FocusExploitation and corrupt leadership
Micah 2:5
KJVTherefore thou shalt have none that shall cast a cord by lot in the congregation of the LORD.
This opening unit introduces the chapter’s movement. The opening messages expose the conduct bringing judgment on Samaria and Jerusalem, including the failures of rulers and prophets.
- 2:1 Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.
- 2:2 And they covet fields, and take them by violence; and houses, and take them away: so they oppress a man and his house, even a man and his heritage.
- 2:3 Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, against this family do I devise an evil, from which ye shall not remove your necks; neither shall ye go haughtily: for this time is evil.
- 2:4 In that day shall one take up a parable against you, and lament with a doleful lamentation, and say, We be utterly spoiled: he hath changed the portion of my people: how hath he removed it from me! turning away he hath divided our fields.
- 2:5 Therefore thou shalt have none that shall cast a cord by lot in the congregation of the LORD.
Who
- Who wrote the book? Micah of Moresheth is the named prophet and traditional author. Biblical references: Micah 1:1. stated in the text
- Who was present or being addressed in this passage? In the surrounding chapter context (Micah 1:1–3:12): Micah addresses Samaria and Jerusalem, including landowners, rulers, priests, and prophets whose conduct harms the people. stated in the text
- Who was the book written to? Samaria and Jerusalem, including their rulers, prophets, and people, with an appeal heard by the wider nations. Biblical references: Micah 1:1; Micah 1:2; Micah 3:1. stated in the text
What
- What is the topic of this reading unit? Woe to Oppressors. Read Micah 2:1 through Micah 2:5 as a connected unit. interpretation
- How does it contribute to the book? This opening unit introduces the chapter’s movement. The opening messages expose the conduct bringing judgment on Samaria and Jerusalem, including the failures of rulers and prophets. interpretation
When
- When are the events or message set? Micah's opening names the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. The book announces both judgment and later hope. book background
Where
- What is the book’s geographic setting? The vision concerns Samaria and Jerusalem and includes references to towns of Judah, Zion, and Bethlehem. book background
- Where does the context start? This passage sits in Woe to Oppressors (Micah 2:1 to Micah 2:5). Start reading at Micah 2:1. An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
How
- How does this book connect with Jesus Christ? Matthew cites the Bethlehem ruler passage in the account of Jesus' birth. Keep the surrounding themes of judgment, shepherding, and peace in view when making that connection. See Micah 5:2, Matthew 2:5, Matthew 2:6. interpretation
- How should this book guide our response? Practice justice, mercy, and humble walking with God. Read that appeal within the covenant case rather than reducing it to a slogan detached from the book's accusations. interpretation
Cited: Micah 2:1, Micah 2:5, Micah 5:2, Matthew 2:5, Matthew 2:6
Who wrote it, and how we know
Related passages
- cast Deut 32:8 Josh 18:4,10 Ps 16:6 Hos 9:3
- the congregation Deut 23:2,8 Neh 7:61
Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).
Macro-Structure
See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.
Macro-Structure of Micah 2
Reproof of False Prophets
Micah 2:6–11FocusExploitation and corrupt leadership
The Remnant of Israel
Micah 2:12–13FocusExploitation and corrupt leadership
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.
Macro-Structure of Micah
FocusExploitation and corrupt leadership
Zion and the coming ruler
Micah 4:1–5:15FocusHope amid distress
The covenant case and concluding hope
Micah 6:1–7:20FocusFaithfulness, confession, and mercy
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.