In the Bible, the word "hireling" (or "hired servant") generally refers to someone who works for wages, but lacks the loyalty, dedication, and care of a true shepherd or owner. They are primarily motivated by financial gain and will abandon their duties in the face of danger or hardship.
Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of the term:
* Focus on Wages: The primary concern of a hireling is their pay. They are there for the money and not necessarily for a sense of duty or care for the flock/property.
* Lack of Loyalty and Care: Because their motivation is primarily financial, they don't have a deep, personal connection to what they are guarding or caring for. They are not invested in its well-being.
* Self-Interest: The hireling is more concerned with their own safety and comfort than with the well-being of those they are supposed to protect.
* Abandonment: When faced with danger, a hireling is likely to flee, leaving the flock or property vulnerable, as they don't have the commitment to risk themselves.
Biblical Context and Examples:
* John 10:11-13 (The Good Shepherd Discourse): This is the most prominent passage. Jesus contrasts Himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep with the hireling, "He who is a hireling and not the shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them. The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep." Here, the hireling represents false or inadequate leadership that abandons the flock when trouble arises.
* Other Implications: While John 10 is the most direct example, the concept of the hireling can be applied more broadly to anyone in a position of responsibility who is motivated by self-interest rather than genuine care and duty. This could include religious leaders, political leaders, or anyone else in a position of authority.
Symbolic Meaning:
The hireling is often used as a symbol of:
* False Shepherds/Leaders: Those who prioritize personal gain over the well-being of those they lead.
* Lack of Genuine Commitment: A superficial or transactional relationship with duty and responsibility.
* Self-Seeking: Being motivated by selfish desires rather than love and care.
In summary, a "hireling" in the Bible is a negative portrayal of someone who works for wages but lacks the commitment, loyalty, and genuine care that should characterize true leadership or responsibility. They are primarily motivated by money and will abandon their duties in the face of adversity. The term serves as a cautionary example of the dangers of self-interest and the importance of true dedication to one's calling.