Micah 2:1-13

Following this the prophet states the cause of the imminent judgment. The sin consists in devising evil at night and practicing it in the morning, and the abuse of authority. Covetousness, expressing itself in oppression, was the peculiar sin of the rulers. Against this Jehovah proceeds in just retribution, "I devise an evil."

The prophet then describes the mockery of observers who would imitate their sorrow, and finally declares that they will be utterly dispossessed. In the midst of his prophesying Micah was interrupted by false prophets, who charged him not to prophesy, protesting against his message, basing their objection to his announcement of judgment on the fact of God's goodness. To this objection Micah, in the name of Jehovah, answers that the changed attitude of His people toward Him accounts for Jehovah's change toward them. His people had risen up as an enemy.

He then charged the people to depart, declaring that such teaching could not give them rest, and then breaking out in indignant satire against the people who allowed themselves to be misled by false prophets.

This first message uttered in the hearing of the nations concerning the chosen people, closes with words spoken directly to Jacob. Its burden is evidently forthcoming deliverances, but as to detail it is undefined.