Emily Dickinson Lexicon

SHEP'HERD, n. [Sax. sceap-heard or hyrd; sheep and herd.]

1. A man employed in tending, feeding, and guarding sheep in the pasture. – Milton.
2. A swain; a rural lover. – Raleigh.
3. The pastor of a parish, church, or congregation; a minister of the Gospel, who superintends a church or parish, and gives instruction in spiritual things. God and Christ are in Scripture denominated Shepherds, as they lead, protect, and govern their people, and provide for their welfare. – Ps. xxiii. lxxx. John x.