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Micah 6:5

O my people, remember now what Balak king of Moab consulted, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him from Shittim unto Gilgal; that ye may know the righteousness of the LORD.

Micah 6:5 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the speaker is urging the people to remember the events involving Balak, the king of Moab, and Balaam, the son of Beor. Balak sought Balaam's help in cursing the Israelites, who were seen as a threat to his kingdom. However, Balaam, guided by the righteousness of the LORD, was unable to curse the Israelites and instead ended up blessing them. The speaker is reminding the people of this historical event to emphasize the point that the righteousness of the LORD always prevails. It serves as a lesson for the listeners to trust in God's plan and to have faith that righteousness will ultimately triumph. By recalling this story, the people are being encouraged to align themselves with the righteousness of the LORD and to follow His commands. This verse highlights the power of God's righteousness and the importance of staying faithful to His ways.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Micah, the prophet calls upon the people of Israel to remember the historical event involving Balak, the king of Moab, and Balaam, the son of Beor. Balak had sought Balaam's help in cursing the Israelites, but God intervened and Balaam blessed the people instead. By recalling this incident, the prophet highlights the righteousness of the Lord in protecting and blessing His people. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes God's sovereignty over earthly powers and His faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. The word "remember" in this context invites the readers to reflect on God's past actions and to trust in His continued guidance and provision. Through this reflection on the past, the people are encouraged to seek righteousness and obedience to the Lord. The reference to Shittim and Gilgal serves as a reminder of the journey of the Israelites from the wilderness to the Promised Land, emphasizing God's faithfulness throughout their history.

Micah 6:5 in other translations

American Standard Version

O my people, remember now what Balak king of Moab devised, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him; [remember] from Shittim unto Gilgal, that ye may know the righteous acts of Jehovah.

World English Bible

My people, remember now what Balak king of Moab devised, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him from Shittim to Gilgal, that you may know the righteous acts of Yahweh.”

Douay-Rheims

O my people, remember, I pray thee, what Balach, the king of Moab, purposed: and what Balaam, the son of Beor, answered him, from Setim to Galgal, that thou mightest know the justice of the Lord.

Geneva Bible (1599)

O my people, remember nowe what Balak King of Moab had deuised, and what Balaam the sonne of Beor answered him, from Shittim vnto Gilgal, that ye may knowe the righteousnes of the Lord.