Judges 17:2

said to his mother, "The eleven hundred shekels of silver that were taken from you and about which I heard you utter a curse--I have the silver here with me; I took it." Then his mother said, "Blessed be my son by the LORD!"

Study Bible

“He said to his mother”
This phrase introduces us to a familial relationship that is central to the narrative. The Hebrew word for "mother" is "אֵם" (em), which signifies not only a biological relationship but also a position of authority and respect within the family structure. In ancient Israelite culture, the family was the primary social unit, and the mother played a crucial role in the spiritual and moral upbringing of her children. This interaction sets the stage for a discussion on familial obligations and the moral decay evident in the period of the Judges.

“The eleven hundred shekels of silver”
The mention of "eleven hundred shekels of silver" is significant both economically and symbolically. In the ancient Near East, silver was a common medium of exchange, and this amount represents a substantial sum, indicating wealth. The Hebrew term for "shekel" is "שֶׁקֶל" (shekel), a standard unit of weight. This large sum suggests the gravity of the situation and the potential for greed and corruption, themes prevalent in the Book of Judges.

“that were taken from you”
The phrase indicates a theft, a violation of the commandment "You shall not steal" (Exodus 20:15). The Hebrew root "גָּנַב" (ganav) means to steal or take by stealth. This act of theft within a family highlights the moral decline during the time of the Judges, where "everyone did what was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25). It reflects a breakdown of trust and integrity, even within the closest of relationships.

“and about which I heard you utter a curse”
The act of uttering a curse in response to the theft underscores the seriousness of the offense. In ancient Israel, words held significant power, and a curse was believed to invoke divine judgment. The Hebrew word for "curse" is "אָלָה" (alah), which implies an oath or imprecation. This reflects the belief in the power of spoken words and the fear of divine retribution, which was a common aspect of the Israelite faith.

“I have the silver with me; I took it.”
This confession is pivotal, revealing the son's guilt and the internal conflict he faces. The Hebrew verb "לָקַח" (laqach) means to take or seize, indicating a deliberate action. This admission of guilt is a moment of truth, offering a chance for repentance and restoration. It also highlights the tension between sin and the opportunity for redemption, a recurring theme in the biblical narrative.

“Then his mother said, ‘The LORD bless you, my son!’”
The mother's response is unexpected, as she pronounces a blessing rather than expressing anger or disappointment. The Hebrew word for "bless" is "בָּרַךְ" (barak), which means to kneel or to bless. This blessing, invoking the name of "The LORD" (YHWH), suggests a desire for divine favor and forgiveness. It reflects the hope for reconciliation and the transformative power of grace, even in the midst of wrongdoing. This response can be seen as a reflection of the unconditional love and mercy that God extends to His people, despite their failings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Micah
A man from the hill country of Ephraim who confesses to stealing silver from his mother.

2. Micah's Mother
The woman who curses the thief of her silver, not knowing it was her son, and later blesses him upon his confession.

3. The Hill Country of Ephraim
The region where Micah and his mother reside, significant in the tribal allotments of Israel.

4. The Silver
Eleven hundred shekels of silver, a substantial amount, which Micah confesses to stealing and returning.

5. The Curse and Blessing
The mother's initial curse upon the thief and subsequent blessing upon her son highlight the power of words and intentions in Hebrew culture.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Confession
Micah's confession to his mother demonstrates the biblical principle of confessing sins to restore relationships and receive forgiveness.

The Power of Words
The mother's curse and subsequent blessing illustrate the significant impact of our words, both positive and negative, on others.

Restitution and Repentance
Returning the stolen silver is an act of restitution, showing that true repentance involves making amends for wrongs done.

Family Dynamics and Faith
The interaction between Micah and his mother highlights the complexities of family relationships and the role of faith in resolving conflicts.

The Role of Blessings and Curses
This passage reminds us of the spiritual weight of blessings and curses, urging us to be mindful of how we use our words.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Micah's confession and his mother's response teach us about the importance of honesty in family relationships?

2. How can we apply the principle of restitution in our own lives when we have wronged someone?

3. In what ways do our words, like the curse and blessing in this passage, impact those around us, and how can we ensure our words are life-giving?

4. How does this account illustrate the biblical principle of honoring one's parents, and what steps can we take to better honor our own parents?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the power of confession and forgiveness. How did it change your relationship with the person involved?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:12
The commandment to honor one's parents is relevant here, as Micah's actions initially dishonor his mother.

Proverbs 28:13
This verse speaks to the importance of confessing and renouncing sin, which Micah does by admitting his theft.

James 5:16
The New Testament encourages confession of sins to one another, which aligns with Micah's confession to his mother.

Matthew 15:4-6
Jesus discusses honoring parents, which can be contrasted with Micah's initial actions.

Ephesians 4:28
This verse encourages those who have stolen to steal no longer, but to work and share with those in need, a principle Micah begins to follow by returning the silver.