Micah 1:14

Authorized King James Version

Therefore shalt thou give presents to Moresheth-gath: the houses of Achzib shall be a lie to the kings of Israel.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לָכֵן֙
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#2
תִּתְּנִ֣י
Therefore shalt thou give
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#3
שִׁלּוּחִ֔ים
presents
(only in plural) a dismissal, i.e., (of a wife) divorce (especially the document); also (of a daughter) dower
#4
עַ֖ל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
מוֹרֶ֣שֶׁת
H0
#6
גַּ֑ת
to Moreshethgath
moresheth-gath, a place in palestine
#7
בָּתֵּ֤י
the houses
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#8
אַכְזִיב֙
of Achzib
akzib, the name of two places in palestine
#9
לְאַכְזָ֔ב
shall be a lie
falsehood; by implication treachery
#10
לְמַלְכֵ֖י
to the kings
a king
#11
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Micah. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection