Micah 2:3

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068}; Behold, against this family {H4940} do I devise {H2803} an evil {H7451}, from which ye shall not remove {H4185} your necks {H6677}; neither shall ye go {H3212} haughtily {H7317}: for this time {H6256} is evil {H7451}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore this is what ADONAI says: "Against this family I am planning an evil from which you will not withdraw your necks; nor will you walk with your heads held high, for it will be an evil time."

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore this is what the LORD says: “I am planning against this nation a disaster from which you cannot free your necks. Then you will not walk so proudly, for it will be a time of calamity.

American Standard Version

Therefore thus saith Jehovah: Behold, against this family do I devise an evil, from which ye shall not remove your necks, neither shall ye walk haughtily; for it is an evil time.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Micah 2:3 delivers a stark divine declaration from the LORD, announcing an inescapable judgment upon the rebellious "family" of Israel or Judah. This impending "evil"—a term signifying calamity or disaster—is meticulously "devised" by God as a just consequence for their pervasive moral corruption, particularly their oppression of the vulnerable and their arrogant defiance. The prophecy emphasizes the certainty and severity of this divine retribution, from which they will find no escape, and which will inevitably humble their pride.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the immediate divine response to the scathing indictment found in [Micah 2:1-2](/micah/2-1-2 "Micah 2:1-2 - Woes Against Oppressors"). Micah has just pronounced a "woe" upon those who "devise iniquity and work evil upon their beds," specifically targeting the powerful and wealthy who covet, seize, and oppress the poor, taking their lands and houses. The "family" mentioned in [Micah 2:3](/micah/2-3 "Micah 2:3 - God's Judgment on the Rebellious") is therefore the very people—likely the nation of Israel or Judah, particularly its corrupt leadership and elite—who are guilty of these systemic injustices. God's declaration in this verse directly links their moral evil to the calamitous "evil" He will bring upon them, establishing a clear cause-and-effect relationship within the prophetic narrative. The pronouncement of inescapable judgment sets the stage for further laments and promises of restoration later in the book, highlighting the severity of their sin before any hope is offered.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Micah prophesied during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (circa 750-700 BC), a period of significant social and economic upheaval in both Israel (the Northern Kingdom) and Judah (the Southern Kingdom). While Israel faced the imminent threat of Assyrian conquest (which occurred in 722 BC), Judah was also under pressure and eventually suffered the Babylonian exile in 586 BC. The cultural backdrop was one of increasing disparity between the rich and the poor, where the powerful exploited the vulnerable through unjust legal practices, land seizures, and economic oppression, often under the guise of religious observance. The "haughty" attitude described reflects the arrogance of those who believed their wealth or religious rituals would protect them from divine judgment, ignoring the covenantal demands for justice and righteousness. The imagery of a "yoke" or inability to "remove necks" would have resonated with an agrarian society familiar with animals yoked for labor or sacrifice, symbolizing inescapable servitude or punishment.
* **Key Themes:** [Micah 2:3](/micah/2-3 "Micah 2:3 - God's Judgment on the Rebellious") powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Micah. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Retribution for Injustice**, where God, as the righteous judge, actively intervenes to punish the moral evil and social oppression committed by His people. This "evil" He devises is a just consequence, not a moral failing on His part, underscoring the principle that God will not tolerate persistent wickedness, as seen in passages like [Psalm 7:11](/psalm/7-11 "Psalm 7:11 - God is a Righteous Judge"). Another prominent theme is **Inescapable Judgment**, vividly portrayed by the inability to "remove your necks," signifying a complete and unavoidable subjugation to the impending disaster. This highlights the certainty and severity of God's decree, emphasizing that human efforts or strategies will be futile in averting the prophesied calamity. Finally, the verse speaks to the **Humiliation of the Proud**, as the command "neither shall ye go haughtily" directly addresses the arrogance and defiance that characterized the oppressors. The judgment will strip them of their pride, bringing them low and demonstrating that, as [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction") teaches, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall."

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **devise (Hebrew, _châshab'_):** (H2803) This primitive root means "to plait or interpenetrate," extending to "weave" or "fabricate." Figuratively, it denotes "to plot or contrive," often in a malicious sense, but also "to think, regard, value, compute." In this context, when applied to the LORD, it highlights God's intentional, calculated, and deliberate planning of the judgment. It is not an impulsive act, but a carefully considered divine strategy, mirroring the human "devising" of evil in [Micah 2:1](/micah/2-1 "Micah 2:1 - Woe to Those Who Devise Evil").
* **evil (Hebrew, _raʻ'_):** (H7451) This versatile word can mean "bad" or "evil" in a moral sense, but also "calamity," "disaster," or "misfortune." Here, when God "devises an evil," it refers to a punitive consequence—a divinely ordained disaster or affliction—rather than moral wickedness on God's part. The phrase "this time is evil" also uses this word, referring to the moral depravity and wickedness of the era itself, which necessitates God's intervention.
* **remove (Hebrew, _mûwsh'_):** (H4185) A primitive root meaning "to withdraw" (literally or figuratively), "to cease," "depart," or "take away." In the phrase "ye shall not remove your necks," it conveys the absolute inability to escape or shake off the impending burden or yoke of judgment. The people will be utterly bound and unable to free themselves from the divine decree.
* **necks (Hebrew, _tsavvâʼr'_):** (H6677) Refers to the back of the neck, specifically as the part on which burdens are bound, or where an animal is yoked. This imagery powerfully conveys subjugation, servitude, and the bearing of a heavy burden. The inability to "remove your necks" signifies being irrevocably yoked to the coming disaster, unable to break free.
* **haughtily (Hebrew, _rôwmâh'_):** (H7317) Derived from a root meaning "elation" or "height," this adverb means "proudly" or "with elation." It describes the arrogant, defiant posture and spirit of those who oppressed others and believed themselves immune to consequences. The judgment will strip them of this pride, forcing them into a posture of humility and submission.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, against this family do I devise an evil,"**: This opening clause establishes the divine origin and certainty of the pronouncement. "Therefore" links directly to the preceding indictment of their sins. The LORD (Yahweh), the covenant God of Israel, is the speaker, emphasizing His authority and covenant faithfulness. He declares His intention to "devise an evil"—a calamity or disaster—specifically against "this family," referring to the nation of Judah/Israel, particularly its corrupt elements. This is a deliberate, planned act of judgment, a just recompense for their moral "evil."
* **"from which ye shall not remove your necks;"**: This vivid metaphor portrays the people as animals yoked for labor or sacrifice, unable to escape the burden or the impending doom. It signifies the inescapable nature of the coming judgment. No human strength, cunning, or defiance will allow them to break free from the divine decree; they will be utterly bound by its consequences.
* **"neither shall ye go haughtily:"**: This clause speaks directly to the pride and arrogance that characterized the oppressors. Their "haughty" walk, a symbol of their self-assured defiance and contempt for God's law and the suffering of others, will be brought low. The judgment will strip them of their elevated status and proud demeanor, forcing them into humility and submission.
* **"for this time [is] evil."**: This concluding phrase provides the rationale for the severe judgment. The "time" refers not merely to a chronological period but to the prevailing moral and spiritual condition of the era. It is "evil" because of the widespread injustice, oppression, and moral depravity of the people themselves. Their actions have made the times wicked, thus necessitating and justifying God's decisive intervention and judgment.

#### Literary Devices
Micah 2:3 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of impending judgment. **Irony** is evident in God's declaration that He will "devise an evil." While "evil" (ra'a) often refers to moral wickedness, here it signifies calamity or disaster. The irony lies in God, who is perfectly righteous, "devising" a destructive outcome as a just response to the moral "evil" devised and perpetrated by His people in [Micah 2:1](/micah/2-1 "Micah 2:1 - Woe to Those Who Devise Evil"). This highlights divine justice. A striking **Metaphor** is found in the phrase "ye shall not remove your necks." This imagery evokes an animal under a heavy, inescapable yoke, symbolizing the complete and unavoidable subjugation to the impending divine punishment. It vividly portrays the futility of resistance. Furthermore, the phrase "neither shall ye go haughtily" utilizes **Synecdoche**, where "going haughtily" (a physical posture) represents the entire attitude of pride, arrogance, and defiance that characterizes the people. The physical humiliation is a symbol of their spiritual and social downfall. The entire verse functions as a **Divine Oracle**, a direct pronouncement from the LORD, lending it absolute authority and certainty.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Micah 2:3 powerfully articulates the biblical principle of divine justice and the inevitable consequences of sin, particularly social injustice and pride. It underscores God's active involvement in human history, not merely as a passive observer, but as a righteous judge who holds individuals and nations accountable for their actions. The "evil" God devises is a manifestation of His holiness and His commitment to upholding His moral order, serving as a just recompense for the "evil" (wickedness) of humanity. This passage affirms that persistent rebellion, marked by oppression and arrogance, will ultimately invite severe divine intervention, demonstrating that God's patience has limits and His judgment is certain. It reminds us that true prosperity and peace are contingent upon righteousness and humility, not upon material gain or self-exaltation.

* [Proverbs 11:31](/proverbs/11-31 "Proverbs 11:31 - The Righteous and the Wicked Recompensed")
* [Jeremiah 21:12](/jeremiah/21-12 "Jeremiah 21:12 - Execute Justice")
* [Amos 5:24](/amos/5-24 "Amos 5:24 - Let Justice Roll Down")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Micah 2:3 serves as a timeless and sobering reminder that God's justice is not passive, nor is it a distant concept. It is an active force that responds to human sin, particularly when that sin involves oppression, greed, and a haughty disregard for God's commands and the well-being of others. For us today, this verse challenges us to examine our own lives and communities. Are we, individually or corporately, "devising evil" through our actions, our policies, or our attitudes? Do we pursue wealth or power at the expense of justice and compassion? The inescapable nature of the judgment reminds us that there is no hiding from God's scrutiny, and no human strategy can ultimately avert the consequences of persistent sin. Furthermore, the call to not "go haughtily" is a direct challenge to pride in all its forms—pride in our achievements, our status, our self-sufficiency, or even our perceived righteousness. True wisdom and security lie not in self-exaltation but in humble submission to God and a fervent pursuit of His righteousness and justice in all our dealings. This passage calls us to repentance, to a renewed commitment to ethical living, and to a posture of humility before the sovereign God who judges justly.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, or my community, be "devising evil" through actions or attitudes that contradict God's call for justice and compassion?**
* **How does the concept of "not removing your necks" challenge my assumptions about control and escape from consequences in my own life?**
* **What specific areas of my life might reflect a "haughty" spirit, and how can I cultivate greater humility before God and others?**
* **Considering that "this time is evil," what is my responsibility to be a force for righteousness and good in the moral climate of my own era?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean that the LORD "devises an evil"? Is God evil?**

Answer: No, God is not evil in the moral sense. The Hebrew word for "evil" (ra'a, H7451) is polysemous, meaning it has multiple meanings depending on the context. While it can refer to moral wickedness (as in the "evil" devised by the people in [Micah 2:1](/micah/2-1 "Micah 2:1 - Woe to Those Who Devise Evil")), when applied to God, it signifies "calamity," "disaster," or "misfortune." Therefore, when the LORD "devises an evil," it means He is intentionally planning and bringing about a punitive consequence or a catastrophic judgment as a just response to the moral evil and rebellion of His people. It is a righteous act of divine retribution, not an act of sin on God's part. This is consistent with God's character as a holy and just judge who punishes sin (e.g., [Isaiah 45:7](/isaiah/45-7 "Isaiah 45:7 - God Creates Good and Evil")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Micah 2:3, with its pronouncement of inescapable judgment for sin and pride, finds its ultimate fulfillment and resolution in Jesus Christ. The "evil" that God devises as a just consequence for human wickedness points to the righteous wrath of God against sin, a wrath that would ultimately fall upon the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") Himself. Jesus, though perfectly righteous, bore the full weight of this divine judgment on the cross, becoming sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). The imagery of "not removing your necks" from the yoke of judgment highlights humanity's utter helplessness to escape the consequences of sin. However, Christ offers a different yoke: "Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light" ([Matthew 11:29-30](/matthew/11-29-30 "Matthew 11:29-30 - Jesus' Easy Yoke")). He frees us from the crushing burden of sin and its judgment. Furthermore, the command "neither shall ye go haughtily" directly confronts the pride that separates humanity from God. Jesus perfectly embodied humility, "though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant" ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6-7 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humility")). Through His humble obedience and sacrificial death, Christ not only absorbed the judgment for our pride but also paved the way for us to walk in humility and righteousness, ultimately bringing about the righteous kingdom where justice truly rolls down like waters ([Amos 5:24](/amos/5-24 "Amos 5:24 - Let Justice Roll Down")) and the "time" is made good through His redemptive work.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Amos 5:13

Therefore the prudent shall keep silence in that time; for it [is] an evil time.

Jeremiah 8:3

And death shall be chosen rather than life by all the residue of them that remain of this evil family, which remain in all the places whither I have driven them, saith the LORD of hosts.

Isaiah 2:11

The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day.

Isaiah 2:12

For the day of the LORD of hosts [shall be] upon every [one that is] proud and lofty, and upon every [one that is] lifted up; and he shall be brought low:

Jeremiah 18:11

¶ Now therefore go to, speak to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I frame evil against you, and devise a device against you: return ye now every one from his evil way, and make your ways and your doings good.

Isaiah 28:14

¶ Wherefore hear the word of the LORD, ye scornful men, that rule this people which [is] in Jerusalem.

Isaiah 28:18

And your covenant with death shall be disannulled, and your agreement with hell shall not stand; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, then ye shall be trodden down by it.