Micah 3:10

Authorized King James Version

They build up Zion with blood, and Jerusalem with iniquity.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בֹּנֶ֥ה
They build up
to build (literally and figuratively)
#2
צִיּ֖וֹן
Zion
tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem
#3
בְּדָמִ֑ים
with blood
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#4
וִירוּשָׁלִַ֖ם
and Jerusalem
jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine
#5
בְּעַוְלָֽה׃
with iniquity
(moral) evil

Analysis

Within the broader context of Micah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection