Old Testament
Micah 4:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Writhe and push like a woman giving birth, daughter of Zion! You will leave the city and live out in the open fields. You will go all the way to Babylon — but there you will be rescued. There the LORD will redeem you from the grip of your enemies.
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Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field, and thou shalt go even to Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies.
What Micah 4:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Micah 4:10, the imagery of a woman in labor symbolizes the intense suffering and struggle that the people of Zion will experience. They are urged to endure this pain as they will eventually leave their city and face exile in Babylon. However, this verse also carries a message of hope, as it assures them that despite their hardships, they will be rescued and redeemed by the Lord. The mention of Babylon signifies a place of captivity, but it is also where God promises to deliver them from their enemies. This duality of pain and hope reflects the broader theme of restoration that runs throughout the book of Micah, emphasizing that even in the darkest times, God’s faithfulness will prevail, leading to eventual redemption and freedom.
How to apply Micah 4:10 to your life
When facing difficult times, remember that struggles can lead to growth and eventual deliverance. Trust in God's promise of redemption, even when circumstances seem bleak. Embrace the journey, knowing that hope and restoration are possible through faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Micah Summary
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Keep studying Micah 4:10
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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 4:10 mean?
Micah 4:10 uses the imagery of a woman in labor to illustrate the suffering and struggles of Zion's people. It emphasizes that despite their pain and impending exile to Babylon, they will ultimately be rescued and redeemed by the Lord.
What is the significance of Babylon in Micah 4:10?
In Micah 4:10, Babylon represents a place of captivity and exile for the people of Zion. However, it is also where God promises to deliver them from their enemies, highlighting a theme of hope amidst suffering.
What does the phrase 'daughter of Zion' refer to in Micah 4:10?
The phrase 'daughter of Zion' in Micah 4:10 refers to the people of Jerusalem or the nation of Israel. It symbolizes the collective identity of God's chosen people who are experiencing distress and longing for redemption.
How does Micah 4:10 relate to the theme of redemption?
Micah 4:10 relates to the theme of redemption by assuring the people that despite their hardships and exile, God will rescue them from their enemies. This promise of deliverance reinforces the idea that hope exists even in difficult times.
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