SUMMARY
Political and religious leaders prey upon the people, and will be judged accordingly.
ANALYSIS
In biting poetic language, the rulers of God’s people are described as hating good and loving evil. To underscore their perfidy and callousness, they are described as eating the flesh of the people in their charge. The figurative language is graphic, as Micah describes the leaders removing skin, chopping up meat, and breaking bones to extract marrow for the stew pot. After this merciless cannibalism – what else would rulers who take advantage of the people they govern be called? – the leaders will meet with stony silence from God, who will hide from their requests.Â
After an interlude specifically focused on corrupt prophets, Micah gives a summation of all kinds of corrupt leaders. The judges accept bribes, the priests [only] teach for pay, and the prophets’ messages can be purchased. And yet, in the midst of corruption on every level and in every kind of leadership, the leaders assure the people that what they do doesn’t matter, because God is with them. JesusJesus is the Messiah whose life, death, and resurrection are God's saving act for humanity. More, however, pronounces woes on the rich and powerful in a time of economic and political upheaval (LukeThe "beloved physician" and companion of Paul. More 6:24-26). Just because God is among the people does not mean that abuse and hypocrisy will be tolerated. On the contrary, God’s presence among the people ensures that injustice will be noticed and punished.
