Why Tell the Shepherds First?

I have always wondered why God chose to announce His Son’s birth initially to a group of lowly shepherds. Some have suggested perhaps he was giving some sort of homage to “the least of these”. Okay… a good thought but to me it seemed there was more!

For the last 30 weeks I have attended a Hebrew class sponsored by the University of Jerusalem. It has been an awesome experience. Great professor!

Pondering this “why” question the class brought another angle to help with my question as to the “why announce it first to shepherds”.

Well… The announcement of the birth of Jesus to lowly shepherds carries profound significance, especially when considering the layers of meaning within the Hebrew language and its symbolism.

In Hebrew, the word "El" (אֵל) signifies God, with Alef representing power and leadership, akin to a bull, and Lamed symbolizing guidance and teaching, reminiscent of a shepherd's staff. This rich linguistic backdrop enhances the understanding that Jesus, referred to as both Elohim and Emanuel, (both containing אֵל) embodies the essence of the "chief shepherd."

Shepherds, often seen as humble and marginalized in society, held a unique connection to the land and the people. Their role in tending to sheep parallels the divine care and guidance that God offers humanity. By announcing the birth of Jesus to these lowly shepherds, the message emphasizes that God's love and grace are accessible to all, regardless of social status.

The shepherds, familiar with their role of vigilance and protection, would recognize the significance of the child in the manger as the chief shepherd, destined to lead and nurture his flock. This divine choice highlights the revolutionary nature of Jesus' mission—one rooted in humility, compassion, and a profound understanding of the human experience, inviting all to partake in the promise of salvation.

So on the first Christmas night, the shepherds were spectacularly notified first, that the Chief Shepherd (אֵל) had indeed arrived on this earth! Come… and meet  Him!