Old Testament
Micah 2:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
On that day, someone will recite a parable against you and lament with a sorrowful lamentation, saying, 'We are utterly ruined! He has changed the portion of my people; how has he taken it from me! He has divided our fields.'
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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.
What Micah 2:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Micah 2:4, the prophet speaks of a future time when people will express their deep sorrow and regret over the loss of their land and possessions. This lamentation reflects the devastation caused by unjust actions and the exploitation of the vulnerable. The phrase 'we are utterly ruined' highlights the severity of their situation, as they feel robbed of their rightful inheritance. The mention of changing the portion of the people indicates a betrayal of trust, where the powerful have taken advantage of the weak, leading to a division of their fields. This verse serves as a warning against greed and injustice, emphasizing the consequences of such actions on the community's well-being. It calls for reflection on how societal structures can lead to the suffering of individuals and families, urging a return to fairness and compassion in dealings with one another.
How to apply Micah 2:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and their impact on others. We should strive for justice and fairness in our dealings, ensuring that we do not exploit or harm those who are vulnerable. Supporting equitable practices can help build a stronger community.
Curated for this public verse page. Micah Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Micah
- Author
- Micah the prophet
- Written
- Around 735-700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Micah 2:4 mean?
Micah 2:4 describes a future time when people will mourn the loss of their land and possessions due to injustice. It highlights the pain caused by the exploitation of the vulnerable and serves as a warning against greed.
What is the significance of 'we are utterly ruined' in Micah 2:4?
The phrase 'we are utterly ruined' emphasizes the severity of the people's situation, expressing their deep sorrow over being robbed of their rightful inheritance and the betrayal they feel from those in power.
What does the term 'changing the portion' refer to in Micah 2:4?
'Changing the portion' refers to the unjust actions of powerful individuals who take away the land and resources that rightfully belong to the vulnerable, leading to a division of their fields.
What themes are present in Micah 2:4?
Micah 2:4 encompasses themes of injustice, loss, lamentation, exploitation, community, and divine judgment, reflecting the consequences of greed and the need for fairness.
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