Mikha 2:13

2:13 The one who can break through barriers will lead them out ¹ 

they will break out, pass through the gate, and leave. ² 

Their king will advance ³  before them,

The Lord himself will lead them. ⁴ 

Mikha 7:16

7:16 Nations will see this and be disappointed by ⁵  all their strength,

they will put their hands over their mouths,

and act as if they were deaf. ⁶ 

[2:13]  ¹ tn Heb “the one who breaks through goes up before them.” The verb form is understood as a perfect of certitude, emphasizing the certainty of this coming event.

[2:13]  ² tn The three verb forms (a perfect and two preterites with vav [ו] consecutive) indicate certitude.

[2:13]  sn The “fold” from which the sheep/people break out is probably a reference to their place of exile.

[2:13]  ³ tn The verb form (a preterite with vav [ו] consecutive) indicates certitude.

[2:13]  ⁴ tn Heb “the Lord [will be] at their head.”

[7:16]  ⁵ tn Or “be ashamed of.”

[7:16]  ⁶ tn Heb “and their ears will be deaf.” Apparently this means the opposing nations will be left dumbfounded by the Lord’s power. Their inability to respond will make them appear to be deaf mutes.