It is amazing to read about the role of a shepherd in the ancient world. I was intrigued by Timothy Laniak statements on page 57 when he wrote: "This occupation put shepherds in a constant state of negotiation with an unpredictable physical and social environment. For these and other reasons, the shepherd naturally became an icon of leadership." A shepherd in the ancient world had to be independent and resourceful and adaptive at all times as weather changed constantly effecting their environment. They had to know and keep a close eye on each of their goats and/or sheep in their flocks. Only a leader, and a good one at that, can do all this well, and do it effectively day after and day for years.