Micah 4:12

Authorized King James Version

But they know not the thoughts of the LORD, neither understand they his counsel: for he shall gather them as the sheaves into the floor.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהֵ֗מָּה
H1992
they (only used when emphatic)
#2
לֹ֤א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
יָֽדְעוּ֙
H3045
But they know
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#4
מַחְשְׁב֣וֹת
H4284
not the thoughts
a contrivance, i.e., (concretely) a texture, machine, or (abstractly) intention, plan (whether bad, a plot; or good, advice)
#5
יְהוָ֔ה
H3068
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#6
וְלֹ֥א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
הֵבִ֖ינוּ
H995
neither understand
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
#8
עֲצָת֑וֹ
H6098
they his counsel
advice; by implication, plan; also prudence
#9
כִּ֥י
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#10
קִבְּצָ֖ם
H6908
for he shall gather
to grasp, i.e., collect
#11
כֶּעָמִ֥יר
H5995
them as the sheaves
a bunch of grain
#12
גֹּֽרְנָה׃
H1637
into the floor
a threshing-floor (as made even); by analogy, any open area

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Micah. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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