Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Micah - Chapter 1 - Verse 8

1:8
Therefore I will wail and howl, I will go stripped and naked: I will make a wailing like the dragons, and mourning as the owls.

Meaning

The verse "Therefore I will wail and howl, I will go stripped and naked: I will make a wailing like the dragons, and mourning as the owls," reflects the deep anguish and sorrow of the speaker. The imagery of wailing and howling, as well as being stripped and naked, conveys a sense of despair and vulnerability. The comparison to dragons and owls further emphasizes the intensity of the mourning, as these are animals often associated with darkness, mourning, and desolation in biblical literature.

It is important to note that this verse comes from a section of the Bible that is often poetic and symbolic in nature, with the speaker expressing their emotions and experiences through vivid and dramatic language. In this context, the wailing and mourning described can be seen as a metaphor for the speaker's intense grief and suffering. By going stripped and naked, the speaker is exposing their innermost feelings and laying bare their pain before God.

Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the depth of human suffering and the need for comfort and solace in times of distress. It encourages readers to express their emotions honestly and openly, even when facing the darkest of circumstances, and to seek solace and support from God in their time of need.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah expresses his deep sorrow and anguish over the judgment that God is bringing upon the people of Israel. The imagery used here is powerful and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the prophet's intense emotions. The mention of wailing, howling, and going stripped and naked symbolizes the extreme distress and humiliation that Isaiah feels. The comparison to dragons and owls suggests a sense of desolation and loneliness. This verse highlights the prophet's willingness to mourn openly and passionately, demonstrating his deep connection to the people and his commitment to delivering God's message, no matter how difficult it may be. Through this verse, we see the human side of Isaiah as he grapples with the weight of his calling and the consequences of the people's disobedience.

American Standard Version

For this will I lament and wail; I will go stripped and naked; I will make a wailing like the jackals, and a lamentation like the ostriches.
Previous VerseNext Verse