01
der Hirt
shepherd
A person who tends and cares for a herd of animals, especially sheep or goats.
example
Der Hirt führte seine Schafe auf eine neue Weide.
The shepherd led his sheep to a new pasture.
der Hirt
shepherd
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Der Hirt' (shepherd) belongs to the word family of 'hüten' (to guard/tend) and 'die Herde' (the herd/flock). A 'Hirt' is a person who tends a herd or flock, meaning they watch over it and protect it.
EXAMPLE
Ein Schäferhund hilft dem Hirten, die Herde zu hüten.
A sheepdog helps the shepherd tend the flock.
Context clue
You can recognize the figurative, religious meaning from words such as 'Gemeinde' (congregation), 'Kirche' (church), 'Seelen' (souls), or 'geistlich' (spiritual). In this context, the 'Hirt' (shepherd) is a leader who cares for a group of people.
EXAMPLE
Der Priester kümmert sich als geistlicher Hirt um die Sorgen seiner Gemeinde.
As a spiritual shepherd, the priest takes care of the concerns of his congregation.
Cultural context
The metaphor 'der gute Hirte' (the good shepherd) is very common in Christianity and refers to Jesus, who cares for his followers ('seine Herde' — his flock). The expression is often used as a symbol of care and guidance.
EXAMPLE
In der Predigt sprach der Pfarrer über das Bild des guten Hirten.
In the sermon, the pastor spoke about the image of the good shepherd.
Compare with
Hirt vs Pfarrer
pastor
'der Pfarrer' and 'der Hirt' can both have to do with spiritual leadership. 'Pfarrer' is the normal term for a clergy member who leads a Christian congregation. In this religious sense, 'Hirt' is more figurative and means a person who guides people and cares for them. The word sounds more solemn or religious and is not used as often as a normal job title or office. The words can be confused because a pastor is sometimes described as a spiritual 'Hirt' (shepherd). In practice: for the profession or office, say 'Pfarrer'; for the image of care and guidance, 'Hirt' can fit.
Hirt
In seiner Predigt sprach er vom guten Hirten, der für seine Gemeinde sorgt.
In his sermon, he spoke of the good shepherd who cares for his congregation.
Pfarrer
Der Pfarrer bereitet mit der Familie die Beerdigung vor.
The pastor is preparing the funeral with the family.
In real life
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