and wear the clothing that he wants to wear. So I imagine that Isaiah might have walked around in a fancy impractical outfit. Maybe the equivalent of a three-piece-suit. Just my thoughts.
Stuart
2 comments:
I wonder what is wrong in a three-piece-suit? :)
Olga,
There is nothing wrong with a three-piece-suit. But I've never seen a sheep farmer all "dressed up" while he was out with the herd. The sheep farmers I know wear dirty bib overalls. I'm not sure they start out dirty, but they ended up that way.
Stuart
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