The biblical narrative surrounding Micah, the son of Imlah, is primarily found in 1 Kings 22 and 2 Chronicles 18. Micah, a prophet of the Lord, is known for his boldness in delivering God's truth, even when it stood in stark contrast to the messages of other prophets. The men near Micah in these accounts include King Ahab of Israel, King Jehoshaphat of Judah, and the false prophets who served Ahab.

King Ahab of Israel

Ahab, the son of Omri, was the king of Israel during Micah's prophetic ministry. Known for his idolatry and wickedness, Ahab's reign was marked by his marriage to Jezebel and the promotion of Baal worship in Israel. In 1 Kings 22, Ahab seeks to reclaim Ramoth-gilead from the Arameans and consults his prophets for guidance. Despite the unanimous favorable prophecy from his court prophets, Ahab is skeptical and summons Micah, who is known for speaking the truth of the Lord. Micah's prophecy foretells disaster for Ahab, saying, "I saw all Israel scattered on the hills like sheep without a shepherd" (1 Kings 22:17). Ahab's disregard for Micah's warning ultimately leads to his death in battle.

King Jehoshaphat of Judah

Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, is depicted as a righteous ruler who sought to follow the ways of the Lord. He forms an alliance with Ahab through marriage and agrees to join him in the battle against Aram. However, Jehoshaphat insists on seeking the counsel of a true prophet of the Lord, which leads to Micah's involvement. Despite hearing Micah's dire prophecy, Jehoshaphat proceeds with the campaign, demonstrating the complexity of his character—a man of faith who sometimes falters in his alliances.

The False Prophets

The false prophets in Ahab's court play a significant role in the narrative. They number about four hundred and unanimously predict success for Ahab's military campaign. Their leader, Zedekiah son of Kenaanah, even crafts iron horns as a symbolic gesture, declaring, "With these you will gore the Arameans until they are destroyed" (1 Kings 22:11). These prophets, however, are not speaking by the Spirit of the Lord, and their message is one of deception, intended to please Ahab rather than convey divine truth.

Zedekiah son of Kenaanah

Zedekiah is a prominent figure among the false prophets. His confrontation with Micah is marked by hostility and mockery. After Micah delivers his prophecy of Ahab's defeat, Zedekiah strikes Micah on the cheek and challenges his authority, asking, "Which way did the Spirit of the LORD go from me to speak to you?" (1 Kings 22:24). Zedekiah's actions exemplify the resistance faced by true prophets in a culture dominated by falsehood and idolatry.

Micah's Faithfulness

Micah's role in this narrative highlights the courage required to stand for God's truth in the face of overwhelming opposition. Despite being imprisoned and fed only bread and water for his prophecy (1 Kings 22:27), Micah remains steadfast, declaring, "If you ever return safely, the LORD has not spoken through me" (1 Kings 22:28). His unwavering commitment to God's message serves as a testament to the power and importance of prophetic truth in the biblical tradition.

The account of Micah and the men near him underscores the tension between true and false prophecy, the consequences of ignoring divine warnings, and the enduring call for faithfulness to God's word.