Mic 5:4-5 | TNotes | STEP | Summary for Mic 5:4-5: 5:4-5 Following the Exile, Prince Zerubbabel, a descendant of David, was among the returned exiles and became the focus of Israel’s hopes (see Hag 2:20-23 ). But a greater ruler than Zerubbabel was needed. The leader from Bethlehem would be a source of peace ; Isaiah called him the Prince of Peace (Isa 9:6 ). Only Jesus fits this description.

bHag 2:20-23►

cIsa 9:6►

‏ Micah 5:4-5

Summary for Mic 5:4-5: 5:4-5 ^a Following the Exile, Prince Zerubbabel, a descendant of David, was among the returned exiles and became the focus of Israel’s hopes (see Hag 2:20-23 ^b). But a greater ruler than Zerubbabel was needed. The leader from Bethlehem would be a source of peace; Isaiah called him the Prince of Peace (Isa 9:6 ^c). Only Jesus fits this description.
5:5 ^d The Assyrians destroyed northern Israel in 722 BC. Sennacherib shut up King Hezekiah of Jerusalem “like a bird in a cage” (Sennacherib’s own words) in 701 BC and devastated over forty-six cities in Judah. The hoped-for deliverer-king did not appear in those days. The Assyrians represent all of Israel’s enemies.

• seven rulers ... eight princes: This literary expression indicates that an abundance of leaders will be supplied as needed to lead Israel.