What does Micah 6:8 mean?
The prophet Micah lived in a time when Israel's worship was full of rituals but lacked justice and real devotion. In the verses just before this one, the people ask what offering would satisfy God: burnt offerings, thousands of rams, even their firstborn? Micah answers that God has already shown them what is good. He wants three things. "Do justly" means treat others fairly and stand up for what is right. "Love mercy" means delight in showing kindness and loyal love. "Walk humbly with thy God" means live in close, humble relationship with him every day. Faith, for Micah, is shown in everyday character, not empty ceremony.
Micah 6:8 in the World English Bible
He has shown you, O man, what is good. What does the LORD require of you, but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?
Context
7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
9 The LORD’s voice crieth unto the city, and the man of wisdom shall see thy name: hear ye the rod, and who hath appointed it.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Micah 6:8 mean?
The prophet Micah lived in a time when Israel's worship was full of rituals but lacked justice and real devotion. In the verses just before this one, the people ask what offering would satisfy God: burnt offerings, thousands of rams, even their firstborn? Micah answers that God has already shown them what is good. He wants three things. "Do justly" means treat others fairly and stand up for what is right. "Love mercy" means delight in showing kindness and loyal love. "Walk humbly with thy God" means live in close, humble relationship with him every day. Faith, for Micah, is shown in everyday character, not empty ceremony.
What does Micah 6:8 say in the KJV?
Micah 6:8 (KJV) reads: “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”