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Book of Micah - Chapter 7 - Verse 16

7:16
The nations shall see and be confounded at all their might: they shall lay their hand upon their mouth, their ears shall be deaf.

Meaning

This verse, found in the book of Micah, speaks about the awe-inspiring power of God and the impact it has on the nations. When the nations witness the might and sovereignty of God, they are left speechless and confounded. The phrase "they shall lay their hand upon their mouth" signifies a sense of silence and humility before God's power. The nations are overwhelmed to the point where they are unable to speak or object. The following phrase, "their ears shall be deaf", further emphasizes their inability to comprehend or argue against the power of God. This verse serves as a reminder of the unmatched strength and authority of God, which leaves even the most powerful nations in awe and silence. It conveys the message that no matter how mighty or influential a nation may be, they are no match for the omnipotence of God, whose power transcends anything humans can comprehend.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the phrase "The nations shall see and be confounded at all their might" implies that the power and strength of the nations will be brought into question and ultimately proven insufficient in the face of God's sovereignty. The image of laying their hand upon their mouth symbolizes a sense of awe and humility before the greatness of God. The act of covering their mouths signifies a recognition of their own inadequacy and the need to be silent in the presence of God's might. Additionally, the mention of their ears being deaf suggests that the nations will be unable to comprehend or fully grasp the extent of God's power, leaving them astonished and speechless. This verse serves as a reminder of the unmatched power and authority of God, highlighting the limitations of human strength and wisdom in comparison.

American Standard Version

The nations shall see and be ashamed of all their might; they shall lay their hand upon their mouth; their ears shall be deaf.
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