Micah 7:2

KJV

The good [man] is perished out of the earth: and [there is] none upright among men: they all lie in wait for blood; they hunt every man his brother with a net.

KJV (with Strong's)

The good {H2623} man is perished {H6} out of the earth {H776}: and there is none upright {H3477} among men {H120}: they all lie in wait {H693} for blood {H1818}; they hunt {H6679} every man {H376} his brother {H251} with a net {H2764}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The godly have been destroyed from the land, there is no one upright among humankind. They all lie in wait for blood, each hunts his brother with a net.

Berean Standard Bible

The godly man has perished from the earth; there is no one upright among men. They all lie in wait for blood; they hunt one another with a net.

American Standard Version

The godly man is perished out of the earth, and there is none upright among men: they all lie in wait for blood; they hunt every man his brother with a net.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Micah 7:2 serves as a poignant lament from the prophet, articulating the profound moral decay and pervasive corruption that had engulfed Judah during his ministry. The verse paints a stark and desolate portrait of a society where righteousness and integrity have vanished, replaced by a predatory culture of deceit, violence, and mutual exploitation, even among those who should be kin. It underscores the prophet's deep anguish over the spiritual and ethical collapse of his own people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Micah 7:2 is situated within a deeply personal and despairing lament (Micah 7:1-6) that follows Micah's scathing denunciations of Judah's sins in the preceding chapters (Micah 1-6). While earlier sections deliver God's judgment through prophetic oracles, this chapter shifts to the prophet's own voice, expressing his profound sorrow and isolation. The lament in [Micah 7:1-6](/micah/7-1-6 "Micah's Lament Over Israel's Corruption") describes the complete absence of integrity and the prevalence of treachery, setting the stage for the specific accusations in verse 2. This personal anguish highlights the severity of the moral collapse, as Micah feels like a solitary righteous voice in a land utterly devoid of godliness. The passage serves as a stark contrast to the hope of restoration and divine intervention that eventually surfaces in [Micah 7:7-20](/micah/7-7-20 "Micah's Hope and God's Compassion"), making the initial lament all the more powerful.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Micah prophesied in Judah during the late 8th century BC, spanning the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. This was a tumultuous period characterized by rampant social injustice, political instability, and widespread spiritual apostasy. The wealthy and powerful exploited the poor, judges were bribed, and religious leaders misled the people into idolatry and false worship. The looming threat of the Assyrian Empire, which had already decimated the Northern Kingdom of Israel, cast a long shadow over Judah, yet the people largely failed to heed God's warnings or repent. Micah's lament in [Micah 7:2](/micah/7-2 "Micah 7:2 - The Moral Decay of Judah") reflects this specific historical reality, where covenant faithfulness had eroded, and the foundational principles of justice and righteousness, central to Israel's identity, were systematically violated by all strata of society.

* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully contributes to several key themes found throughout Micah's prophecy and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the **Pervasive Moral Collapse** of a society that has abandoned God's standards. The lament that "the good [man] is perished out of the earth" and "none upright among men" signifies a complete societal breakdown where honesty, integrity, and godliness are virtually absent. This reflects humanity's fallen state and its inherent tendency towards sin when left to its own devices, a theme echoed in [Psalm 14:1-3](/psalms/14-1-3 "The Fool Says There Is No God"). Secondly, the vivid imagery of "they all lie in wait for blood; they hunt every man his brother with a net" emphasizes **Betrayal and Predation**. This portrays a society steeped in treachery and violence, where individuals, even within their own communities, actively seek to harm and exploit one another through cunning and deceit, rather than open conflict. This predatory behavior underscores the breakdown of communal trust and the perversion of human relationships. Finally, the verse encapsulates the **Prophetic Despair** of a faithful servant of God observing such widespread wickedness. Micah's profound sorrow over the spiritual and ethical decline of his people is palpable, reflecting the anguish of prophets like Jeremiah, who similarly lamented the absence of a righteous person in [Jeremiah 5:1](/jeremiah/5-1 "Jeremiah's Search for an Upright Man in Jerusalem").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **good (Hebrew, _châçîyd'_):** From H2623, this word describes someone who is "pious," "godly," "holy," or "merciful." It denotes a person characterized by _hesed_, God's covenant loyalty and steadfast love, which is then reflected in their own faithful and ethical conduct towards God and others. Its "perishing" indicates not merely physical death, but the tragic disappearance of such character from the societal landscape, signifying a profound spiritual and moral void.
* **upright (Hebrew, _yâshâr'_):** From H3477, this term means "straight," "just," or "righteous." It refers to moral integrity, honesty, and adherence to what is right and equitable. The declaration that "none upright among men" emphasizes the total absence of moral rectitude and fairness in the community, indicating a systemic corruption where ethical standards have been completely abandoned.
* **net (Hebrew, _chêrem'_):** From H2764, this word refers to a physical net used for trapping, but also carries the connotation of a "doomed object" or "utter destruction." In this context, it functions as a powerful **metaphor** for cunning, deceitful, and entrapping schemes. The use of a "net" implies that the predatory actions are not open conflict but involve stealth, trickery, and the deliberate ensnaring of victims, often those who are vulnerable or unsuspecting.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The good [man] is perished out of the earth:"** This opening clause sets the tone of lament and despair. It signifies a complete absence of righteous, godly, and covenant-keeping individuals from the land. The word "perished" (H6, _ʼâbad_) suggests not just death, but a vanishing, a loss, or a destruction of the very essence of goodness. It implies that the moral fabric of society has disintegrated to such an extent that those who embody integrity and faithfulness are no longer to be found.
* **"and [there is] none upright among men:"** This clause reinforces the previous statement, using a synonymous parallel to emphasize the pervasive lack of moral integrity. "Upright" (H3477, _yâshâr_) refers to those who are just, honest, and walk in accordance with God's ways. The phrase asserts that this quality is entirely absent among the general populace ("among men," H120, _ʼâdâm_), indicating a universal moral failing within Judah.
* **"they all lie in wait for blood;"** This phrase shifts from absence of good to active malevolence. "Lie in wait" (H693, _ʼârab_) suggests lurking, ambushing, or plotting with malicious intent. "For blood" (H1818, _dâm_) signifies a murderous or violent purpose, indicating that the people are not merely morally bankrupt but actively seeking to harm, exploit, or even kill others for personal gain. This points to a society consumed by greed and violence.
* **"they hunt every man his brother with a net."** This climactic clause uses a vivid **metaphor** to illustrate the predatory nature of human relationships. "Hunt" (H6679, _tsûwd_) implies pursuing prey, while "every man his brother" (H376, _ʼîysh_... H251, _ʼâch_) highlights the shocking betrayal within the community – people are preying on those who should be their closest kin or fellow citizens. The "net" (H2764, _chêrem_) symbolizes the cunning, deceitful, and entrapping methods used, emphasizing that exploitation is not direct confrontation but insidious manipulation and betrayal.

#### Literary Devices
Micah 7:2 is rich with literary devices that amplify its message of despair and moral collapse. The dominant device is **Lament**, which pervades the entire passage (Micah 7:1-6), expressing the prophet's profound sorrow and anguish over the state of his people. The opening declaration, "The good [man] is perished out of the earth," employs **Hyperbole** to emphasize the extreme and widespread nature of the moral decay; while perhaps not literally *every* good person was gone, the statement conveys the overwhelming sense that righteousness was virtually non-existent. The most striking device is **Metaphor** and **Simile**, particularly in the phrases "they all lie in wait for blood" and "they hunt every man his brother with a net." These vivid images liken the people to predatory animals, lurking and ambushing their victims, and using cunning traps (the "net") to ensnare even their own kin. This animalistic imagery powerfully conveys the dehumanizing effect of sin and the complete breakdown of social trust. The phrase "every man his brother" also highlights **Irony** and **Pathos**, as those who should be bound by familial or communal ties are instead engaged in betrayal and exploitation, intensifying the tragedy of the situation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Micah 7:2 provides a stark biblical commentary on the depth of human depravity when left to its own devices, a theme consistently woven throughout Scripture. It illustrates the devastating consequences of abandoning God's covenant and moral law, leading to a society characterized by self-interest, violence, and the systematic exploitation of others. The prophet's lament underscores the biblical truth that true righteousness and justice do not naturally flourish in fallen humanity but are gifts and requirements from a holy God. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of humanity's inherent need for divine intervention and redemption, as no amount of human effort can truly rectify such pervasive moral corruption. It points to the universal reality that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," necessitating a radical transformation that only God can provide.

* [Jeremiah 5:1](/jeremiah/5-1 "Jeremiah's Search for a Righteous Man in Jerusalem")
* [Psalm 14:1-3](/psalms/14-1-3 "The Fool Says There Is No God")
* [Romans 3:10-18](/romans/3-10-18 "No One Is Righteous")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Micah 7:2 serves as a timeless mirror, challenging us to honestly examine the moral landscape of our own societies and, more intimately, the inclinations of our own hearts. In a world that often prioritizes self-advancement, material gain, and personal comfort, the prophet's lament against a society where "the good [man] is perished" resonates deeply. It calls us to consider whether integrity, compassion, and justice are truly valued and practiced, or if subtle (or not-so-subtle) forms of "lying in wait for blood" and "hunting... with a net" manifest in our interactions, our business practices, or our political discourse. For believers, this verse is a sobering reminder of the call to be salt and light in a decaying world, to embody the very "goodness" (chasid) and "uprightness" (yashar) that Micah found so conspicuously absent. It compels us to actively resist the pervasive currents of self-interest and exploitation, to cultivate genuine love for our neighbor, and to stand firm in righteousness, even when surrounded by corruption. Ultimately, it drives us to humble dependence on God's grace, acknowledging our own capacity for fallenness and seeking His transformative power to live lives that reflect His character.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might the "perishing of the good" manifest in our contemporary society or even within our own communities?**
* **How do the metaphors of "lying in wait for blood" and "hunting... with a net" challenge us to examine our own motives and methods in relationships, business, or competition?**
* **What practical steps can we take to embody "goodness" and "uprightness" in a world that often seems to devalue these qualities?**
* **How does this verse deepen our appreciation for the necessity of God's grace and the redemptive work of Christ in addressing human depravity?**

### FAQ

**Why does Micah use such strong language like "perished" and "hunt... with a net"?**

Answer: Micah employs such vivid and strong language to convey the extreme depth and pervasiveness of Judah's moral corruption. The word "perished" (H6, _ʼâbad_) suggests a complete disappearance or destruction of goodness, not just a decline. It underscores the prophet's despair at the utter absence of integrity. The imagery of "lying in wait for blood" and "hunting... with a net" uses powerful **metaphors** to depict the people as predatory animals, preying on each other with cunning and malice. This language is designed to shock and to highlight the horrific reality of betrayal and exploitation even among those who should be "brothers." It emphasizes that the sin is not just passive unrighteousness but active, insidious malevolence, reflecting the profound breakdown of covenant relationships and social trust.

**Is there any hope in Micah's prophecy, given this bleak verse?**

Answer: While [Micah 7:2](/micah/7-2 "Micah 7:2 - The Moral Decay of Judah") presents a profoundly bleak picture of human depravity, it is crucial to understand it within the broader context of the book of Micah. The prophet's lament in [Micah 7:1-6](/micah/7-1-6 "Micah's Lament Over Israel's Corruption") is immediately followed by a powerful declaration of hope and trust in God's faithfulness, beginning in [Micah 7:7](/micah/7-7 "Micah's Hope in God"). Micah declares, "But as for me, I will look to the Lord; I will wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me." The book concludes with a magnificent affirmation of God's incomparable character, His steadfast love, and His willingness to pardon sin and delight in mercy ([Micah 7:18-20](/micah/7-18-20 "God's Mercy and Faithfulness")). Thus, the lament serves to highlight the desperate need for God's intervention, making His subsequent promise of restoration and forgiveness all the more glorious.

**How does this verse relate to the concept of "justice" in the Bible?**

Answer: Micah 7:2 directly contrasts with the biblical concept of justice. Throughout the Old Testament, particularly in the prophetic books, God repeatedly calls His people to practice _mishpat_ (justice) and _tsedeq_ (righteousness). These terms encompass fair treatment, upholding the rights of the vulnerable, and maintaining equitable relationships within society. Micah himself frequently condemns the lack of justice, such as in [Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "What the Lord Requires"), where he famously asks, "And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." [Micah 7:2](/micah/7-2 "Micah 7:2 - The Moral Decay of Judah") describes the complete antithesis of this divine expectation: a society where the "good" and "upright" are absent, and people actively "hunt" their "brother" for "blood." This vivid portrayal underscores the profound injustice and moral perversion that characterized Judah, demonstrating their utter failure to live up to God's righteous standards and the devastating consequences that follow.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Micah 7:2, with its stark depiction of a world utterly devoid of goodness and integrity, where humanity preys upon itself, powerfully underscores the profound necessity of Christ. The prophet's lament, "The good [man] is perished out of the earth: and [there is] none upright among men," finds its ultimate theological echo in the New Testament's declaration of universal human sinfulness, as articulated by Paul in [Romans 3:10-12](/romans/3-10-12 "No One Is Righteous"). This verse highlights the desperate state of humanity, incapable of producing true righteousness on its own. It is into this fallen world, where no "good man" could be found to satisfy God's perfect standard, that Jesus Christ came. He is the perfectly "good" and "upright" man, the only one who lived a life of flawless obedience and integrity, fulfilling all righteousness where humanity had utterly failed ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Christ's Obedience to Death")). Furthermore, the predatory nature described in Micah 7:2—the "lying in wait for blood" and "hunting... with a net"—foreshadows the spiritual warfare and the pervasive evil that Christ came to overcome. Jesus, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, not only to atone for the "blood" shed by humanity's sin but also to break the power of the "net" of sin and death that entrapped mankind. Through His sacrifice and resurrection, He provides the only means for fallen humanity to be made truly "good" and "upright" in God's sight, offering a new covenant where God's Spirit enables believers to live lives of integrity, reflecting the very righteousness that Micah longed to see ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "Christ Became Sin for Us")). Thus, Micah's lament, while bleak, ultimately points to the glorious and essential work of Christ as the sole source of true human goodness and redemption.

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

Psalms 12:1

¶ To the chief Musician upon Sheminith, A Psalm of David. Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.

Isaiah 57:1

¶ The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth [it] to heart: and merciful men [are] taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil [to come].

Psalms 14:1

¶ To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David. The fool hath said in his heart, [There is] no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, [there is] none that doeth good.

Psalms 14:3

They are all gone aside, they are [all] together become filthy: [there is] none that doeth good, no, not one.

Isaiah 59:7

Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts [are] thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction [are] in their paths.

Jeremiah 5:26

For among my people are found wicked [men]: they lay wait, as he that setteth snares; they set a trap, they catch men.

Proverbs 1:11

If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: