Micah 4:11

Authorized King James Version

Now also many nations are gathered against thee, that say, Let her be defiled, and let our eye look upon Zion.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעַתָּ֛ה
at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive
#2
נֶאֶסְפ֥וּ
are gathered
to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e., remove (destroy, leave behind, put up, restore, etc.)
#3
עָלַ֖יִךְ
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
גּוֹיִ֣ם
nations
a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts
#5
רַבִּ֑ים
Now also many
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#6
הָאֹמְרִ֣ים
against thee that say
to say (used with great latitude)
#7
תֶּחֱנָ֔ף
Let her be defiled
to soil, especially in a moral sense
#8
וְתַ֥חַז
look
to gaze at; mentally to perceive, contemplate (with pleasure); specifically, to have a vision of
#9
בְּצִיּ֖וֹן
upon Zion
tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem
#10
עֵינֵֽינוּ׃
and let our eye
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Micah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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