Micah 6:10

Can I forget any longer, O house of the wicked, the treasures of wickedness and the short ephah, which is accursed?

Study Bible

Am I still to forget
This phrase reflects God's rhetorical questioning, emphasizing His omniscience and justice. The Hebrew root for "forget" is "שָׁכַח" (shakach), which implies a deliberate overlooking or ignoring. In the context of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, this question underscores God's unwillingness to ignore sin and injustice. It serves as a reminder that God is both merciful and just, and His patience has limits when it comes to persistent wickedness.

any wickedness
The term "wickedness" is derived from the Hebrew word "רֶשַׁע" (resha), which encompasses a broad range of moral and ethical wrongdoings. In the prophetic literature, wickedness often refers to social injustices, idolatry, and covenant unfaithfulness. This highlights the moral decay present in Israel at the time, where societal norms had strayed far from God's commandments. The emphasis on "any" wickedness suggests the pervasive nature of sin that God is addressing.

in the house of the wicked
The "house of the wicked" can be understood both literally and metaphorically. Literally, it refers to the households or establishments where sinful practices are perpetuated. Metaphorically, it represents the broader societal structures that enable and sustain wickedness. The Hebrew word for "house" is "בַּיִת" (bayit), which can also signify a dynasty or lineage, indicating that wickedness has become entrenched in the culture and leadership of the people.

or the short ephah
An "ephah" is a unit of measure used in ancient Israel, roughly equivalent to about 22 liters or 5.8 gallons. The "short ephah" refers to dishonest business practices, specifically the use of false measures to cheat others. This practice is condemned in the Torah (Leviticus 19:35-36; Deuteronomy 25:13-16) and is a symbol of economic injustice. The Hebrew word "אֵיפָה" (ephah) here serves as a tangible example of the corruption that God is addressing through the prophet Micah.

which is accursed
The term "accursed" comes from the Hebrew "זָעַם" (za'am), meaning to be denounced or abhorred. This word conveys God's strong disapproval and the inevitable consequences of such actions. In the biblical context, being accursed often implies being set apart for destruction or divine judgment. This serves as a warning that God's holiness cannot coexist with deceit and injustice, and such practices bring about divine wrath.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Micah
A prophet in the 8th century BC, Micah was a contemporary of Isaiah and Hosea. He prophesied during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. His messages often focused on social justice and the need for true worship.

2. The House of Israel
Often referred to as the "wicked house" in prophetic literature, this term represents the people of Israel who have turned away from God's commandments, engaging in practices that are unjust and idolatrous.

3. Ill-gotten Treasures
This refers to wealth accumulated through dishonest means, such as deceitful business practices, exploitation, and corruption, which were prevalent in Israel at the time.

4. Short Ephah
An ephah is a unit of measure used in ancient Israel. A "short ephah" indicates the use of false measures in trade, symbolizing dishonesty and greed.

5. Accursed Practices
These are actions that go against God's laws and bring about divine judgment. In this context, it refers to the deceitful practices in commerce and the resulting social injustice.

Teaching Points

Integrity in Business
As Christians, we are called to conduct our business affairs with honesty and integrity. Dishonest practices not only harm others but also dishonor God.

God's Justice
God is deeply concerned with justice and righteousness. He will not overlook the exploitation and oppression of the vulnerable.

Repentance and Restoration
The call to repentance is central. We must turn away from dishonest practices and seek to restore what has been wrongfully taken.

The Consequences of Sin
Sin, especially in the form of social injustice, has consequences. It leads to God's judgment and the breakdown of community trust.

Living as a Witness
Our actions in business and daily life should reflect our faith and serve as a witness to God's righteousness and justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of "ill-gotten treasures" apply to modern-day business practices, and what steps can we take to ensure our dealings are honest?

2. In what ways can the church address issues of social injustice and support those who are victims of dishonest practices?

3. Reflect on a time when you were tempted to use "short measures" in your life. How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience?

4. How can we, as individuals and as a community, promote integrity and justice in our workplaces and communities?

5. What are some practical ways to seek repentance and restoration if we have been involved in dishonest practices, either knowingly or unknowingly?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 11:1
This verse speaks against dishonest scales, emphasizing that God detests deceitful practices in business.

Amos 8:5
Amos also condemns the use of dishonest measures, highlighting the exploitation of the poor and the needy.

Leviticus 19:35-36
These verses command the Israelites to use honest scales and measures, underscoring the importance of integrity in business dealings.