Micah 7:17

Authorized King James Version

They shall lick the dust like a serpent, they shall move out of their holes like worms of the earth: they shall be afraid of the LORD our God, and shall fear because of thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יְלַחֲכ֤וּ
They shall lick
to lick
#2
עָפָר֙
the dust
dust (as powdered or gray); hence, clay, earth, mud
#3
כַּנָּחָ֔שׁ
like a serpent
a snake (from its hiss)
#4
כְּזֹחֲלֵ֣י
like worms
by implication, to fear
#5
אֶ֔רֶץ
of the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#6
יִרְגְּז֖וּ
they shall move
to quiver (with any violent emotion, especially anger or fear)
#7
מִמִּסְגְּרֹֽתֵיהֶ֑ם
out of their holes
something enclosing, i.e., a margin (of a region, of a panel); concretely, a stronghold
#8
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#9
יְהוָ֤ה
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#10
אֱלֹהֵ֙ינוּ֙
our God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#11
יִפְחָ֔דוּ
they shall be afraid
to be startled (by a sudden alarm); hence, to fear in general
#12
וְיִֽרְא֖וּ
and shall fear
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
#13
מִמֶּֽךָּ׃
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

Analysis

Within the broader context of Micah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection