The Symbolism Of Micah's Story In Judges 17

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The calling of the priest within the Micah Story in Judges 17 illustrates the lack of centrality in terms of worshipping the LORD during the time of the Judges. Micah appears to have knowledge of Yahweh, while at the same time creating and worshipping other gods or idols. In Judges 17, Micah first installs one of his sons as a priest, but later after locating a Levite he takes it upon himself to consecrate the Levite to serve as priest within his household. Micah’s son is no longer mentioned in the story; therefore we can assume the Levite took over the priestly functions. The question or struggle becomes does Micah have a true understanding of the role of a priest, and does he believe having a priest within his household will still allow him to find favor or protection from God? Upon a first glance it appears Micah has an…show more content…
The story opens with a confession by Micah to his mother stating he took eleven hundred pieces of silver from her. While the silver was missing the mother lamented over the disappearance, and even cursed the one who took it. Upon Micah’s confession the mother rejoices and states she will consecrate the silver to the LORD. The story takes a turn as in the same sentence she states the silver will then be made into an idol. Although this paper will focus on Judges 17:7-13; verse 3 sets the tone for the culture of worshipping idols while at the same time stating they are worshipping God, when Micah’s mother consecrates the money the LORD, then takes a portion to the silversmith. The chapter continues with the narrative of the silver being taken to a silversmith to cast an idol, upon completion of the idol it is displayed in the house of Micah. He then installs one of his sons as a priest, and the chapter continues with the statement of no king, and Israel doing “what was right in their own eyes.”

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