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 King James Version
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?
Context
7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams? With tens of thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my disobedience? The fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?
8 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?
9 The LORD’s voice calls to the city— and wisdom fears your name— “Listen to the rod, and he who 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?”