600 B
600 B
guarding their flocks
A “flock” is a group of sheep. The shepherds were caring for their sheep, and protecting them from harm or theft.
a shining angel
This could also be translated as, “an angel surrounded by a bright light.” The shining light would have seemed even brighter in contrast to the darkness of the night.
they were terrified
The appearance of the supernatural angel was extremely frightening.
Do not be afraid
This often means, “stop being afraid.” The shepherds were very afraid when they saw the angel so he was telling them they did not need to be afraid.