Would Shepherds Break Sheep's Leg?

No, shepherds did not break the legs of wandering sheep… and neither does the Lord. Myth: “Shepherds in ancient Israel would break the leg of a sheep that kept wandering away. ... Although the retelling of this myth is often done as a well-meaning gesture of comfort, the myth is nonetheless injurious.

How does a shepherd discipline his sheep?

Because sheep tend to stray and will also follow wherever they are led, shepherds often had to discipline lambs that would stray from their shepherd. The shepherd would use his rod to break the leg of a wandering lamb. After binding the break, the shepherd would carry the lamb on his shoulders while the wound healed.

What does a shepherd do with sheep?

A shepherd's primary responsibility is the safety and welfare of the flock. Some flocks may include as many as 1,000 sheep. The shepherd will graze the animals, herding them to areas of good forage, and keeping a watchful eye out for poisonous plants. Shepherds often live in trailers or other mobile quarters.