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2MICfrontintrohp4d0# Introduction to Micah<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 (1:116)<br>1. Those who take advantage of others are guilty (2:1-3:12)<br>- Rich people who oppress poor people (2:111)<br>- Promise to be delivered and restored (2:1213)<br>- Rulers, priests, and prophets condemned (3:112)<br>1. Yahwehs victory for all Israel (4:1-5:15)<br>- Yahweh will rule over all the nations (4:110)<br>- Israel will be destroyed, then will be victorious over its enemies (4:1113)<br>- Messiah will shepherd his flock and devastate the nations who fought against him (5:16)<br>- Messiah will destroy everything that harmed his people (5:715)<br>1. Yahwehs case against Israel (6:1-16)<br>- Yahweh reminds Israel when he led them out of slavery in Egypt (6:15)<br>- Israel punished; true repentance (6:616)<br>1. Israel miserable and Israel restored (7:1-20)<br>- Israel broken and miserable (7:17)<br>- Israel will rise again (7:813)<br>- Yahweh restores and gives grace (7:1420)<br><br>### What is the Book of Micah about?<br><br>This book contains many of Micahs 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 Micahs 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.
3MIC1introe47z0# Micah 1 General Notes<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]])
4MIC11bv15figs-parallelism0General Information:God speaks through Micah to the people of Israel using poetry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
5MIC11c3k1figs-idiom0the word of Yahweh that cameThis 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]])
6MIC11ar460YahwehThis 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.
7MIC11c9rjtranslate-names0the MorashtiteThis means he is from Moresheth which is a town in Judah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
8MIC11ts920in the days of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah“when Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah”
9MIC11d1fd0which he saw“which he heard in a vision”
10MIC12ya6p0General Information:Micah 1:2-7 is about Gods judgment on Samaria.
11MIC12x9l2figs-apostrophe0Listen, all you peoples. Listen, earth, and all that is in youThis begins Micahs 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]])
12MIC13i37kfigs-metaphor0he will come down and tread on the high places of the earthMicah 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]])
13MIC13gq790he will … tread“he will … march”
14MIC13c6u60the high places of the earth“the high mountains”
15MIC14dgb2figs-metaphor0The mountains will melt under him; the valleys will break apart, like wax before fire, like waters that are poured down a steep placeMicah 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]])
16MIC15rgh7figs-metonymy0because of the sins of the house of IsraelThe 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]])
17MIC15a7g10All this is“The Lord will come and judge”
18MIC15efa8figs-metonymy0What is Jacobs 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]])
19MIC15t7btfigs-metonymy0Is 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. This can be translated 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]])
20MIC15rj3vfigs-synecdoche0What is Judahs 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]])
21MIC15rjt6figs-metonymy0Is 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. This question can be translated 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]])
22MIC16m3rh0I will makeHere “I” refers to Yahweh.
23MIC16wu3lfigs-metaphor0Samaria … her stones … her foundationsYahweh 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]])
24MIC16mrm30I will pour her stonesHere “her” refers to the city of Samaria.
25MIC17eu6lfigs-metaphor0her carved figures … her gifts that she received … her idolsYahweh 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]])
26MIC17n921figs-activepassive0All her carved figures will be broken to piecesThis 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]])
27MIC17a2effigs-activepassive0all her gifts … will be burned with fireThis 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]])
28MIC17nci40she received“people gave her”
29MIC17syr2figs-metaphor0Since she gathered her gifts from the wages of prostitutes, they will become the wages of prostitutes againYahweh 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]])
30MIC18y14v0General Information:Micah 1:8-16 is about Gods judgment on Judah.
31MIC18agj70I will lamentHere “I” refers to Micah.
32MIC18evd30I will lament and wail“Lament” refers to the inner feeling of sadness, and “wail” refers to the activity of making a loud, sad sound.
33MIC18sl7i0I will go barefoot and nakedThis 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”
34MIC18ly5n0nakedprobably wearing only a loincloth
35MIC18y5zcfigs-simile0like the jackals … like owlsJackals and owls live in wastelands, and their loud cries sound like people wailing or weeping. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
36MIC19v3ycfigs-metaphor0For her wound is incurableHere “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]])
37MIC19j8a2figs-metaphor0for it has come to JudahMicah 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]])
38MIC110ty72translate-names0Beth LeaphrahYou may want to make a footnote saying, “The name of this city means house of dust.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
39MIC110zki3translate-symaction0I roll myself in the dustPeople under Gods 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]])
40MIC111fc7v0General 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.
41MIC111n7tttranslate-names0ShaphirThe name of this city sounds like one meaning “beautiful.” It contrasts with “nakedness and shame.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
42MIC111aq1ufigs-idiom0in nakedness and shameThis idiom makes explicit that the people will be totally naked. Alternate translation: “totally naked and ashamed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
43MIC111r6st0ZaananThe name of this city means “go out.” They are too afraid to go out and help.
44MIC111m77i0Beth EzelThe name of this city means “house of taking away.”
45MIC111ad97figs-activepassive0for their protection is taken awayThis 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]])
46MIC112c45f0MarothThe name of this city means “bitterness.”
47MIC112wuv4figs-abstractnouns0disaster has come down from YahwehThe abstract noun “disaster” is spoken of here as a solid object rolling down a hill. It can be translated as a verb. 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]])
48MIC113qn9htranslate-names0LachishThe 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]])
49MIC113t76ufigs-metonymy0the daughter of ZionThe 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]])
50MIC113b2dcfigs-activepassive0for the transgressions of Israel were found in youThis 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]])
51MIC114yl23translate-names0Moresheth GathYou 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]])
52MIC114k4w10AkzibYou may want to add a footnote saying “The name of this town sounds almost the same as the Hebrew expression for deceitful thing.’”
53MIC115xs9b0I will again bringHere “I” refers to Yahweh.
54MIC115vu14translate-names0MareshahYou 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]])
55MIC115wh3utranslate-names0AdullamThis is the name of a royal city in Philistia. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
56MIC116i5ubtranslate-symaction0Shave your head and cut off your hairIsraelites 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]])
57MIC116nb8x0eaglesThis word can also be translated “vultures.”
58MIC2introjy290# Micah 2 General Notes<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>### Context<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 Micahs 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]])
59MIC21c11k0General Information:Micah speaks against the leaders in Israel who are taking advantage of the poor and not following Gods commands.
60MIC22r4qb0They oppress a man“They oppress any man they choose to oppress.” This is a generalization. Micah is not speaking of one individual man here.
61MIC23r7sk0Look“Listen carefully” or “Pay attention”
62MIC23e8pn0disasterSee how you translated this in [Micah 1:12](../01/12.md).
63MIC23zi710this clanThis “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.
64MIC23k4i7figs-metaphor0from which you will not remove your necksYahweh 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]])
65MIC24t7xt0sing a song about you“sing a song to make fun of you”
66MIC24ymz1figs-irony0lament 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]])
67MIC24frk2figs-irony0We Israelites … to traitorsThis 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]])
68MIC24hz57figs-rquestion0How 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. This question can be translated 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]])
69MIC25rnf90Therefore, you rich people will have no descendants to divide up the territory by lot in the assembly of YahwehThis 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.
70MIC26eli90General Information:Micah speaks to false prophets, as well as to the rich who have abused their power.
71MIC26a888figs-you0Do not prophesyThe speakers are speaking to Micah and to others, so this is plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
72MIC26iph50they say“the people of Israel say”
73MIC26nl1s0They must not prophesy“The prophets must not prophesy”
74MIC26dqe6figs-metaphor0reproaches must not comeReproach 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]])
75MIC27d2pmfigs-rquestion0Should it really be said…“Is the Spirit … his deeds?”Micah is scolding the Israelites by using this question. This can be translated 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]])
76MIC27cd55figs-metonymy0house of JacobThe word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to Jacobs descendants. Alternate translation: “descendants of Jacob” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
77MIC27hr6wfigs-rquestion0said…“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]])
78MIC27dhy6figs-rquestion0Do not my words do good to anyone who walks uprightly?Micah uses a question to teach the people. It can bee translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “My message does good to those who walk uprightly.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
79MIC28nby20my peopleHere, **my people** could mean: (1) Micahs people or (2) Yahwehs people.
80MIC28h252figs-metaphor0You strip the robe, the garment, from those who pass by unsuspectinglyThis 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]])
81MIC29h3sh0General Information:Yahweh continues speaking to the wicked rich people in Israel.
82MIC29vit80you take my blessing from their young children foreverThis 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 childrens fathers, farmers who worked hard to establish the nation.
83MIC29sez80my blessingMicah speaks as if he were Yahweh.
84MIC210x485figs-activepassive0it is destroyed with complete destructionThis can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I will completely destroy it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
85MIC211fn9ufigs-you0comes to you … will prophesy to youMicah is speaking to the people of Judah, so both instances of “you” are plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
86MIC211mwp4figs-you0he would be consideredThis 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]])
87MIC212xls80General Information:Yahweh continues speaking. At the end of this chapter, Yahweh shows himself to be a shepherd who protects his people. He may especially be addressing those in Jerusalem who have returned from Assyria.
88MIC212l2iefigs-you0all of you, JacobMicah is speaking to some of the descendants of Jacob, so the word “you” is plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
89MIC213wz2q0Someone 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.
90MIC3introwy5w0# Micah 3 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br>### Justice<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>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]])
91MIC31lg8w0General Information:Chapter 3 focuses on the corrupt leaders in Israel.
92MIC31bi750I saidHere “I” refers to Micah.
93MIC31cd9lfigs-rquestion0Is it not right for you to understand justice?Micah is scolding the leaders. This rhetorical question can be translated 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]])
94MIC32e3yk0Connecting Statement:Micah begins to compare the leaders of Israel to butchers.
95MIC32ep25figs-nominaladj0hate good and love evilThese 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]])
96MIC32y42gfigs-metaphor0you who tear off their skin, their flesh from their bonesA 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]])
97MIC33vja60Connecting Statement:Micah finishes comparing the leaders of Israel to butchers.
98MIC33vs7qfigs-metaphor0just like meat in a cauldronA 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]])
99MIC34x8430General Information:Micah continues speaking.
100MIC34pu9j0cry out to Yahweh“shout to Yahweh for help”
101MIC34uuv70he will not answer you“he will not do what you ask him to do”
102MIC34ru8jfigs-metaphor0He will hide his face from youHiding 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]])
103MIC35q1tf0General Information:Micah continues to speak judgment against false prophets.
104MIC35wvm2figs-metaphor0who lead my people astrayWalking 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]])
105MIC35uud3figs-metaphor0if 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]])
106MIC35jn8zfigs-metaphor0if he puts nothing in their mouths, they dedicate themselves to wage war on himMicah 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]])
107MIC36v4xhfigs-metaphor0it will be night for you … the day will be dark on themDarkness is a metaphor for Yahweh not speaking to the prophets. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
108MIC36r42r0no vision for you“you will no longer see visions”
109MIC37xh15figs-activepassive0The seers will be put to shame, and the diviners will be confusedThis 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]])
110MIC37pe2mfigs-metonymy0All of them will cover their lipsHere “lips” represents speaking. Alternate translation: “They shall no longer speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
111MIC37s6nk0there is no answer from me“I will be silent”
112MIC38ku3z0But as for meHere “me” refers to Micah, a true prophet, setting himself apart from the false prophets.
113MIC38qw2hfigs-metaphor0I am full of power by the Spirit of Yahweh, and am full of justice and mightMicah 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]])
114MIC38h3w3figs-metonymy0to declare to Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sinHere “Jacob” and “Israel” are metonyms for Jacobs 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 Jacobs descendants that they have broken Yahwehs 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]])
115MIC39ral1figs-metonymy0house of JacobThe word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to Jacobs descendants. Alternate translation: “descendants of Jacob” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
116MIC39rm8tfigs-metonymy0the house of IsraelThe word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. In this case it refers to Israels descendants, who had become the nation of Israel. Alternate translation: “descendants of Israel” or “you Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
117MIC39ujn20deteststrongly dislike
118MIC310ca1vfigs-metaphor0You 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]])
119MIC311yn4tfigs-rquestion0Is not Yahweh with us?The leaders strongly believe that Yahweh is with them. This can be translated 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]])
120MIC311aeh50evilSee how you translated “disaster” in [Micah 1:12](../01/12.md).
121MIC312r9xr0because of youHere “you” refers to the priests, prophets, and leaders ([Micah 3:11](../03/11.md)).
122MIC312aqg2figs-metaphor0Zion 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]])
123MIC312k2is0a plowed field“a field that a farmer has plowed”
124MIC312m86y0a thicketa place where many small woody plants grow
125MIC4intropzv80# Micah 4 General Notes<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>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]])
126MIC41rn5hfigs-metaphor0the mountain … other mountainsYahweh 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]])
127MIC41a15lfigs-activepassive0the mountain of Yahwehs house will be establishedThis 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]])
128MIC41pbd30over the other mountainsMount 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.
129MIC41ttd5figs-activepassive0It will be exalted above the hillsThis 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]])
130MIC41w891figs-metaphor0peoples will stream to itA 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]])
131MIC42gve4figs-metonymy0Many nationsThe 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]])
132MIC42tm7vfigs-you0ComeThis is plural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
133MIC42hju4figs-metaphor0He will teach us his ways, and we will walk in his pathsHere “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]])
134MIC42wix6figs-metaphor0from Zion the law will go out, and the word of Yahweh from JerusalemThe 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]])
135MIC42uuk9figs-ellipsis0and the word of Yahweh from JerusalemThe 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]])
136MIC43b5yy0plowsharesa blade that people use to dig into soil so they can plant seeds
137MIC43l4ud0pruning hooksa metal tool that people use to cut off branches or stems from plants
138MIC43vin50will not lift up swordwill not threaten to start a war
139MIC44sv2r0General Information:Micah continues describing the “last days” when people learn and obey Yahwehs law.
140MIC44h22jfigs-explicit0they will sit every person under his vine and under his fig treeBoth 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]])
141MIC44j4rcfigs-synecdoche0for the mouth of Yahweh of hosts has spokenThe mouth is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “for Yahweh of hosts has spoken” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
142MIC45iek8figs-metaphor0the peoples walk … in the name of their god … we will walk in the name of YahwehWalking on a path is a metaphor for living ones 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]])
143MIC46c9uufigs-synecdoche0the lameThis 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]])
144MIC46ri250gather the outcast“gather those whom I drove out of Jerusalem”
145MIC47b2hefigs-activepassive0the ones driven away into a strong nationThe 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]])
146MIC48c64gfigs-apostrophe0As for you, watchtower for the flock, hill of the daughter of Zion—to you it will come, your former dominionMicah 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 Jerusalems people are most proud of—its former dominion will return” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
147MIC48y9gnfigs-metaphor0watchtower for the flockThe 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]])
148MIC48p2djfigs-metaphor0daughter of Zion … daughter of JerusalemThe 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]])
149MIC48tc2d0hillSome modern versions understand this Hebrew word to mean “fortress” or “stronghold” here.
150MIC48ccs1figs-abstractnouns0to you it will come, your former dominionThe abstract noun “dominion” can be translated as a verb. 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]])
151MIC49g6pxfigs-rquestion0Now, 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. This question can be translated 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]])
152MIC49b1zkfigs-rquestion0Is 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. These questions can be translated 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]])
153MIC410qn9lfigs-simile0Be in pain … like a woman in laborMicah 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]])
154MIC410rci7figs-activepassive0There you will be rescued. There Yahweh will rescue youYahweh 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]])
155MIC410nv5cfigs-metonymy0the hand of your enemiesHere, 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]])
156MIC411b5e10General Information:Jerusalem will defeat her enemies.
157MIC411xj2lfigs-activepassive0Let her be defiledThis can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Let us defile her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
158MIC411l329figs-synecdoche0let our eyes gloat over ZionThe 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]])
159MIC412j472figs-simile0for he has gathered them like bundles of grain prepared for the threshing floorThe 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]])
160MIC413bj1p0General Information:Yahweh presents the imagery of the threshing floor ([Micah 4:12](../04/12.md)).
161MIC413mm6hfigs-you0Arise and thresh, daughter of Zion … your horn … your hooves … You will crushAll 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]])
162MIC413m3ukfigs-metaphor0Arise and thresh, daughter of Zion, for I will make your horn to be iron, and I will make your hooves to be bronzeYahweh 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]])
163MIC413tq8xfigs-metaphor0I will make your horn to be iron, and I will make your hooves to be bronzeIf your reader is not familiar with oxen or iron or bronze, you can 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]])
164MIC413igd20their unjust wealth“the wealth they got by acting unjustly” or “the things they stole from other people”
165MIC413c3rtfigs-abstractnouns0their wealthThe abstract noun “wealth” can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “the things that they own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
166MIC5introy1t70# Micah 5 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Messiah<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>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.”
167MIC51f536figs-metaphor0daughter of soldiersThe 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]])
168MIC51yp7tfigs-metonymy0With a rod they strike the judge of Israel on the cheekThe 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]])
169MIC51hz1yfigs-irony0the judge of IsraelThis 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]])
170MIC52e2u4figs-apostrophe0But you, Bethlehem EphrathahYahweh 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]])
171MIC52kc5ptranslate-names0EphrathahThis 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]])
172MIC52q7k40even though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you one will come“even though other clans in Judah have more people in them, it is one of your people who will come”
173MIC52ha3j0will come to meHere “me” refers to Yahweh.
174MIC52rws4figs-doublet0whose beginning is from ancient times, from everlastingThis 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]])
175MIC53zg3h0Therefore“Because what I have just said is true” or “Because this ruler will come later”
176MIC53xd410will give them upwill abandon the people of Israel
177MIC53nu1x0until the time when she who is in labor bears a childThis refers to the time when the ruler is born, a limited time.
178MIC53du1l0the rest of his brothers“the rest of the rulers fellow Israelites,” who are in exile
179MIC54w1e90General Information:These verses continue describing the ruler from Bethlehem.
180MIC54miw4figs-metaphor0He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of YahwehA 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]])
181MIC54apx2figs-metonymy0in the majesty of the name of Yahweh his GodThe persons name is a metonym for persons 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]])
182MIC54kkz10They will remainthe people of Israel will remain
183MIC54yry50remain“live in safety”
184MIC54jkd70he will be great to the ends of the earthAll people from every nation will give honor to Israels ruler.
185MIC55m8sdfigs-metaphor0seven shepherds and eight leaders over menHere “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]])
186MIC56t2fhfigs-metaphor0They will shepherd the land of Assyria with the sword, and the land of Nimrod in its entrancesThe 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]])
187MIC56upk5figs-ellipsis0and the land of NimrodThe 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]])
188MIC56p1yatranslate-names0land of NimrodThis 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]])
189MIC56cj7q0He will rescueThe ruler will rescue
190MIC57rd4sfigs-simile0like dew from Yahweh, like showers on the grassDew 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]])
191MIC57qz8i0grass, 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.
192MIC58ty4b0General 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.
193MIC58pc960remnant of Jacobdescendants of Jacob who survive the war
194MIC58bv7afigs-doublet0among the nations, among many peoplesThese 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]])
195MIC58rch5figs-simile0like a lion among the animals of the forest, like a young lion among the flocks of sheepLions 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]])
196MIC58fsg40When he goes through themwhen the young lion goes through the flocks of sheep
197MIC58l3ju0will trample over them and tear“will jump on them so they fall down, and then he will tear”
198MIC59qjw5figs-you0Your hand … your enemiesThe writer is speaking to Yahweh, so both instances of “your” are masculine singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
199MIC59g937figs-metonymy0Your hand will be lifted against your enemiesThe 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]])
200MIC59a5bhfigs-synecdoche0it will destroy themThe hand is a synecdoche for the whole person. Alternate translation: “you will destroy them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
201MIC510yvv1figs-explicit0I will destroy your horses from among you and will demolish your chariotsThe 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]])
202MIC510t7ygfigs-you0your horses … among you … your chariotsYahweh is speaking to the people of Israel as if they were one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
203MIC511p7xvfigs-you0your land … your strongholdsYahweh is speaking to the people of Israel as if they were one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
204MIC512j7fb0General Information:Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.
205MIC512w5rnfigs-metonymy0the witchcraft in your handBeing 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]])
206MIC512b4vffigs-you0your hand … you willYahweh continues to speak to the people of Israel as if they were one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
207MIC513udr6figs-you0your carved … your stone … among you. You will … your handsYahweh continues to speak to the people of Israel as if they were one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
208MIC513s47cfigs-abstractnouns0the workmanship of your handsThe abstract noun “workmanship” can be translated using the verb “make.” Alternate translation: “what your hands have made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
209MIC514dd8mfigs-you0your Asherah … among you … your citiesYahweh continues to speak to the people of Israel as if they were one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
210MIC514p6dffigs-metaphor0will uproot your Asherah polesYahweh 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]])
211MIC6introk2350# Micah 6 General Notes<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>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]])
212MIC61wer4figs-apostrophe0Now listenMicah 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]])
213MIC61sz7cfigs-you0Arise … stateMicah 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]])
214MIC61zxw4figs-personification0Arise and state your case before the mountains; let the hills hear your voiceYahweh 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]])
215MIC62vyc6figs-apostrophe0Listen to Yahwehs lawsuitMicah 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]])
216MIC62pbw6figs-personification0you mountains … you enduring foundations of the earthMicah 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 peoples idolatry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
217MIC63if480General Information:This continues Yahwehs lawsuit against the people of Israel ([Micah 6:1-2](./01.md)).
218MIC63smg8figs-rquestion0My 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]])
219MIC63h6ecfigs-you0to you … wearied you? TestifyYahweh 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]])
220MIC64y7refigs-you0brought you … rescued you … Miriam to youYahweh 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]])
221MIC64s8wtfigs-metaphor0house of bondageA house is a metaphor for a place in which one lives for a long time. The abstract noun “bondage” can be translated as “to be slaves.” Alternate translation: “the place where you were slaves for a long time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
222MIC65q1ewfigs-you0remember … you went … you may knowYahweh 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]])
223MIC65ddx50what Balak … devised“the plans Balak … made to harm you
224MIC65q2ujfigs-explicit0how Balaam … answered himThis 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]])
225MIC65mpf3translate-names0BeorThis is the name of Balaams father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
226MIC65rmf60ShittimThis is the name of a place in Moab.
227MIC65w4n8figs-123person0so you may know the righteous acts of YahwehYahweh 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]])
228MIC66n2hifigs-rquestion0What 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]])
229MIC67yc7ffigs-rquestion0Will 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]])
230MIC67mxx1figs-rquestion0thousands 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]])
231MIC68y8pq0He has told you“Yahweh has told you”
232MIC68xd8t0good, and what Yahweh requires from you: Act … GodMany 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?”
233MIC68qii1figs-abstractnouns0love kindnessThe abstract noun “kindness” can be translated using the adjective “kind.” Alternate translation: “love being kind to people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
234MIC69jf56figs-metonymy0even now wisdom acknowledges your nameWisdom 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]])
235MIC69mll1figs-metaphor0Pay attention to the rod, and to the one who has put it in placeHere “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]])
236MIC610va73figs-metonymy0There is wealth in the houses of the wicked that is dishonestDishonest 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]])
237MIC610s6dk0false measuresincorrect weights that people use with scales to increase their wealth by deceiving those with whom they trade
238MIC611j82afigs-rquestion0Should I consider a person to be innocent … weights?This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “I certainly will not consider a person innocent … weights.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
239MIC611h4pk0deceptive weightsweights with which sellers deceive buyers
240MIC612ig8kfigs-metaphor0The rich men are full of violenceRich 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]])
241MIC612j5fxfigs-synecdoche0their tongue in their mouth is deceitfulThe tongue is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “Everything they say is a lie” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
242MIC613c1scfigs-metaphor0I will strike you with a terrible blowYahweh 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]])
243MIC614f2m4figs-metaphor0your emptiness will remain inside youA 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]])
244MIC616i4a30General Information:Yahweh continues speaking to the people of Israel.
245MIC616ke6tfigs-activepassive0The regulations made by Omri have been kept, and all the deeds of the house of AhabThis 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]])
246MIC616tc63translate-names0Omri … AhabBoth 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]])
247MIC616n2j50house of AhabThe word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. Alternate translation: “the descendants of Ahab”
248MIC616em7hfigs-metaphor0You walk by their adviceWalking 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]])
249MIC616s6wyfigs-apostrophe0I will make you, city, a ruin, and you inhabitants an object of hissingMicah 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]])
250MIC616q68q0you will bear the reproach of my people“you will suffer because my people will reproach you”
251MIC7introkf610# Micah 7 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Last days<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>The prophet was able to speak to God on behalf of the people. Often in this chapter, the prophet speaks in Israels place and offers repentance to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])
252MIC71wf5yfigs-metaphor0I have become like the gathering of summer fruit, and like the grapes that have been gleanedMicah 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]])
253MIC71jz29figs-metaphor0no grape cluster … no ripe early figMicah speaks of faithful, upright people as if they were fruit that is good to eat. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
254MIC72x5ssfigs-hyperbole0The faithful ones have disappeared … land; there is no upright person … They all lie in wait … blood; each one huntsThese 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]])
255MIC72qea8figs-metaphor0to shed bloodBlood is a metaphor for the death of innocent people. Alternate translation: “to kill innocent people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
256MIC73ew8e0General Information:Micah continues speaking about the people of Israel.
257MIC73m27ffigs-synecdoche0Their hands are very goodThe hand is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “The people are very good” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
258MIC74nz3ffigs-simile0The best of them is like a brier, the most upright is worse than a thorn hedgeBriers 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]])
259MIC74kin30the most upright“those of them who try hardest to do what is good”
260MIC74qfc3figs-activepassive0It is the day foretold by your watchmen, the day of your punishmentMicah 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]])
261MIC74i385figs-abstractnouns0Now is the time of their confusionThe abstract noun “confusion” can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “Now is when they do not understand what is happening” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
262MIC75h2bv0General Information:Micah continues speaking to the people of Israel.
263MIC75cvb40Do not trust any neighborMicah continues to show that there is no longer anyone good, honest, and loyal to God among Gods people. Here he emphasizes that they cannot even trust friends or family.
264MIC76y6bb0people of his own houseMicah continues to show that there is no longer anyone good, honest, and loyal to God among Gods people. Here he emphasizes that they cannot even trust friends or family.
265MIC76by7ffigs-ellipsis0a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-lawThe 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]])
266MIC76z99gfigs-metonymy0his own houseThe 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]])
267MIC77pvd9figs-metaphor0General 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]])
268MIC77z1eq0But as for meHere “me” refers to Micah.
269MIC77p8kjfigs-abstractnouns0I will wait for the God of my salvationThe abstract noun “salvation” can be translated as a verb. 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]])
270MIC77wd6xfigs-metonymy0will hear meThe word “hear” represents hearing and acting. Alternate translation: “will act to help me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
271MIC78yb44figs-metaphor0fall … riseThese words are metaphors for suffering from disaster and then recovering. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
272MIC78ln69figs-metaphor0sit in darknessThese words are a metaphor for suffering from disaster. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
273MIC79le5tfigs-metaphor0General Information:Micah continues the poem that began in [Micah 7:8](../07/08.md), 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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
274MIC79d2c6figs-metaphor0I will bear his rageRage 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]])
275MIC79v4zl0until he pleads my cause, and executes judgment for meYahweh will punish the people of the other nations who harmed the people of Israel.
276MIC79sr4xfigs-metaphor0he pleads my causeYahweh 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]])
277MIC79sc180executes judgment for me“brings about justice for me”
278MIC79p8ytfigs-metaphor0He will bring me to the lightBringing 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]])
279MIC79t4wh0rescue me in his justice“bring justice to me and rescue me”
280MIC710i9mqfigs-metaphor0General Information:Micah continues and ends the poem that began in [Micah 7:8](../07/08.md), 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. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
281MIC710wv5q0my enemy … the one who said … your God … My eyesThe words “enemy,” “one,” “your,” and “my” here refer to the women in the poem and so are feminine singular.
282MIC710ize3figs-rquestion0Where is Yahweh your God?The enemy uses a question to mock the people of Israel. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Yahweh your God cannot help you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
283MIC710fx2cfigs-synecdoche0My eyesThis phrase here refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: “I” or “We” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
284MIC710d12hfigs-activepassive0she will be trampled downThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “her enemies will trample her down” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
285MIC710j5qhfigs-simile0like the mud in the streetsPeople who walk on mud without thinking they are doing anything bad are compared with those who will destroy Israels enemies without thinking they are doing anything evil. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
286MIC711x4rgfigs-you0General Information:Micah speaks to the people of Israel as if he were speaking to one man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
287MIC711y6xz0A day to build your walls will comeHere “walls” refers to the walls around their cities, which provided safety and security from their enemies.
288MIC711ue5mfigs-activepassive0the boundaries will be extended very farThis 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]])
289MIC712hs2ufigs-explicit0the RiverYou may need to make explicit the name of river. Alternate translation: “the Euphrates River” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
290MIC712bd5tfigs-explicit0from sea to seaYou 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]])
291MIC712y16yfigs-idiom0from mountain to mountain“from one mountain to another.” Micah does not speak of any particular mountain. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
292MIC713av6g0the land will be desolate“the land will be empty” or “no one will live in the land”
293MIC713n1e8figs-metaphor0because of the fruit of their actionsFruit 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]])
294MIC714jsh4figs-metaphor0Shepherd your people with your rod, the flock of your inheritanceMicah is praying to Yahweh, asking him to protect his people of Israel again. Here “rod” refers to Gods leadership and guidance, as a shepherd uses a stick to guide and protect his sheep. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
295MIC714cu5wfigs-metaphor0They live alone in a thicket, in the midst of a pasturelandMicah 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]])
296MIC714l8a30a thicketa place where many small woody plants grow
297MIC714brz20Bashan and GileadThese regions are known as rich land for growing food.
298MIC714whi8figs-explicit0as in the old daysBashan and Gilead had been part of Israel long ago, when David was king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
299MIC715e3z50As in the days … them wondersYahweh speaks to the people.
300MIC716mhq2figs-metaphor0The nationsThe 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]])
301MIC716mzy2translate-symaction0They will put their hands on their mouthsThey do this to show that they are ashamed of what they have done. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
302MIC716n9vhfigs-idiom0their ears will be deafThis is an idiom. Nothing anyone says will have any effect on them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
303MIC717e21sfigs-hyperbole0They will lick the dust like a snakeSnakes 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]])
304MIC717zg31figs-metaphor0their densThe 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]])
305MIC718g3i6figs-rquestion0Who is a God like you—who takes … inheritance?Micah is emphasizing that there is no God like Yahweh. This can be translated 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]])
306MIC718kr7v0the remnant of his inheritance“those of his chosen people who have survived his punishment”
307MIC718a8d2figs-123person0you … 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]])
308MIC718f1lpfigs-abstractnouns0he delights in his covenant faithfulnessThe abstract noun “faithfulness” can be stated 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]])
309MIC718ups50passes overignores
310MIC718mcd30does not keep his anger“does not stay angry”
311MIC719i7z3figs-you0You willHere “you” refers to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
312MIC719i1u2figs-exclusive0on usHere “us” refers to Micah and the people, but not to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
313MIC719rqi9figs-metaphor0you will trample our iniquities under your feet. You will throw all our sins into the depths of the seaIniquity 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]])
314MIC720q32mfigs-metonymy0You will give truth to Jacob and covenant faithfulness to AbrahamHere 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]])