Micah 5:6

KJV

And they shall waste the land of Assyria with the sword, and the land of Nimrod in the entrances thereof: thus shall he deliver [us] from the Assyrian, when he cometh into our land, and when he treadeth within our borders.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they shall waste {H7462} the land {H776} of Assyria {H804} with the sword {H2719}, and the land {H776} of Nimrod {H5248} in the entrances {H6607} thereof: thus shall he deliver {H5337} us from the Assyrian {H804}, when he cometh {H935} into our land {H776}, and when he treadeth {H1869} within our borders {H1366}.

Complete Jewish Bible

They will shepherd the land of Ashur with the sword, the land of Nimrod at its gates; and he will rescue us from Ashur when he invades our land, when he overruns our borders.

Berean Standard Bible

And they will rule the land of Assyria with the sword, and the land of Nimrod with the blade drawn. So He will deliver us when Assyria invades our land and marches into our borders.

American Standard Version

And they shall waste the land of Assyria with the sword, and the land of Nimrod in the entrances thereof: and he shall deliver us from the Assyrian, when he cometh into our land, and when he treadeth within our border.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Micah 5:6 is a powerful prophetic declaration outlining God's promised deliverance for His people from oppressive empires, specifically Assyria and the "land of Nimrod." It foretells a future where the people of God, empowered by their divine leader, will not merely withstand invasion but will actively "waste" and "deliver" themselves from the enemy within their own strongholds, signifying a complete reversal of fortune and a comprehensive victory orchestrated by the Messiah.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the profound Messianic prophecy of [Micah 5:2-5](/micah/5-2-5 "Micah 5:2-5 - The Birth and Reign of the Messiah"), which speaks of a ruler emerging from Bethlehem who will shepherd Israel and be their "peace" in the face of Assyrian aggression. [Micah 5:1](/micah/5-1 "Micah 5:1 - Siege of Jerusalem") sets the stage with the immediate threat of siege against Jerusalem. Thus, [Micah 5:6](/micah/5-6 "Micah 5:6 - Deliverance from Assyria") serves as the triumphant resolution to the preceding tension, detailing the victorious counter-offensive led by the promised Messiah. It shifts from the Messiah's person and role to the specific actions and outcomes of His leadership, demonstrating how His presence brings about tangible deliverance and even offensive action against the oppressors. The imagery of the "remnant of Jacob" being like a "lion among the beasts of the forest" in [Micah 5:8](/micah/5-8 "Micah 5:8 - The Remnant as a Lion") further reinforces the theme of strength and dominion that begins to emerge in this verse.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Micah ministered in Judah during the late 8th century BC, a period dominated by the brutal and expansionist Neo-Assyrian Empire. Assyria was the preeminent superpower, known for its devastating military campaigns, forced deportations, and cruel treatment of conquered peoples. The northern kingdom of Israel had already fallen to Assyria in 722 BC, and Judah itself faced imminent invasion, notably Sennacherib's campaign against Jerusalem in 701 BC. The "land of Nimrod" refers to Mesopotamia, the ancient region where Assyria was located, linking the contemporary threat to a much older, foundational symbol of human rebellion against God (as seen in [Genesis 10:8-12](/genesis/10-8-12 "Genesis 10:8-12 - Nimrod and the Tower of Babel")). This historical backdrop underscores the dire situation of Judah and makes the prophecy of deliverance all the more striking and miraculous, as it promises not just survival but a decisive victory over the most formidable power of the age.

* **Key Themes:** [Micah 5:6](/micah/5-6 "Micah 5:6 - Deliverance from Assyria") significantly contributes to several major themes within Micah and the broader prophetic literature. Firstly, **Divine Deliverance** is paramount; the verse explicitly states, "thus shall he deliver [us] from the Assyrian," emphasizing God's faithfulness to His covenant people and His power to rescue them from overwhelming odds. This deliverance is not passive but involves active intervention. Secondly, **Messianic Victory** is central, as the "he" who delivers points directly back to the "ruler in Israel" from [Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - The Bethlehem Ruler"). This highlights the Messiah's decisive role in securing peace and triumph, not just through His presence but through His powerful actions against oppressors. Finally, the theme of **Reversal of Fortune** is vividly portrayed. The aggressor, Assyria, is "wasted" in their own land, signifying a complete inversion of power dynamics where the oppressed become instruments of judgment against their former tormentors. This reversal extends to the "land of Nimrod," broadening the scope to encompass any powerful, oppressive empire that stands against God's people, promising ultimate triumph over all hostile forces.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **waste (Hebrew, _râʻâh'_):** From H7462, this word primarily means "to tend a flock" or "to pasture." However, it can also mean "to devour," "eat up," or "waste," especially in a destructive sense when applied to enemies. In this context, it signifies a complete and devastating consumption or destruction of the enemy's land, turning their strength into desolation. The imagery is one of overwhelming victory where the land is utterly consumed, much like a flock consumes pasture, but here it is the land of the enemy that is "wasted."
* **sword (Hebrew, _chereb'_):** From H2719, this refers to a cutting instrument, specifically a "sword," but also broadly "knife" or "dagger." It is a symbol of military power, violence, and judgment. Its use here emphasizes the decisive and destructive nature of the counter-offensive against Assyria, indicating a literal military defeat brought about by force.
* **deliver (Hebrew, _nâtsal'_):** From H5337, this primitive root means "to snatch away," "rescue," "save," or "preserve." It implies an active intervention to free someone from danger or oppression. In Micah 5:6, it underscores the divine agency behind the liberation, emphasizing that it is God, through His chosen leader, who brings about this salvation from the Assyrian threat. The deliverance is not merely an escape but a decisive act of rescue.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they shall waste the land of Assyria with the sword, and the land of Nimrod in the entrances thereof:"** This clause describes the offensive action taken against the oppressors. "They" refers to the delivered people of God, likely under the leadership of the Messiah. The "land of Assyria" and the "land of Nimrod" (Mesopotamia, a broader term for the region including Assyria) represent the heartland of the enemy empire. To "waste" with the "sword" signifies a complete military conquest and devastation of their territory, reaching into their very "entrances" or gates—the strongholds and points of access—implying a thorough and overwhelming victory.
* **"thus shall he deliver [us] from the Assyrian, when he cometh into our land, and when he treadeth within our borders."** This clause highlights the purpose and agent of the action. The "he" refers back to the Messiah from [Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - The Bethlehem Ruler"), who is the ultimate deliverer. The deliverance is specifically "from the Assyrian" and is contingent on their invasion—"when he cometh into our land, and when he treadeth within our borders." This emphasizes that the Messiah's intervention is a direct response to the enemy's aggression, securing His people's safety by repelling the invader and turning the tide of battle decisively.

#### Literary Devices
Micah 5:6 employs several powerful literary devices. **Symbolism** is evident in the "land of Nimrod," which transcends a mere geographical location to symbolize any powerful, oppressive empire that stands against God's people, echoing the ancient rebellion at Babel. The "sword" is a potent symbol of military might and decisive judgment. **Antithesis** or **Reversal of Fortune** is central to the verse's message: the expected aggressor (Assyria) becomes the subject of devastation, and the threatened people become the instruments of judgment, a complete inversion of the typical power dynamic. The phrase "waste the land... in the entrances thereof" uses **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, where "entrances" (gates, access points) stand for the entire fortified territory or the very heart of the enemy's power, signifying a comprehensive and deep penetration of their defenses.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Micah 5:6 powerfully articulates God's unwavering commitment to the deliverance of His people, a theme deeply woven throughout biblical theology. It portrays a divine intervention that reverses human power dynamics, where the seemingly weak are empowered to overcome the mighty. This is not merely a political victory but a spiritual one, demonstrating God's sovereignty over nations and His active role in protecting His covenant people. The ultimate source of this deliverance is the promised Messiah, whose leadership ensures not just defense but a decisive, offensive victory that extends into the enemy's own territory. This prophecy assures believers that God will always provide a means of rescue and triumph over spiritual and earthly adversaries, ultimately establishing His kingdom of peace and justice.

* [Psalm 18:17](/psalm/18-17 "Psalm 18:17 - God's Deliverance")
* [Isaiah 14:24-27](/isaiah/14-24-27 "Isaiah 14:24-27 - God's Plan Against Assyria")
* [Zechariah 9:8](/zechariah/9-8 "God's Protection")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Micah 5:6 offers profound reassurance for believers facing overwhelming challenges, whether personal, societal, or spiritual. Just as ancient Judah faced the formidable Assyrian Empire, we too encounter "Assyrians" in our lives—forces of oppression, injustice, or spiritual attack that seem insurmountable. This verse reminds us that our hope for deliverance is not in our own strength or strategies, but in the sovereign power of God, often manifested through the leadership of Christ. It encourages us to trust that God is actively involved in our struggles and will ultimately bring about victory, even turning the tide against the very sources of our distress. When we feel besieged, this prophecy calls us to steadfast faith, knowing that the "He" who delivers is faithful and powerful enough to "waste" the strongholds of our adversaries and secure our peace, even by taking the fight to the enemy's territory. It invites us to participate in His redemptive work, empowered by His Spirit, as we await His ultimate triumph.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Assyrians" or oppressive forces do you face in your life today, and how does this verse speak to your hope for deliverance?**
* **How does the idea of God empowering His people to "waste" the enemy's land challenge your understanding of divine deliverance?**
* **In what ways can you actively participate in God's work of overcoming evil, trusting in His ultimate victory?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "the land of Nimrod" in this prophecy?**

Answer: The "land of Nimrod" (H5248) is a significant ancient designation for Mesopotamia, the region where the Assyrian Empire was located. Nimrod himself is mentioned in [Genesis 10:8-12](/genesis/10-8-12 "Genesis 10:8-12 - Nimrod's Kingdom") as a mighty hunter and the founder of early kingdoms like Babel (Babylon) and Nineveh (a major Assyrian city). By referring to "the land of Nimrod," Micah broadens the scope of the prophecy beyond just the immediate historical Assyrian threat. It links the contemporary oppressor to an ancient, foundational symbol of human rebellion against God and oppressive worldly power. This suggests that the prophecy's fulfillment encompasses not only the historical defeat of Assyria but also the ultimate triumph over all forms of oppressive, God-defying empires throughout history. It elevates the specific historical conflict to a universal spiritual principle: God's people will ultimately prevail over all who stand against Him, no matter how mighty their origins or reach.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Micah 5:6 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah. The "he" who delivers is unequivocally Jesus, the "ruler in Israel" born in Bethlehem ([Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - The Bethlehem Ruler")). While the immediate context speaks of deliverance from a physical enemy (Assyria), the New Testament reveals that Christ's primary deliverance is from the spiritual enemies of sin, death, and the devil ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ's Victory over Death")). Jesus did not merely repel an earthly invasion; He invaded the very "land of Nimrod"—the domain of spiritual darkness and rebellion—through His life, death, and resurrection. By His death, He "wasted" the power of sin ([Romans 6:6](/romans/6-6 "Romans 6:6 - Our Old Self Crucified")) and disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities")). His resurrection signifies the ultimate victory, delivering His people from the "borders" of death and the grave ([1 Corinthians 15:54-57](/1_corinthians/15-54-57 "1 Corinthians 15:54-57 - Victory Over Death")). Through Christ, believers are not only delivered from spiritual bondage but are also empowered as His body, the church, to participate in His ongoing mission to "waste" the works of the devil ([1 John 3:8](/1_john/3-8 "1 John 3:8 - Destroying the Works of the Devil")) and extend His kingdom, ultimately ensuring that every opposing force will be put under His feet ([1 Corinthians 15:25](/1_corinthians/15-25 "1 Corinthians 15:25 - Christ Must Reign")).

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

Isaiah 14:25

That I will break the Assyrian in my land, and upon my mountains tread him under foot: then shall his yoke depart from off them, and his burden depart from off their shoulders.

Genesis 10:8

And Cush begat Nimrod: he began to be a mighty one in the earth.

Genesis 10:11

Out of that land went forth Asshur, and builded Nineveh, and the city Rehoboth, and Calah,

2 Kings 17:3

Against him came up Shalmaneser king of Assyria; and Hoshea became his servant, and gave him presents.

2 Kings 17:5

Then the king of Assyria came up throughout all the land, and went up to Samaria, and besieged it three years.

2 Kings 19:32

Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning the king of Assyria, He shall not come into this city, nor shoot an arrow there, nor come before it with shield, nor cast a bank against it.

2 Kings 19:35

¶ And it came to pass that night, that the angel of the LORD went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they [were] all dead corpses.