King James Version
What Does Micah 3:10 Mean?
“They build up Zion with blood, and Jerusalem with iniquity. blood: Heb. bloods”
Context
8
But truly I am full of power by the spirit of the LORD, and of judgment, and of might, to declare unto Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin.
9
Hear this, I pray you, ye heads of the house of Jacob, and princes of the house of Israel, that abhor judgment, and pervert all equity.
10
They build up Zion with blood, and Jerusalem with iniquity. blood: Heb. bloods
11
The heads thereof judge for reward, and the priests thereof teach for hire, and the prophets thereof divine for money: yet will they lean upon the LORD, and say, Is not the LORD among us? none evil can come upon us. and say: Heb. saying
12
Therefore shall Zion for your sake be plowed as a field, and Jerusalem shall become heaps, and the mountain of the house as the high places of the forest.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(10) **They build up Zion with blood**—*i.e.*, they acquire money for the erection of splendid buildings by spoliation and robbery, not stopping short of murder. So also Habakkuk (Micah 2:12) denounces the king of Babylon for the bloody wars with which he obtained wealth for the enlargement of the city.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Micah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Micah 3:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Micah 3:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge