[26] We have stated how working of the soil differs from husbandry and a worker of the soil from an husbandman. But we must consider whether there are not other cases like those which have been mentioned, in which the difference between the things signified is obscured by their passing under the same name. There are two such instances which we have found by careful search, and concerning which we will say, if we can, what ought to be said.
[27] For example, then, as in the case of “husbandman” and “soil-worker,” by resorting to allegory we found a wide difference in meaning to underly apparent identity, so shall we find it to be with “shepherd” and “cattle-rearer.” For the lawgiver speaks in some places of “cattle-rearing,” in others of “shepherding,”
[28] and people who have not acquired real accuracy will perhaps suppose that these are synonymous descriptions of the same pursuit, whereas they denote different things when words are rendered in the light of their deeper meaning.
[29] For though it is customary to apply to those who have charge of animals both names, calling them “cattle-rearers” and “shepherds” indiscriminately, yet we may not do so when we are speaking of the reasoning faculty to which the flock of the soul has been entrusted: for this ruler of a flock is called a “cattle-rearer” when he is a bad ruler, but, when a good and sterling one, he receives the name of “shepherd.” How this is, we will at once shew.