Book	Chapter	Verse	ID	SupportReference	OrigQuote	Occurrence	GLQuote	OccurrenceNote
MIC	front	intro	hp4d			0		# Introduction to Micah<br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of Micah<br><br>1. God promises to punish the northern and southern kingdoms (1:1–16)<br>1. Those who take advantage of others are guilty (2:1-3:12)<br>    * Rich people who oppress poor people (2:1–11)<br>    * Promise to be delivered and restored (2:12–13)<br>    * Rulers, priests, and prophets condemned (3:1–12)<br>1. Yahweh’s victory for all Israel (4:1-5:15)<br>    * Yahweh will rule over all the nations (4:1–10)<br>    * Israel will be destroyed, then will be victorious over its enemies (4:11–13)<br>    * Messiah will shepherd his flock and devastate the nations who fought against him (5:1–6)<br>    * Messiah will destroy everything that harmed his people (5:7–15)<br>1. Yahweh’s case against Israel (6:1-16)<br>    * Yahweh reminds Israel when he led them out of slavery in Egypt (6:1–5)<br>    * Israel punished; true repentance (6:6–16)<br>1. Israel miserable and Israel restored (7:1-20)<br>    * Israel broken and miserable (7:1–7)<br>    * Israel will rise again (7:8–13)<br>    * Yahweh restores and gives grace (7:14–20)<br><br>### What is the Book of Micah about?<br><br>This book contains many of Micah’s prophecies. Micah repeated many similar prophecies as found in Isaiah. Micah warned the kingdoms of Israel and Judah that the Assyrians would soon attack them. Micah condemned those who acted unjustly and immorally. He spoke against those who did not work for a living. He also spoke against the false prophets in Israel and Judah. These false prophets were telling the people that Yahweh would never let a foreign kingdom harm or conquer them.<br><br>Micah called the people to please Yahweh by living righteous and holy lives. However, the sinful way they lived and the unjust way they treated their fellow countrymen proved that they no longer wanted to obey and honor Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may decide to translate the traditional title “The Book of Micah” or just “Micah” in a way that is clearer to the readers. They may decide to call it “The Sayings of Micah.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>### Who wrote Micah?<br><br>The prophet Micah probably wrote this book. Micah lived at the same time as Isaiah and Hosea. This was sometime between 750 and 700 B.C., during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. He began prophesying when he lived in the northern kingdom of Israel. Then he moved to the kingdom of Judah.<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### Who is the deliverer Micah mentions?<br><br>Micah frequently mentioned a king who would deliver the people. It is clear that Micah meant the Messiah, the descendant of David who would rule forever, though he never referred to him as the Messiah. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/deliverer]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])<br><br>### Were the Israelites required to offer sacrifices or live holy lives to please Yahweh?<br><br>Many of the Old Testament writers were concerned with offering sacrifices according to the law of Moses. However, Micah explained to the people that Yahweh was pleased only when they offered these sacrifices in faith. Without faith, the sacrifices had no meaning. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]])<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### Why does Micah 1:10-16 sound unusual?<br><br>This passage sounds unusual because of how it is constructed in Hebrew. It includes what is called a play on words. The names of the cities were used to describe how they would be destroyed. For example, in Hebrew “Lachish” sounds like “to the chariots.” This is a poetic form that might not be the actual way they would be punished.<br><br>### What does a translator need to know before translating Micah?<br><br>Micah did not often explain how his prophecies were historically situated. This may result in the translator failing to understand implicit information unless they understand Micah’s time. It is therefore suggested that translators understand well the history of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])<br><br>### How do I translate passages where the speaker or addressee is not mentioned explicitly?<br><br>Micah did not usually say who was speaking or who was being addressed. Reading the verses before and after the quote will often help the reader to understand who is speaking or being addressed. It is acceptable to make this information explicit so the reader can more easily understand it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>### How should the text of Micah be formatted?<br><br>The ULT uses a poetic language style like the Hebrew text. Many languages can do this but some languages will not be able to do this. The ULT also sets apart the poetic portions of the text by setting the poetic lines farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. With the exception of the first verse, the entire book is indented because the prophecies were written as a series of poems.
MIC	1	intro	e47z			0		# Micah 1 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Micah is written mainly in a poetic form. Most of the prophets wrote to either the Northern Kingdom or the Southern Kingdom. Micah wrote to both of them at times without clear distinction, as he did in this chapter.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### City Names<br><br>This passage sounds unusual in English because of its construction in Hebrew. It contains several “puns” or “plays on words.” The names of the cities are used to describe their destruction. “Lachish will be lashed” is an example of this type of construction. This poetic element might metaphors describing the actual way they will be punished. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	1	1	bv15	figs-parallelism		0	General Information:	God speaks through Micah to the people of Israel using poetry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
MIC	1	1	c3k1	figs-idiom		0	the word of Yahweh that came	This idiom is used to explain that a God gave a message to someone. Alternate translation: “the message that Yahweh spoke” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MIC	1	1	ar46			0	Yahweh	This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.
MIC	1	1	c9rj	translate-names		0	the Morashtite	This means he is from Moresheth which is a town in Judah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
MIC	1	1	ts92			0	in the days of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah	Alternate translation: “when Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah”
MIC	1	1	d1fd			0	which he saw	Alternate translation: “which he heard in a vision”
MIC	1	2	ya6p			0	General Information:	Micah 1:2-7 is about God’s judgment on Samaria.
MIC	1	2	x9l2	figs-apostrophe		0	Listen, all you peoples. Listen, earth, and all that is in you	This begins Micah’s prophecy. Micah speaks to the people of Samaria as if all the people of the earth and even the earth itself were able to hear him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
MIC	1	3	i37k	figs-metaphor		0	he will come down and tread on the high places of the earth	Micah speaks as if Yahweh were a mighty soldier coming down from heaven and beginning to march on top of the mountains. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	1	3	gq79			0	he will … tread	Alternate translation: “he will … march”
MIC	1	3	c6u6			0	the high places of the earth	Alternate translation: “the high mountains”
MIC	1	4	dgb2	figs-metaphor		0	The mountains will melt under him; the valleys will break apart, like wax before fire, like waters that are poured down a steep place	Micah speaks as if Yahweh were a hot, solid object that melted the earth as it moved. Alternate translation: “He will crush the mountains and the valleys as he marches over them; he will destroy them, and they will completely disappear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	1	5	rgh7	figs-metonymy		0	because of the sins of the house of Israel	The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house, in this case the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “because the people of Israel have sinned against me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	1	5	a7g1			0	All this is	Alternate translation: “The Lord will come and judge”
MIC	1	5	efa8	figs-metonymy		0	What is Jacob’s transgression?	The name “Jacob” is a metonym for those of his descendants who live in the northern kingdom of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	1	5	t7bt	figs-metonymy		0	Is it not Samaria?	Here “Samaria” is a metonym for the evil activities that take place there. Micah uses a question to emphasize that the people know what the truth is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know that it is Samaria.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	1	5	rj3v	figs-synecdoche		0	What is Judah’s high place?	Here “high place” is a synecdoche for the entire system of idol worship. “Judah” is a metonym for the people who live there. Alternate translation: “Where do the people of Judah go to worship idols?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	1	5	rjt6	figs-metonymy		0	Is it not Jerusalem?	Here “Jerusalem” is a metonym for the evil activities that take place there. Micah uses a question to emphasize that the people know what the truth is. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know that it is Jerusalem.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	1	6	m3rh			0	I will make	Here “I” refers to Yahweh.
MIC	1	6	wu3l	figs-metaphor		0	Samaria … her stones … her foundations	Yahweh speaks of Samaria as if the city were a woman. Alternate translation: “Samaria … its stones … the foundations of the buildings in the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	1	6	mrm3			0	I will pour her stones	Here “her” refers to the city of Samaria.
MIC	1	7	eu6l	figs-metaphor		0	her carved figures … her gifts that she received … her idols	Yahweh speaks of Samaria as if the city were a woman. Alternate translation: “the carved figures in the city … the gifts that people gave to the temple in the city … the idols in the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	1	7	n921	figs-activepassive		0	All her carved figures will be broken to pieces	This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I will break all her carved figures to pieces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	1	7	a2ef	figs-activepassive		0	all her gifts … will be burned with fire	This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I will burn with fire all the gifts that she received” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	1	7	nci4			0	she received	Alternate translation: “people gave her”
MIC	1	7	syr2	figs-metaphor		0	Since she gathered her gifts from the wages of prostitutes, they will become the wages of prostitutes again	Yahweh speaks of the people giving gifts to idols as if the people were hiring prostitutes. When the Assyrians destroy Samaria, they will take to Assyria the gifts the people of Samaria gave to their idols and give them as gifts to their own idols. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MIC	1	8	y14v			0	General Information:	Micah 1:8-16 is about God’s judgment on Judah.
MIC	1	8	agj7			0	I will lament	Here “I” refers to Micah.
MIC	1	8	evd3			0	I will lament and wail	“Lament” refers to the inner feeling of sadness, and “wail” refers to the activity of making a loud, sad sound.
MIC	1	8	sl7i			0	I will go barefoot and naked	This is a sign of extreme mourning and distress. Another possible meaning is “I will look like someone has taken off my clothes; I will be naked”
MIC	1	8	ly5n			0	naked	probably wearing only a loincloth
MIC	1	8	y5zc	figs-simile		0	like the jackals … like owls	Jackals and owls live in wastelands, and their loud cries sound like people wailing or weeping. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
MIC	1	9	v3yc	figs-metaphor		0	For her wound is incurable	Here “her” refers to the city of Samaria. This means nothing can stop the enemy army from destroying the people who live there. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	1	9	j8a2	figs-metaphor		0	for it has come to Judah	Micah uses contagious disease as a metaphor for the army that Yahweh has sent to judge Samaria. Here “it” refers to the “wound,” that is, to the army that God will use to punish Samaria. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	1	10	ty72	translate-names		0	Beth Leaphrah	You may want to make a footnote saying, “The name of this city means ‘house of dust.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
MIC	1	10	zki3	translate-symaction		0	I roll myself in the dust	People under God’s judgment are expressing their grief in a strong way. Alternate translation: “I roll myself on the ground” or “I roll myself in the mud” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
MIC	1	11	fc7v			0	General Information:	The meanings of the names of the villages is important to Micah here. You may want to include the meanings of the names of the places in a footnote.
MIC	1	11	n7tt	translate-names		0	Shaphir	The name of this city sounds like one meaning “beautiful.” It contrasts with “nakedness and shame.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
MIC	1	11	aq1u	figs-idiom		0	in nakedness and shame	This idiom makes explicit that the people will be totally naked. Alternate translation: “totally naked and ashamed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MIC	1	11	r6st			0	Zaanan	The name of this city means “go out.” They are too afraid to go out and help.
MIC	1	11	m77i			0	Beth Ezel	The name of this city means “house of taking away.”
MIC	1	11	ad97	figs-activepassive		0	for their protection is taken away	This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “for I have taken away everything that might protect them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	1	12	c45f			0	Maroth	The name of this city means “bitterness.”
MIC	1	12	wuv4	figs-abstractnouns		0	disaster has come down from Yahweh	The abstract noun **disaster** is spoken of here as a solid object rolling down a hill. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **disaster**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has caused bad things to happen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	1	13	qn9h	translate-names		0	Lachish	The name “Lachish” sounds like “to the chariots” in Hebrew. The people are hitching their chariots to flee, not fight. Lachish was the most important city after Jerusalem in Judah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
MIC	1	13	t76u	figs-metonymy		0	the daughter of Zion	The word “daughter” is a metonym for the people of the city. Alternate translation: “the people of Zion” or “the people who live in Zion” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	1	13	b2dc	figs-activepassive		0	for the transgressions of Israel were found in you	This idiom can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “for you disobeyed like the people of Israel did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MIC	1	14	yl23	translate-names		0	Moresheth Gath	You may want to add a footnote saying “The name ‘Moresheth’ means ‘to depart.’ It is also similar in sound to the word for ‘fiancée.’” In this metaphor, Moresheth is the bride that Assyria takes, and the “parting gift” is the dowry, the gift her family gives for her to take into the marriage. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	1	14	k4w1			0	Akzib	You may want to add a footnote saying “The name of this town sounds almost the same as the Hebrew expression for ‘deceitful thing.’”
MIC	1	15	xs9b			0	I will again bring	Here “I” refers to Yahweh.
MIC	1	15	vu14	translate-names		0	Mareshah	You may want to make a footnote saying, “The name of this village sounds like the Hebrew word for ‘conqueror.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
MIC	1	15	wh3u	translate-names		0	Adullam	This is the name of a royal city in Philistia. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
MIC	1	16	i5ub	translate-symaction		0	Shave your head and cut off your hair	Israelites who were mourning would shave bald spots on their heads. This could mean: (1) “Shave larger spots than usual on your heads” or (2) “Cut off all your hair and shave your heads,” stating the events in the order in which they were to occur. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
MIC	1	16	nb8x			0	eagles	This word can also be translated “vultures.”
MIC	2	intro	jy29			0		# Micah 2 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter continues using poetic forms in communicating that people who take advantage of others are guilty of sin and injustice. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/guilt]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Context<br><br>Micah does not frequently explain the historical context of his prophecies. This may result in the translator failing to understand implicit information. Additional research may be needed regarding the time period of Micah’s ministry. Therefore, translators have a good understanding of the history of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MIC	2	1	c11k			0	General Information:	Micah speaks against the leaders in Israel who are taking advantage of the poor and not following God’s commands.
MIC	2	2	r4qb			0	They oppress a man	“They oppress any man they choose to oppress.” This is a generalization. Micah is not speaking of one individual man here.
MIC	2	3	r7sk			0	Look	Alternate translation: “Listen carefully” or “Pay attention”
MIC	2	3	e8pn			0	disaster	See how you translated this in [Micah 1:12](../01/12.md).
MIC	2	3	zi71			0	this clan	This “clan” refers to the entire community of Israel, whose rich people are oppressing the poor. The sins of the leaders are coming back on the whole nation.
MIC	2	3	k4i7	figs-metaphor		0	from which you will not remove your necks	Yahweh speaks of punishing the people as if he were putting a yoke around their necks. Alternate translation: “from which you will not be able to escape” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	2	4	t7xt			0	sing a song about you	Alternate translation: “sing a song to make fun of you”
MIC	2	4	ymz1	figs-irony		0	lament with a wailing lamentation	“they will cry loudly.” They are pretending to mourn, as if those they love have died. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
MIC	2	4	frk2	figs-irony		0	We Israelites … to traitors	This is the song that the enemies will sing to make fun of the Israelites and laugh as the Israelites suffer. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
MIC	2	4	hz57	figs-rquestion		0	How can he remove it from me?	The enemy mocks the surprise the rich leaders of Israel feel because God has taken their land and given it to someone else just as they had taken the land from the poor. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “How wrong he is to take it from me!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
MIC	2	5	rnf9			0	Therefore, you rich people will have no descendants to divide up the territory by lot in the assembly of Yahweh	This could mean: (1) Micah looks forward to a time after the exile when those who return will divide up the land or (2) he is speaking of a custom of his time when the tribe or clan would divide up their land and give it to individuals.
MIC	2	6	eli9			0	General Information:	Micah speaks to false prophets, as well as to the rich who have abused their power.
MIC	2	6	a888	figs-you		0	Do not prophesy	The speakers are speaking to Micah and to others, so this is plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	2	6	iph5			0	they say	Alternate translation: “the people of Israel say”
MIC	2	6	nl1s			0	They must not prophesy	Alternate translation: “The prophets must not prophesy”
MIC	2	6	dqe6	figs-metaphor		0	reproaches must not come	Reproach is spoken of as if it were a robber chasing a person. It can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “we will not allow you to reproach us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MIC	2	7	d2pm	figs-rquestion		0	Should it really be said…“Is the Spirit … his deeds?”	Micah is scolding the Israelites by using this question. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know that you do not need to ask…‘Is the Spirit … his deeds?’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	2	7	cd55	figs-metonymy		0	house of Jacob	The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to Jacob’s descendants. Alternate translation: “descendants of Jacob” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	2	7	hr6w	figs-rquestion		0	said…“Is the Spirit of Yahweh angry? Are these really his deeds?”	This could mean: (1) the people really do not know if they are seeing Yahweh act. Alternate translation: “asked…‘Is the Spirit of Yahweh angry? Are these really his deeds?’” or (2) the people do not believe that Yahweh is really punishing them. These rhetorical questions can be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “said…‘The Spirit of Yahweh is not really angry. These are not really his deeds.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	2	7	dhy6	figs-rquestion		0	Do not my words do good to anyone who walks uprightly?	Micah uses a question to teach the people. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “My message does good to those who walk uprightly.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	2	8	nby2			0	my people	Here, **my people** could mean: (1) Micah’s people or (2) Yahweh’s people.
MIC	2	8	h252	figs-metaphor		0	You strip the robe, the garment, from those who pass by unsuspectingly	This could mean: (1) the wicked rich people are literally stealing robes from the poor or (2) creditors are keeping the outer garments of the poor who come to borrow money and give the garment as assurance they will repay. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	2	9	vit8			0	you take my blessing from their young children forever	This refers, in general, to blessings God has given to his people. It could refer to (1) being landowners in Israel, (2) a promising future or (3) to the children’s fathers, farmers who worked hard to establish the nation.
MIC	2	9	sez8			0	my blessing	Micah speaks as if he were Yahweh.
MIC	2	10	x485	figs-activepassive		0	it is destroyed with complete destruction	This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I will completely destroy it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	2	11	fn9u	figs-you		0	comes to you … will prophesy to you	Micah is speaking to the people of Judah, so both instances of “you” are plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	2	11	mwp4	figs-you		0	he would be considered	This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “the people would consider him” or “you would consider him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	2	12	l2ie	figs-you		0	all of you, Jacob	Micah is speaking to some of the descendants of Jacob, so the word “you” is plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	2	13	wz2q			0	Someone who breaks open their way … Yahweh will be at their head.	This is a picture of a king leading his people out of an enclosed city.
MIC	3	intro	wy5w			0		# Micah 3 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Justice<br><br>An unjust society was considered sinful. It was considered to be against the law of Moses. If these kingdoms did not have justice, they were not obedient to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>There are vivid pictures used in this chapter which show how the leaders of the people were treating the Israelites. These situations are absurd unless taken as a metaphor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	3	1	lg8w			0	General Information:	Chapter 3 focuses on the corrupt leaders in Israel.
MIC	3	1	bi75			0	I said	Here “I” refers to Micah.
MIC	3	1	cd9l	figs-rquestion		0	Is it not right for you to understand justice?	Micah is scolding the leaders. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You act as though you think it is wrong for you to understand justice.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	3	2	e3yk			0	Connecting Statement:	Micah begins to compare the leaders of Israel to butchers.
MIC	3	2	ep25	figs-nominaladj		0	hate good and love evil	These nominal adjectives can be translated as adjectives. Alternate translation: “hate everything that is good and love everything that is evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
MIC	3	2	y42g	figs-metaphor		0	you who tear off their skin, their flesh from their bones	A butcher cutting up animals into meat is a metaphor for the leaders being cruel to the poor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	3	3	vja6			0	Connecting Statement:	Micah finishes comparing the leaders of Israel to butchers.
MIC	3	3	vs7q	figs-metaphor		0	just like meat in a cauldron	A butcher cutting up animals into meat is a metaphor for the leaders being cruel to the poor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	3	4	pu9j			0	cry out to Yahweh	Alternate translation: “shout to Yahweh for help”
MIC	3	4	uuv7			0	he will not answer you	Alternate translation: “he will not do what you ask him to do”
MIC	3	4	ru8j	figs-metaphor		0	He will hide his face from you	Hiding the face is a metaphor for refusing to listen. Alternate translation: “He will turn his face away from you and cover it” or “You will see that he has no desire to help you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	3	5	wvm2	figs-metaphor		0	who lead my people astray	Walking on a good path is a metaphor for obeying God. Going astray from the path is a metaphor for disobeying God, in this case perhaps without knowing it. Alternate translation: “who lead my people to disobey me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	3	5	uud3	figs-metaphor		0	if one gives them something to eat, they proclaim, ‘Peace.’	Micah is using a metaphor to describe a situation that actually happens. The phrase “something to eat” is an ironic way of speaking of a small payment. Alternate translation: “they tell people who pay them even a small amount that things will go well for those people.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
MIC	3	5	jn8z	figs-metaphor		0	if he puts nothing in their mouths, they dedicate themselves to wage war on him	Micah is using a metaphor to describe a situation that actually happens. The phrase “puts nothing in their mouths” is an ironic exaggeration for not giving what they want. Alternate translation: “they do all they can to destroy people who pay them too little” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
MIC	3	6	v4xh	figs-metaphor		0	it will be night for you … the day will be dark on them	Darkness is a metaphor for Yahweh not speaking to the prophets. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	3	6	r42r			0	no vision for you	Alternate translation: “you will no longer see visions”
MIC	3	7	xh15	figs-activepassive		0	The seers will be put to shame, and the diviners will be confused	This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I will cause the seers to be ashamed, and I will confuse the diviners” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	3	7	pe2m	figs-metonymy		0	All of them will cover their lips	Here “lips” represents speaking. Alternate translation: “They shall no longer speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	3	7	s6nk			0	there is no answer from me	Alternate translation: “I will be silent”
MIC	3	8	ku3z			0	But as for me	Here “me” refers to Micah, a true prophet, setting himself apart from the false prophets.
MIC	3	8	qw2h	figs-metaphor		0	I am full of power by the Spirit of Yahweh, and am full of justice and might	Micah speaks of himself as if he were a container into which Yahweh were pouring a liquid. Alternate translation: “the Spirit of Yahweh has given me power, justice, and might” or “the Spirit of Yahweh has enabled me to be strong, to declare what justice is, and to be mighty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	3	8	h3w3	figs-metonymy		0	to declare to Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin	Here “Jacob” and “Israel” are metonyms for Jacob’s descendants. Micah uses both names to emphasize that all of his descendants are guilty of sin. The abstract nouns “transgression” and “sin” can be translated using verbs. Alternate translation: “to declare to Jacob’s descendants that they have broken Yahweh’s law; I am telling the people of Israel that they have all sinned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MIC	3	9	ral1	figs-metonymy		0	house of Jacob	The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to Jacob’s descendants. Alternate translation: “descendants of Jacob” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	3	9	rm8t	figs-metonymy		0	the house of Israel	The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to Israel’s descendants, who had become the nation of Israel. Alternate translation: “descendants of Israel” or “you Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	3	9	ujn2			0	detest	strongly dislike
MIC	3	10	ca1v	figs-metaphor		0	You build Zion with blood and Jerusalem with iniquity	“Blood” here is a metonym for murder, and “Zion” and “Jerusalem” are spoken of as if they were buildings. Micah speaks of the rich murdering people and sinning in other ways as if those activities were the bricks and wood with which people use to build houses. Alternate translation: “You commit murder and other horrible sins as you work to make Zion and Jerusalem great” or “You commit murder as you worship in Zion, and you commit other sins as you get rich in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	3	11	yn4t	figs-rquestion		0	Is not Yahweh with us?	The leaders strongly believe that Yahweh is with them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “We know that Yahweh is with us!” or “We know that Yahweh will help us do what we want to do!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	3	11	aeh5			0	evil	See how you translated “disaster” in [Micah 1:12](../01/12.md).
MIC	3	12	r9xr			0	because of you	Here “you” refers to the priests, prophets, and leaders ([Micah 3:11](../03/11.md)).
MIC	3	12	aqg2	figs-metaphor		0	Zion will become a plowed field … and the hill of the temple will become a thicket	“Zion” and “the hill of the temple” refer to the same place. When a farmer plows a field, he turns over all the dirt and uproots all the plants that are growing there. A thicket is so full of bushes that no one can use it for anything. These two metaphors cannot be literally true at the same time, but they emphasize that Yahweh will allow the invaders to completely destroy the temple area. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	3	12	k2is			0	a plowed field	Alternate translation: “a field that a farmer has plowed”
MIC	3	12	m86y			0	a thicket	a place where many small woody plants grow
MIC	4	intro	pzv8			0		# Micah 4 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter continues the poetic form to communicate that God will one day restore Israel. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Remanant<br><br>Micah speaks about a future hope and a remnant who will return to their homeland. Verses 1-8 are a vision of the future when God will restore Israel to its former glory. These verses will give hope to those about to be removed from their homeland. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/remnant]])
MIC	4	1	rn5h	figs-metaphor		0	the mountain … other mountains	Yahweh making the temple mount higher than all other mountains and hills is a metaphor for making his temple the most important place on earth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	4	1	a15l	figs-activepassive		0	the mountain of Yahweh’s house will be established	This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will establish the mountain on which his temple is built” or “Yahweh will make the mountain on which his temple is built great” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	4	1	pbd3			0	over the other mountains	Mount Zion will be the most important of all the mountains. It might also mean that this mountain will become the highest in the world, and not only in the region where it is located.
MIC	4	1	ttd5	figs-activepassive		0	It will be exalted above the hills	This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will exalt it above the hills” or “Yahweh will make it higher than the hills” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	4	1	w891	figs-metaphor		0	peoples will stream to it	A stream flows continually to one place from many directions. Many people come to the temple mount from different directions. Alternate translation: “the people of the nations will flow like a stream to it” or “the people of the nations will go to it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	4	2	gve4	figs-metonymy		0	Many nations	The word “nations” is a metonym for the people of the nations. Alternate translation: “The people from many nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	4	2	tm7v	figs-you		0	Come	This is plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	4	2	hju4	figs-metaphor		0	He will teach us his ways, and we will walk in his paths	Here “his ways” and “his paths” refer to what God wants the people to do. “Walk” means they will obey what he says. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	4	2	wix6	figs-metaphor		0	from Zion the law will go out, and the word of Yahweh from Jerusalem	The law and the word going out is a metaphor for people hearing it and then being messengers to tell other people about it in other places. Alternate translation: “people will listen to the law in Zion and go out and tell others; they will listen to the word of Yahweh in Jerusalem and go out and tell others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	4	2	uuk9	figs-ellipsis		0	and the word of Yahweh from Jerusalem	The words “will go out” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “and the word of Yahweh will go out from Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
MIC	4	3	b5yy			0	plowshares	a blade that people use to dig into soil so they can plant seeds
MIC	4	3	l4ud			0	pruning hooks	a metal tool that people use to cut off branches or stems from plants
MIC	4	3	vin5			0	will not lift up sword	will not threaten to start a war
MIC	4	4	h22j	figs-explicit		0	they will sit every person under his vine and under his fig tree	Both the “vine” and the “fig tree” are symbols of prosperity. This phrase describes actions in which people live prosperously and in peace. If grapevines or fig trees are unknown you can translate this more generally. Alternate translation: “they will sit peacefully in their own gardens and fields” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MIC	4	4	j4rc	figs-synecdoche		0	for the mouth of Yahweh of hosts has spoken	The mouth is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh of hosts has spoken” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MIC	4	5	iek8	figs-metaphor		0	the peoples walk … in the name of their god … we will walk in the name of Yahweh	Walking on a path is a metaphor for living one’s life. Walking in the name of someone is a metaphor for worshiping and obeying. Alternate translation: “the peoples … worship and obey their god … we will worship and obey Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	4	6	c9uu	figs-synecdoche		0	the lame	This refers to those who cannot walk well. Being lame is a synecdoche for having any form of disability. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MIC	4	6	ri25			0	gather the outcast	Alternate translation: “gather those whom I drove out of Jerusalem”
MIC	4	7	b2he	figs-activepassive		0	the ones driven away into a strong nation	The words “I will turn” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated. The phrase “the ones driven away” can be translated with an active verb. Alternate translation: “I will turn the ones I drove away into a strong nation” or “I will make the ones I forcefully sent away into a strong nation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
MIC	4	8	c64g	figs-apostrophe		0	As for you, watchtower for the flock, hill of the daughter of Zion—to you it will come, your former dominion	Micah speaks to the people of Jerusalem by speaking to the temple mount as if it could hear him. You may need to make explicit that Micah is giving his message to the people. Alternate translation: “As for the temple mount, the place from which Yahweh watches over you, his sheep, the place that Jerusalem’s people are most proud of—its former dominion will return” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
MIC	4	8	y9gn	figs-metaphor		0	watchtower for the flock	The people of Jerusalem protecting the other people in surrounding areas is spoken of as if they were a shepherd in a watchtower watching over his flock. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	4	8	p2dj	figs-metaphor		0	daughter of Zion … daughter of Jerusalem	The people who live in a place are spoken of as if the place is a mother and they are the daughter. Alternate translation: “people who live in Zion … people who live in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	4	8	tc2d			0	hill	Some modern versions understand this Hebrew word to mean “fortress” or “stronghold” here.
MIC	4	8	ccs1	figs-abstractnouns		0	to you it will come, your former dominion	If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **dominion**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “you will rule over the nations as you did before” or “I will make you rule over the nations as you did before” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MIC	4	9	g6px	figs-rquestion		0	Now, why do you shout so loudly?	Micah is mocking the people, trying to make them think about why God is dealing with them in this way. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Look at how you are shouting loudly.” or “Think carefully about why you are shouting loudly.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	4	9	b1zk	figs-rquestion		0	Is there no king among you? Has your counselor died? Is this why pain grips you like that of a woman in labor?	Micah continues to mock the people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea behind these questions as statements. Alternate translation: “You have a king, but he is useless to you. All your wise people are still alive, but they have nothing wise to say to you. This is why you are weeping loudly like a woman who is giving birth to a baby.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
MIC	4	10	qn9l	figs-simile		0	Be in pain … like a woman in labor	Micah compares the suffering the people will experience when enemies force them away from their cities to the pain a woman experiences when giving birth to a baby. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
MIC	4	10	rci7	figs-activepassive		0	There you will be rescued. There Yahweh will rescue you	Yahweh says the same thing in both active and passive forms to emphasize that he will do what he has said he will do. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “There Yahweh will rescue you. There he will rescue you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	4	10	nv5c	figs-metonymy		0	the hand of your enemies	Here, the word **hand** could mean:  (1) it could be a metonym for the power that the hand exercises, Alternate translation: “the power of your enemies” or (2) it could be a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “your enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MIC	4	11	b5e1			0	General Information:	Jerusalem will defeat her enemies.
MIC	4	11	xj2l	figs-activepassive		0	Let her be defiled	This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Let us defile her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	4	11	l329	figs-synecdoche		0	let our eyes gloat over Zion	The eye is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “let us gloat over Zion” or “let us enjoy watching the invaders destroy Zion” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MIC	4	12	j472	figs-simile		0	for he has gathered them like bundles of grain prepared for the threshing floor	The writer speaks of Yahweh being ready to destroy the nations as if Yahweh were a farmer who has put his bundles of grain on his threshing floor and is now ready to thresh them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
MIC	4	13	bj1p			0	General Information:	Yahweh presents the imagery of the threshing floor ([Micah 4:12](../04/12.md)).
MIC	4	13	mm6h	figs-you		0	Arise and thresh, daughter of Zion … your horn … your hooves … You will crush	All instances of “your” and “you,” as well as the commands, refer to the “daughter of Zion” and so are singular and feminine. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	4	13	m3uk	figs-metaphor		0	Arise and thresh, daughter of Zion, for I will make your horn to be iron, and I will make your hooves to be bronze	Yahweh speaks of the people of Zion as if they were strong oxen about to thresh wheat and their enemies were the wheat. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
MIC	4	13	tq8x	figs-metaphor		0	I will make your horn to be iron, and I will make your hooves to be bronze	If your reader is not familiar with oxen or iron or bronze, you could remove the metaphor. Alternate translation: “for I will make you able to defeat and destroy every enemy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
MIC	4	13	igd2			0	their unjust wealth	Alternate translation: “the wealth they got by acting unjustly” or “the things they stole from other people”
MIC	4	13	c3rt	figs-abstractnouns		0	their wealth	If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **wealth**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “the things that they own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MIC	5	intro	y1t7			0		# Micah 5 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Messiah<br><br>This chapter contains a prophecy explaining that the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem. This meaning is made clear in the New Testament. (See: [Micah 5:2](../../mic/05/02.md), [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Change in Personal Pronouns<br><br>Extra care must be taken in translating pronouns in this chapter. Sometimes “I” is a reference to the author and other times it is a reference to Yahweh. There is also a noticable shift where the author stops speaking about the people as “you” and begins speaking about them as “we” or “us.”
MIC	5	1	f536	figs-metaphor		0	daughter of soldiers	The people of a city are spoken of as if they were a woman. The soldiers are attacking the city. Alternate translation: “people of the city, whom soldiers are attacking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	5	1	yp7t	figs-metonymy		0	With a rod they strike the judge of Israel on the cheek	The rod is a metonym for a greater man punishing a lesser man with a rod. To strike a man on the cheek was to insult him more than to harm him. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will punish the judge of Israel by having the invaders insult the judge of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	5	1	hz1y	figs-irony		0	the judge of Israel	This irony describes the king as having lost so much of his power and authority that he is really only a judge. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
MIC	5	2	e2u4	figs-apostrophe		0	But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah	Yahweh speaks to the people of Judah, and especially to the people of Bethlehem, as if he were speaking to the town of Bethlehem itself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
MIC	5	2	kc5p	translate-names		0	Ephrathah	This is either the name of the area in which Bethlehem was situated or it is just another name for Bethlehem or it distinguishes this Bethlehem from another. Bethlehem is about six miles south of Jerusalem. It was the hometown of King David. Translators may add this footnote: “The name ‘Ephrathah’ means ‘to be fruitful.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
MIC	5	2	q7k4			0	even though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you one will come	Alternate translation: “even though other clans in Judah have more people in them, it is one of your people who will come”
MIC	5	2	ha3j			0	will come to me	Here “me” refers to Yahweh.
MIC	5	2	rws4	figs-doublet		0	whose beginning is from ancient times, from everlasting	This refers to the ruler descending from the ancient family of King David. The phrases “from ancient times” and “from everlasting” mean basically the same thing and emphasize how old this family line is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
MIC	5	3	zg3h			0	Therefore	Alternate translation: “Because what I have just said is true” or “Because this ruler will come later”
MIC	5	3	xd41			0	will give them up	will abandon the people of Israel
MIC	5	3	nu1x			0	until the time when she who is in labor bears a child	This refers to the time when the ruler is born, a limited time.
MIC	5	3	du1l			0	the rest of his brothers	“the rest of the ruler’s fellow Israelites,” who are in exile
MIC	5	4	w1e9			0	General Information:	These verses continue describing the ruler from Bethlehem.
MIC	5	4	miw4	figs-metaphor		0	He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of Yahweh	A shepherd, who feeds and protects his sheep, is a metaphor for the ruler, who will provide for and protect the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will give him the strength to lead his people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	5	4	apx2	figs-metonymy		0	in the majesty of the name of Yahweh his God	The person’s name is a metonym for person’s authority. Alternate translation: “and people will honor him because Yahweh his God has given him the authority to rule” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	5	4	kkz1			0	They will remain	the people of Israel will remain
MIC	5	4	yry5			0	remain	Alternate translation: “live in safety”
MIC	5	4	jkd7			0	he will be great to the ends of the earth	All people from every nation will give honor to Israel’s ruler.
MIC	5	5	m8sd	figs-metaphor		0	seven shepherds and eight leaders over men	Here “shepherds” is a metonym for “rulers,” another way of saying “leaders over men.” The phrase “seven … and eight” is an idiom for “more than enough.” Alternate translation: “enough, even more than enough, rulers” or “more than enough shepherds and leaders over men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MIC	5	6	t2fh	figs-metaphor		0	They will shepherd the land of Assyria with the sword, and the land of Nimrod in its entrances	The sword is a metonym for killing in war. Here the Israelites ruling over the Assyrians is spoken of ironically as if they were killing sheep instead of herding them. The land of Assyria is a metonym for the people who live there. The entrances to cities were where official business took place. Alternate translation: “They will make war against the people of Assyria, and they will rule the cities of the land of Nimrod” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	5	6	upk5	figs-ellipsis		0	and the land of Nimrod	The words “they will shepherd” are understood from the beginning of the sentence. They can be repeated. Alternate translation: “and they will shepherd the land of Nimrod” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
MIC	5	6	p1ya	translate-names		0	land of Nimrod	This is another name for the land of Assyria. Nimrod was a hunter and early ruler. Translators may add this footnote: “The name ‘Nimrod’ means ‘rebellion.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
MIC	5	6	cj7q			0	He will rescue	The ruler will rescue
MIC	5	7	rd4s	figs-simile		0	like dew from Yahweh, like showers on the grass	Dew and rain showers refresh the land and cause things to grow. The Israelites will cause the people among whom they live to live will. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
MIC	5	7	qz8i			0	grass, that do not wait for a man, and they do not wait for the children	“grass. It is not for a man that they wait, nor is it for the children.” It is Yahweh alone who causes dew and rain showers.
MIC	5	8	ty4b			0	General Information:	Yahweh promises that the Israelites who are alive after Yahweh has punished his people with war will completely defeat and rule over their enemies.
MIC	5	8	pc96			0	remnant of Jacob	descendants of Jacob who survive the war
MIC	5	8	bv7a	figs-doublet		0	among the nations, among many peoples	These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the “remnant of Jacob” will live in many different nations. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
MIC	5	8	rch5	figs-simile		0	like a lion among the animals of the forest, like a young lion among the flocks of sheep	Lions are able to kill and eat any wild animal of the forest, and they easily kill sheep. Alternate translation: “like the fiercest of wild animals, like a wild animal that kills helpless livestock” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
MIC	5	8	fsg4			0	When he goes through them	when the young lion goes through the flocks of sheep
MIC	5	8	l3ju			0	will trample over them and tear	Alternate translation: “will jump on them so they fall down, and then he will tear”
MIC	5	9	qjw5	figs-you		0	Your hand … your enemies	The writer is speaking to Yahweh, so both instances of “your” are masculine singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	5	9	g937	figs-metonymy		0	Your hand will be lifted against your enemies	The hand is a metonym for the power that the hand exercises or a synecdoche for the whole person. To lift the hand is to exercise power. Alternate translation: “You will completely defeat your enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MIC	5	9	a5bh	figs-synecdoche		0	it will destroy them	The hand is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “you will destroy them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MIC	5	10	yvv1	figs-explicit		0	I will destroy your horses from among you and will demolish your chariots	The people of Israel used horses and chariots only in battle, and they may have traded for them with the godless nations around them. God did not want the people to trust in their weapons of war to protect them more than they trusted in him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MIC	5	10	t7yg	figs-you		0	your horses … among you … your chariots	Yahweh is speaking to the people of Israel as if they were one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	5	11	p7xv	figs-you		0	your land … your strongholds	Yahweh is speaking to the people of Israel as if they were one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	5	12	w5rn	figs-metonymy		0	the witchcraft in your hand	Being in the “hand” represents the actions that the person does. Alternate translation: “the witchcraft that you do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	5	12	b4vf	figs-you		0	your hand … you will	Yahweh continues to speak to the people of Israel as if they were one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	5	13	udr6	figs-you		0	your carved … your stone … among you. You will … your hands	Yahweh continues to speak to the people of Israel as if they were one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	5	13	s47c	figs-abstractnouns		0	the workmanship of your hands	If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **workmanship**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “make.” Alternate translation: “what your hands have made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MIC	5	14	dd8m	figs-you		0	your Asherah … among you … your cities	Yahweh continues to speak to the people of Israel as if they were one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	5	14	p6df	figs-metaphor		0	will uproot your Asherah poles	Yahweh speaks of Asherah poles as if they were trees that he would pull out of the ground. Alternate translation: “will pull your Asherah poles out of the ground” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	6	intro	k235			0		# Micah 6 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter is written as a court case or lawsuit by Yahweh against His people. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Names in Lawsuit<br><br>Moses, Aaron and Miriam are mentioned as witnesses for Yahweh and against Israel.<br>Ahab and Omri are mentioned as kings who were evil and did not follow Yahweh. Obedience to the law of Moses is contrasted with disobedience to the law. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/testimony]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/evil]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])
MIC	6	1	wer4	figs-apostrophe		0	Now listen	Micah speaks to the people of Israel as if he were speaking to mountains that can hear him, so both instances of “listen” are plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
MIC	6	1	sz7c	figs-you		0	Arise … state	Micah speaks to the people of Israel as if they were one man, so the commands and the word “your” are singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	6	1	zxw4	figs-personification		0	Arise and state your case before the mountains; let the hills hear your voice	Yahweh speaks as if he is in court and the mountains and hills are the judges. He commands the people of Israel to tell the judges why they have done what they did. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
MIC	6	2	vyc6	figs-apostrophe		0	Listen to Yahweh’s lawsuit	Micah speaks to the people of Israel as if he were speaking to mountains that can hear him, so both instances of “listen” are plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
MIC	6	2	pbw6	figs-personification		0	you mountains … you enduring foundations of the earth	Micah is speaking to these things as if they are humans. Micah is using the mountains, hills, and foundations of the earth as an eternal witness against his people’s idolatry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
MIC	6	3	smg8	figs-rquestion		0	My people, what have I done to you? How have I wearied you? Testify against me!	God uses questions to emphasize that he is a good God, and he has done nothing to cause the people to stop worshiping him. Alternate translation: “My people, I have been good to you. I have done nothing to make you tired of me. If you think I have, testify against me, now.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	6	3	h6ec	figs-you		0	to you … wearied you? Testify	Yahweh speaks to the people as if they were one man, so all instances of “you” and all the commands are masculine singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	6	4	y7re	figs-you		0	brought you … rescued you … Miriam to you	Yahweh speaks to the people as if they were one man, so all instances of “you” and all the commands are masculine singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	6	4	s8wt	figs-metaphor		0	house of bondage	A house is a metaphor for a place in which one lives for a long time. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **bondage**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “to be slaves.” Alternate translation: “the place where you were slaves for a long time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	6	5	q1ew	figs-you		0	remember … you went … you may know	Yahweh speaks to the people as if they were one man, so all instances of “you” and all the commands are masculine singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	6	5	ddx5			0	what Balak … devised	“the plans Balak … made to harm you
MIC	6	5	q2uj	figs-explicit		0	how Balaam … answered him	This could mean: (1) Balaam obeyed Balak by coming when Balak called him, Alternate translation: “how Balaam … did what Balak asked him to do” or (2) Balaam explained to Balak why Balaam had blessed the Israelites instead of cursing them as Balak had commanded. Alternate translation: “what Balaam told Balak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MIC	6	5	mpf3	translate-names		0	Beor	This is the name of Balaam’s father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
MIC	6	5	rmf6			0	Shittim	This is the name of a place in Moab.
MIC	6	5	w4n8	figs-123person		0	so you may know the righteous acts of Yahweh	Yahweh refers to himself by his own name. Alternate translation: “so that you may remember the righteous things that I, Yahweh, have done for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
MIC	6	6	n2hi	figs-rquestion		0	What should I bring to Yahweh … God? Should I come … old?	Micah speaks as if he were a person who truly wanted to know what God expects him to do. This could mean: (1) he asks questions and then in verse 8 answers the questions he has asked or (2) he is using questions to teach the people. Alternate translation: “I know that I do no need to bring to Yahweh … God, or come … old” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	6	7	yc7f	figs-rquestion		0	Will Yahweh be pleased … oil? Should I give … sin?	Micah continues to speaks as if he were a person who truly wanted to know what God expects him to do. This could mean: (1) he asks questions and then in verse 8 answers the questions he has asked or (2) he is using questions to teach the people. Alternate translation: “I know that Yahweh will not be pleased … oil or if I give … sin.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	6	7	mxx1	figs-rquestion		0	thousands of rams … ten thousand rivers of oil	“rams in groups of 1,000…10,000 rivers of oil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
MIC	6	8	y8pq			0	He has told you	Alternate translation: “Yahweh has told you”
MIC	6	8	xd8t			0	good, and what Yahweh requires from you: Act … God	Many versions read, “good. And what does Yahweh require from you? He wants you to act … God.” or “good. And what does Yahweh require from you but to act … God?”
MIC	6	8	qii1	figs-abstractnouns		0	love kindness	If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **kindness**, you can express the same idea with an adjective such as “kind.” Alternate translation: “love being kind to people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MIC	6	9	jf56	figs-metonymy		0	even now wisdom acknowledges your name	Wisdom is spoken of as a person and is a metonym for the wise person. The word “name” here is a metonym for the person himself, what people think of him, and his authority. Alternate translation: “and the wise person will fear you” or “and the wise person will acknowledge that you are good and will obey you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
MIC	6	9	mll1	figs-metaphor		0	Pay attention to the rod, and to the one who has put it in place	Here “rod” refers to the enemy army with which Yahweh, who “has put it in place,” will discipline his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	6	10	va73	figs-metonymy		0	There is wealth in the houses of the wicked that is dishonest	Dishonest wealth is a metonym for wealth that people have gained by acting dishonestly. The words “the wicked” refer to wicked people. Houses are a synecdoche for everything a person possesses. Alternate translation: “Wicked people have acted dishonestly to gain wealth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MIC	6	10	s6dk			0	false measures	incorrect weights that people use with scales to increase their wealth by deceiving those with whom they trade
MIC	6	11	j82a	figs-rquestion		0	Should I consider a person to be innocent … weights?	If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I certainly will not consider a person innocent … weights.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	6	11	h4pk			0	deceptive weights	weights with which sellers deceive buyers
MIC	6	12	ig8k	figs-metaphor		0	The rich men are full of violence	Rich men are spoken of as if they were containers, and people treating each other violently is spoken of as if it were a liquid that could be put into a container. Alternate translation: “The rich men act violently toward everyone” or “The rich men act violently all the time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	6	12	j5fx	figs-synecdoche		0	their tongue in their mouth is deceitful	The tongue is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “Everything they say is a lie” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MIC	6	13	c1sc	figs-metaphor		0	I will strike you with a terrible blow	Yahweh striking his people with blows is a metaphor for him punishing them. Alternate translation: “I have punished you severely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	6	14	f2m4	figs-metaphor		0	your emptiness will remain inside you	A person or thing being hungry is spoken of as if it were something that could be put in a container, and the people are spoken of as if they were containers. Alternate translation: “You will be hungry, and you will not be able to eat enough to satisfy yourself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	6	16	ke6t	figs-activepassive		0	The regulations made by Omri have been kept, and all the deeds of the house of Ahab	This can be translated in active form, and you may need to supply the words that the ellipsis omitted. Alternate translation: “You have done what Omri commanded, and you have done the same things the house of Ahab did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	6	16	tc63	translate-names		0	Omri … Ahab	Both of these men were kings over the northern kingdom of Israel. God considered both of them to be very wicked. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
MIC	6	16	n2j5			0	house of Ahab	The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Ahab”
MIC	6	16	em7h	figs-metaphor		0	You walk by their advice	Walking on a path is a metaphor for how a person lives his life. Alternate translation: “You do what Omri and Ahab told the people to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	6	16	s6wy	figs-apostrophe		0	I will make you, city, a ruin, and you inhabitants an object of hissing	Micah speaks to the people of the city, who can hear him, as if he were speaking to the city itself, which cannot hear him. You may need to make explicit the words that the ellipsis omits. Alternate translation: “I will make your city a ruin, and I will make you inhabitants an object of hissing” or “I will make you, city, a ruin, and I will cause everyone who sees you, inhabitants of the city, to hiss at you” or “I will make the city a ruin, and I will make people hiss at the inhabitants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
MIC	6	16	q68q			0	you will bear the reproach of my people	Alternate translation: “you will suffer because my people will reproach you”
MIC	7	intro	kf61			0		# Micah 7 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Last days<br><br>This chapter looks forward to the hope of the coming savior for the faithful remnant. This is the future restoration of Israel when true peace will come. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/savior]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/remnant]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]])<br><br>### Prophet<br><br>The prophet was able to speak to God on behalf of the people. Often in this chapter, the prophet speaks in Israel’s place and offers repentance to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])
MIC	7	1	wf5y	figs-metaphor		0	I have become like the gathering of summer fruit, and like the grapes that have been gleaned	Micah speaks of looking for faithful people but being unable to find any as if he were a person looking for food after the harvesters have taken it all. The idea of a person wanting to gather fruit can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “I have become like someone looking for fruit after the gathering of summer fruit, like a gleaner after the grapes have been gleaned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MIC	7	1	jz29	figs-metaphor		0	no grape cluster … no ripe early fig	Micah speaks of faithful, upright people as if they were fruit that is good to eat. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	2	x5ss	figs-hyperbole		0	The faithful ones have disappeared … land; there is no upright person … They all lie in wait … blood; each one hunts	These are exaggerations. Alternate translation: “I feel as though faithful people have disappeared … land and there is no upright person … I feel as though they all lie in wait … blood, and each one hunts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
MIC	7	2	qea8	figs-metaphor		0	to shed blood	Blood is a metaphor for the death of innocent people. Alternate translation: “to kill innocent people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	3	m27f	figs-synecdoche		0	Their hands are very good	The hand is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “The people are very good” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MIC	7	4	nz3f	figs-simile		0	The best of them is like a brier, the most upright is worse than a thorn hedge	Briers and thorns are good for nothing and harm those who touch them. The Israelite rulers and judges did nothing good and harmed people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
MIC	7	4	kin3			0	the most upright	Alternate translation: “those of them who try hardest to do what is good”
MIC	7	4	qfc3	figs-activepassive		0	It is the day foretold by your watchmen, the day of your punishment	Micah speaks to the people of Israel, so both instances of “your” are plural. The word “watchmen” is a metaphor for prophets. Alternate translation: “Their prophets have told them that Yahweh would punish them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	4	i385	figs-abstractnouns		0	Now is the time of their confusion	If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **confusion**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “Now is when they do not understand what is happening” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MIC	7	5	cvb4			0	Do not trust any neighbor	Micah continues to show that there is no longer anyone good, honest, and loyal to God among God’s people. Here he emphasizes that they cannot even trust friends or family.
MIC	7	6	y6bb			0	people of his own house	Micah continues to show that there is no longer anyone good, honest, and loyal to God among God’s people. Here he emphasizes that they cannot even trust friends or family.
MIC	7	6	by7f	figs-ellipsis		0	a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law	The words “rises up” are understood from the previous phrase. They can be repeated here. Alternate translation: “a daughter-in-law rises up against her mother-in-law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
MIC	7	6	z99g	figs-metonymy		0	his own house	The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. Alternate translation: “his own family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	7	7	pvd9	figs-metaphor		0	General Information:	In verse 8 Micah begins speaking as if he were one woman speaking to her enemy, another woman. This is perhaps the daughter of Zion ([Micah 1:13](../01/13.md)), who represents the people of Israel, speaking to the “daughter of soldiers” ([Micah 5:1](../05/01.md)), who represents the nations which attacked Israel. All commands and instances of “you” are feminine singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	7	7	z1eq			0	But as for me	Here “me” refers to Micah.
MIC	7	7	p8kj	figs-abstractnouns		0	I will wait for the God of my salvation	If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **salvation**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “I will wait for the God who saves me” or “I will wait for God, who saves me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MIC	7	7	wd6x	figs-metonymy		0	will hear me	The word “hear” represents hearing and acting. Alternate translation: “will act to help me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
MIC	7	8	yb44	figs-metaphor		0	fall … rise	These words are metaphors for suffering from disaster and then recovering. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	8	ln69	figs-metaphor		0	sit in darkness	These words are a metaphor for suffering from disaster. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	9	d2c6	figs-metaphor		0	I will bear his rage	Rage is spoken of as if it were a solid object that Yahweh was forcing Micah to carry. Alternate translation: “I will suffer because he is angry with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	9	v4zl			0	until he pleads my cause, and executes judgment for me	Yahweh will punish the people of the other nations who harmed the people of Israel.
MIC	7	9	sr4x	figs-metaphor		0	he pleads my cause	Yahweh is spoken of as if he were defending Micah in court. Alternate translation: “he defends me against those who harm me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	9	sc18			0	executes judgment for me	Alternate translation: “brings about justice for me”
MIC	7	9	p8yt	figs-metaphor		0	He will bring me to the light	Bringing Micah from darkness ([Micah 7:8](../07/08.md)) to light is a metaphor for ending the suffering from disaster and enabling him to live well. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	9	t4wh			0	rescue me in his justice	Alternate translation: “bring justice to me and rescue me”
MIC	7	10	wv5q			0	my enemy … the one who said … your God … My eyes	The words “enemy,” “one,” “your,” and “my” here refer to the women in the poem and so are feminine singular.
MIC	7	10	ize3	figs-rquestion		0	Where is Yahweh your God?	The enemy uses a question to mock the people of Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Yahweh your God cannot help you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	7	10	fx2c	figs-synecdoche		0	My eyes	This phrase here refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: “I” or “We” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
MIC	7	10	d12h	figs-activepassive		0	she will be trampled down	If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “her enemies will trample her down” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	7	10	j5qh	figs-simile		0	like the mud in the streets	People who walk on mud without thinking they are doing anything bad are compared with those who will destroy Israel’s enemies without thinking they are doing anything evil. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
MIC	7	11	x4rg	figs-you		0	General Information:	Micah speaks to the people of Israel as if he were speaking to one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	7	11	y6xz			0	A day to build your walls will come	Here “walls” refers to the walls around their cities, which provided safety and security from their enemies.
MIC	7	11	ue5m	figs-activepassive		0	the boundaries will be extended very far	This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will greatly extend the boundaries of your land” or “Yahweh will greatly increase the size of your kingdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
MIC	7	12	hs2u	figs-explicit		0	the River	You may need to make explicit the name of river. Alternate translation: “the Euphrates River” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MIC	7	12	bd5t	figs-explicit		0	from sea to sea	You may need to make explicit the names of the seas. “from the Mediterranean Sea in the west to the Dead Sea in the east” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MIC	7	12	y16y	figs-idiom		0	from mountain to mountain	“from one mountain to another.” Micah does not speak of any particular mountain. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MIC	7	13	av6g			0	the land will be desolate	Alternate translation: “the land will be empty” or “no one will live in the land”
MIC	7	13	n1e8	figs-metaphor		0	because of the fruit of their actions	Fruit is a metaphor for the results of an earlier action. Alternate translation: “because of the results of what they have done” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	14	jsh4	figs-metaphor		0	Shepherd your people with your rod, the flock of your inheritance	Micah is praying to Yahweh, asking him to protect his people of Israel again. Here “rod” refers to God’s leadership and guidance, as a shepherd uses a stick to guide and protect his sheep. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	14	cu5w	figs-metaphor		0	They live alone in a thicket, in the midst of a pastureland	Micah speaks of his people as if they were wild animals hiding in bushes instead of livestock grazing in fields with much grass to eat. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	14	l8a3			0	a thicket	a place where many small woody plants grow
MIC	7	14	brz2			0	Bashan and Gilead	These regions are known as rich land for growing food.
MIC	7	14	whi8	figs-explicit		0	as in the old days	Bashan and Gilead had been part of Israel long ago, when David was king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
MIC	7	15	e3z5			0	As in the days … them wonders	Yahweh speaks to the people.
MIC	7	16	mhq2	figs-metaphor		0	The nations	The word “nations” is a metonym for the people who live in many nations. Alternate translation: “The people of the nations nearby” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	16	mzy2	translate-symaction		0	They will put their hands on their mouths	They do this to show that they are ashamed of what they have done. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
MIC	7	16	n9vh	figs-idiom		0	their ears will be deaf	This is an idiom. Nothing anyone says will have any effect on them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
MIC	7	17	e21s	figs-hyperbole		0	They will lick the dust like a snake	Snakes slither on the ground where dust gets on them, and here the people are being compared to snakes, though it is probably an exaggeration that they will lick the dust. This could mean: (1) will literally lie on the ground in shame or (2) will be so ashamed and humbled that it will be as if they were lying on the ground. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
MIC	7	17	zg31	figs-metaphor		0	their dens	The people are spoken of as if they were animals, because animals live in “dens.” Alternate translation: “their homes” or “their hiding places” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	18	g3i6	figs-rquestion		0	Who is a God like you—who takes … inheritance?	Micah is emphasizing that there is no God like Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I know that there is no God like you, who takes … inheritance.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
MIC	7	18	kr7v			0	the remnant of his inheritance	Alternate translation: “those of his chosen people who have survived his punishment”
MIC	7	18	a8d2	figs-123person		0	you … of the remnant of his inheritance? He does not keep his anger forever, because he delights in his covenant faithfulness.	Here the words “his” and “he” can be stated in second person. Alternate translation: “you … of the remnant of your inheritance, who do not keep your anger forever, because you delight in your covenant faithfulness?” or “you … of the remnant of your inheritance? You do not keep your anger forever, because you delights in your covenant faithfulness.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
MIC	7	18	f1lp	figs-abstractnouns		0	he delights in his covenant faithfulness	If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **faithfulness**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “faithful.” Alternate translation: “he delights in being faithful to his covenant” or “he delights in being faithful to his people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
MIC	7	18	ups5			0	passes over	ignores
MIC	7	18	mcd3			0	does not keep his anger	Alternate translation: “does not stay angry”
MIC	7	19	i7z3	figs-you		0	You will	Here “you” refers to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
MIC	7	19	i1u2	figs-exclusive		0	on us	Here “us” refers to Micah and the people, but not to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
MIC	7	19	rqi9	figs-metaphor		0	you will trample our iniquities under your feet. You will throw all our sins into the depths of the sea	Iniquity and sin are spoken of as if they were solid objects. Alternate translation: “You will treat our iniquities and sins as if they were not important” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
MIC	7	20	q32m	figs-metonymy		0	You will give truth to Jacob and covenant faithfulness to Abraham	Here the names of Jacob and Abraham are metonyms for their descendants, the people of Israel to whom Micah was speaking. The abstract nouns “truth” and “faithfulness” can be stated as “trustworthy” and “faithful.” Alternate translation: “You will show the descendants of Jacob and Abraham that your are trustworthy and faithful to your covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])