King James Version
What Does Micah 3:2 Mean?
“Who hate the good, and love the evil; who pluck off their skin from off them, and their flesh from off their bones;”
Context
1
And I said, Hear, I pray you, O heads of Jacob, and ye princes of the house of Israel; Is it not for you to know judgment?
2
Who hate the good, and love the evil; who pluck off their skin from off them, and their flesh from off their bones;
3
Who also eat the flesh of my people, and flay their skin from off them; and they break their bones, and chop them in pieces, as for the pot, and as flesh within the caldron.
4
Then shall they cry unto the LORD, but he will not hear them: he will even hide his face from them at that time, as they have behaved themselves ill in their doings.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(2, 3) **Who hate the good.**—The judges, instead of fulfilling the obligations of their office, whereby they should be “for the people to God-ward,” perpetrated the most flagrant cruelty upon them. Micah compares it to the process of preparing food, in which every part of the animal, even to the bones, is utilised. So the judges robbed the people until there was nothing left to them.
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 3:2 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 3:2
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge