The theme of the LORD's anger against shepherds is a significant motif in the Bible, particularly in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament. The term "shepherds" is often used metaphorically to refer to leaders, especially those who are responsible for guiding and caring for God's people. When these leaders fail in their duties, they incur the LORD's wrath, as they are seen as betraying their divine mandate to protect and nurture the flock.

Jeremiah 23:1-2
In the book of Jeremiah, the LORD expresses His anger against the shepherds of Israel who have led His people astray. "Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of My pasture!" declares the LORD. "Therefore, this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says about the shepherds who tend My people: 'You have scattered My flock and driven them away, and you have not attended to them. Behold, I will attend to you for the evil of your deeds,' declares the LORD" (Jeremiah 23:1-2). Here, the shepherds are condemned for their negligence and failure to care for the people, resulting in their dispersion and vulnerability.

Ezekiel 34:2-10
Ezekiel also addresses the issue of unfaithful shepherds. The LORD commands Ezekiel to prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, accusing them of feeding themselves rather than the flock. "Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel. Prophesy and tell them that this is what the Lord GOD says: 'Woe to the shepherds of Israel, who only feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed their flock?'" (Ezekiel 34:2). The passage continues to describe how these leaders have failed to strengthen the weak, heal the sick, bind up the injured, bring back the strays, or search for the lost. Instead, they have ruled with harshness and brutality, prompting the LORD to declare that He Himself will search for His sheep and seek them out (Ezekiel 34:11).

Zechariah 10:3
The prophet Zechariah also speaks of the LORD's anger against the shepherds. "My anger burns against the shepherds, and I will punish the leaders. For the LORD of Hosts has tended His flock, the house of Judah, and will make them like His majestic horse in battle" (Zechariah 10:3). This passage highlights the LORD's direct intervention in response to the failure of the shepherds, emphasizing His commitment to His people and His intention to restore them.

New Testament Context
While the Old Testament primarily addresses the failure of Israel's leaders, the New Testament extends the metaphor of shepherds to church leaders. Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, contrasts with the hirelings who abandon the sheep (John 10:11-13). The apostle Peter exhorts church elders to "shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly" (1 Peter 5:2). This New Testament perspective underscores the continuity of God's expectations for those who lead His people.

The LORD's anger against shepherds serves as a sobering reminder of the responsibility borne by those in leadership positions. It underscores the importance of faithfulness, care, and integrity in guiding God's people, reflecting His own shepherding heart.