Micah 6:8

“He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?”

3 things: to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God

To do justly (2 Hebrew words: strongs 6213 + 4941)

• 6213 (asah): To do, to make, to accomplish, to perform, to act.
  • In the ancient Near Eastern context, the concept of “doing” or “making” was integral to both divine and human activities. The Hebrew culture placed a strong emphasis on action and obedience, reflecting a worldview where faith was demonstrated through deeds. The verb “asah” is frequently used in covenantal contexts, where the Israelites were called to “do” or “perform” the commandments of God as a sign of their faithfulness and commitment to the covenant.

• 4941 (mishpat): a verdict, a sentence, formal decree, divine law, penalty, justice, privilege, style
  • In ancient Israel, “mishpat” was central to the community’s understanding of justice and righteousness. The concept was deeply embedded in the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God was seen as the ultimate judge. The administration of “mishpat” was crucial for maintaining social order and ensuring that the rights of individuals, especially the vulnerable, were protected. The Torah, or Law, provided detailed instructions on how “mishpat” was to be carried out, emphasizing fairness, impartiality, and the protection of the innocent.

Love mercy (2 Hebrew words: strongs 160 +2617)

• 160 (ahabah): Love, affection.
  • In ancient Hebrew culture, love was not merely an emotion but a commitment that involved loyalty, faithfulness, and action. The concept of love in the Hebrew Bible is deeply tied to covenant relationships, whether between God and His people or between individuals. Love was seen as a binding force that upheld social and familial structures, and it was often expressed through actions and obedience to God’s commandments.

• 2617 (checed): Lovingkindness, mercy, steadfast love, loyalty, faithfulness, goodness
  • In the ancient Near Eastern context, “checed” was a significant concept in covenantal relationships. Covenants were binding agreements that required loyalty and faithfulness from both parties. “Checed” was the expected behavior within these relationships, emphasizing steadfast love and mercy. In Israel’s history, God’s “checed” was seen in His unwavering commitment to His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the nation of Israel, despite their frequent unfaithfulness.

Walk humbly with your God (4 Hebrew words: strongs 6800 + 1980 + 5973 + 430)

• 6800 (tsana): To be humble, to be modest
  • In ancient Israelite culture, humility was a highly regarded virtue, often associated with wisdom and righteousness. The concept of humility was deeply embedded in the religious and social fabric of the community, reflecting a person’s relationship with God and others. Humility was seen as essential for maintaining harmony and justice within the community and was often contrasted with pride, which was viewed as a vice leading to downfall and destruction.

• 1980 (halak): To go, walk, come, proceed, move
  • In ancient Hebrew culture, walking was the primary mode of transportation and a common daily activity. The concept of “walking” was deeply embedded in the Hebrew mindset, symbolizing one’s journey through life and one’s relationship with God. Walking in the ways of the Lord was a central theme in the Hebrew Scriptures, reflecting obedience, faithfulness, and a righteous lifestyle.

• 5973 (im): With, together with, among
  • In ancient Hebrew culture, the concept of being “with” someone carried significant weight. It implied not only physical presence but also support, alliance, and shared purpose. This preposition is frequently used in covenantal contexts, where God’s presence with His people is a central theme. The idea of God being “with” His people is a recurring assurance of His guidance, protection, and blessing.

• 430 (Elohim): God, gods, divine beings, judges. In this verse it is used in a personal context, your God.
  • In the ancient Near Eastern context, the concept of a pantheon of gods was common, and the use of a plural form for deity was not unusual. However, the Hebrew Bible uniquely uses Elohim to affirm the monotheistic belief in one God who is supreme over all. The plural form may reflect the fullness of God’s nature and His attributes. The use of Elohim in the Hebrew Scriptures underscores the distinctiveness of Israel’s faith in one God who is both transcendent and immanent.