Micah 5:1
“Now gather thyself in troops, O daughter of troops: he hath laid siege against us: they shall smite the judge of Israel with a rod upon the cheek.”
King James Version
Immediately before the Bethlehem prophecy, the 'judge of Israel' struck on the cheek with a rod — read of the smiting of the Messiah.
Fulfillment References
Micah 5:2 Matthew 27:30 Isaiah 50:6 John 19:3
How Traditions Read This Prophecy
Apostolic (Oneness) PentecostalThe 'judge of Israel' smitten on the cheek is Jesus (Matt. 27:30; Isa. 50:6) — the one God in flesh enduring the rod.
JewishThe siege and striking of Israel's 'judge' — read of the nation's humiliation under attack.
CatholicThe smiting of the Judge of Israel read of Christ struck and mocked in His passion.
ProtestantThe 'judge of Israel' smitten on the cheek (cf. Matt. 27:30) read of Christ's humiliation, set just before the Bethlehem ruler prophecy.
OrthodoxChrist the Judge of Israel struck in His passion.
DispensationalThe Messiah's first-coming rejection and smiting before His reign.
AcademicScholars debate whether 5:1 refers to the historical siege/king or, with 5:2 following, a messianic figure; the chapter division is discussed.
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Bible Prophecy Explorer · based on J. Barton Payne’s Encyclopedia of Biblical Prophecy catalogue · an openly Apostolic (Oneness) Pentecostal study resource — all traditions presented fairly. Pastor: C. Myles Young, PhD · Bishop: Nathaniel J. Wilson, Ed.D.