Micah 2:8

Authorized King James Version

Even of late my people is risen up as an enemy: ye pull off the robe with the garment from them that pass by securely as men averse from war.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאֶתְמ֗וּל
H865
Even of late
heretofore; definitely yesterday
#2
עַמִּי֙
H5971
my people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#3
לְאוֹיֵ֣ב
H341
as an enemy
hating; an adversary
#4
יְקוֹמֵ֔ם
H6965
is risen up
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
#5
מִמּ֣וּל
H4136
with
properly, abrupt, i.e., a precipice; by implication, the front; used only adverbially (with prepositional prefix) opposite
#6
שַׂלְמָ֔ה
H8008
the garment
a dress
#7
אֶ֖דֶר
H145
the robe
amplitude, i.e., (concrete) a mantle; also (figuratively) splendor
#8
תַּפְשִׁט֑וּן
H6584
ye pull off
to spread out (i.e., deploy in hostile array); by analogy, to strip (i.e., unclothe, plunder, flay, etc.)
#9
מֵעֹבְרִ֣ים
H5674
from them that pass
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
#10
בֶּ֔טַח
H983
by securely
properly, a place of refuge; abstract, safety, both the fact (security) and the feeling (trust); often (adverb with or without preposition) safely
#11
שׁוּבֵ֖י
H7725
as men averse
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#12
מִלְחָמָֽה׃
H4421
from war
a battle (i.e., the engagement); generally, war (i.e., war-fare)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Micah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Micah.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Micah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection