Micah 1:12

12. Maroth Means Bitternesses. The place is entirely unknown; the context suggests that it was near Jerusalem.

Waiteth carefully R.V., “anxiously.” The derivation of the verb form is uncertain; the margin, tracing it to another root, translates, “is in travail for,” that is, is in pain and distress like a woman in childbirth. If the meaning “wait” is preferred a slight change in the form may be necessary.

For good Deliverance from distress, liberty; or, perhaps, the possessions which they have lost or are about to lose. The expression is somewhat peculiar, and the text may be in disorder; but Marti’s emendation, “How can Maroth expect anything good?” is no improvement.

Micah 1:12 b does not connect with Micah 1:12 a, as if it gave the cause of Maroth’s feelings, but with Micah 1:8, giving another reason for the prophet’s lamentation in fact, the chief reason; the “evil,” that is, the calamity sent by Jehovah, will threaten the holy city itself. However, it is possible to read “yea” instead of “for” in the beginning of 12a and of 12b; then Micah 1:12 would be a continuation of the preceding verses, containing additional statements concerning the calamity about to fail.