Micah 2:12
I will surely assemble, O Jacob, all of thee; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as the sheep of Bozrah, as the flock in the midst of their fold: they shall make great noise by reason of the multitude of men.
Micah 2:12 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Micah contains a powerful message of hope and restoration for the nation of Israel. The prophet Micah speaks on behalf of God, promising to gather and assemble the people of Jacob and the remnant of Israel. This gathering is compared to the sheep of Bozrah, a city known for its large flocks of sheep, and the image of a flock in the midst of their fold. This symbolizes the protection, unity, and care that God will provide for His people. The mention of making great noise by reason of the multitude of men indicates a sense of joy and celebration that will come with the gathering of the people. This verse reassures the Israelites of God's faithfulness and his promise to bring them together despite any hardships they may have faced. It serves as a reminder of God's love and commitment to his chosen people, offering them hope for a future of unity and restoration.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, there is a beautiful image of God's promise to gather and protect His people, using the metaphor of sheep in the town of Bozrah, known for its abundance of sheep. The act of assembling Jacob and gathering Israel showcases God's unwavering commitment to his chosen people, ensuring that all are accounted for and protected. The reference to the sheep of Bozrah brings to mind the idea of a shepherd protecting his flock, guiding them and keeping them safe. This imagery highlights God's role as a loving and protective shepherd to his people, guiding them through life's challenges and trials. The mention of a great noise due to the multitude of men emphasizes the strength and unity that comes from being part of God's chosen flock. This verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and protection over his people, showcasing his love and care for each individual within the community of believers.
Micah 2:12 in other translations
American Standard Version
I will surely assemble, O Jacob, all of thee; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as the sheep of Bozrah, as a flock in the midst of their pasture; they shall make great noise by reason of [the multitude of] men.
World English Bible
I will surely assemble, Jacob, all of you; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as the sheep of Bozrah, as a flock in the midst of their pasture; they will swarm with people.
Douay-Rheims
I will assemble and gather together all of thee, O Jacob: I will bring together the remnant of Israel, I will put them together as a flock in the fold, as sheep in the midst of the sheepcotes, they shall make a tumult by reason of the multitude of men.
Geneva Bible (1599)
I will surely gather thee wholy, O Iaakob: I will surely gather the remnant of Israel: I will put them together as the sheepe of Bozrah, euen as the flocke in the mids of their folde: the cities shall be full of brute of the men.