Judges 17:2

said to his mother, "The eleven hundred shekels of silver that were taken from you and about which I heard you utter a curse--I have the silver here with me; I took it." Then his mother said, "Blessed be my son by the LORD!"

Study Bible

said to his mother
In the context of ancient Israelite society, family relationships were central, and communication between family members often carried significant weight. The mother-son relationship here is crucial, as it sets the stage for the unfolding narrative. The family unit was the primary social structure, and the respect and authority within it were paramount.

“The eleven hundred shekels of silver that were taken from you
The mention of "eleven hundred shekels of silver" is significant, as it represents a substantial amount of wealth during this period. This sum is reminiscent of the amount offered to Delilah by the Philistine rulers in Judges 16:5, indicating its considerable value. The silver's theft suggests a breach of trust and familial discord, highlighting the moral and spiritual decline in Israel during the time of the Judges.

and about which I heard you utter a curse—
Curses in the ancient Near East were taken very seriously, often believed to invoke divine retribution. The mother's curse would have been perceived as powerful, potentially invoking fear or guilt in the son. This reflects the cultural belief in the power of spoken words and the spiritual consequences of actions.

I have the silver here with me; I took it.”
The confession of theft by the son reveals a moment of moral clarity or fear of the curse's consequences. This act of confession is pivotal, as it demonstrates the internal conflict and the struggle between right and wrong. It also underscores the theme of personal responsibility and the need for repentance.

Then his mother said, “Blessed be my son by the LORD!”
The mother's response is one of forgiveness and blessing, invoking the name of the LORD. This reflects the cultural and religious practice of seeking divine favor and the power of parental blessing. Her reaction contrasts with the curse, showing a shift from potential judgment to grace. This blessing can be seen as a type of Christ's redemptive work, where confession leads to forgiveness and restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Micah
A man from the hill country of Ephraim who confesses to stealing silver from his mother.

2. Micah's Mother
The woman who curses the thief of her silver, not knowing it was her son, and later blesses him upon his confession.

3. The Hill Country of Ephraim
The region where Micah and his mother reside, significant in the tribal allotments of Israel.

4. The Silver
Eleven hundred shekels of silver, a substantial amount, which Micah confesses to stealing and returning.

5. The Curse and Blessing
The mother's initial curse upon the thief and subsequent blessing upon her son highlight the power of words and intentions in Hebrew culture.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Confession
Micah's confession to his mother demonstrates the biblical principle of confessing sins to restore relationships and receive forgiveness.

The Power of Words
The mother's curse and subsequent blessing illustrate the significant impact of our words, both positive and negative, on others.

Restitution and Repentance
Returning the stolen silver is an act of restitution, showing that true repentance involves making amends for wrongs done.

Family Dynamics and Faith
The interaction between Micah and his mother highlights the complexities of family relationships and the role of faith in resolving conflicts.

The Role of Blessings and Curses
This passage reminds us of the spiritual weight of blessings and curses, urging us to be mindful of how we use our words.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Micah's confession and his mother's response teach us about the importance of honesty in family relationships?

2. How can we apply the principle of restitution in our own lives when we have wronged someone?

3. In what ways do our words, like the curse and blessing in this passage, impact those around us, and how can we ensure our words are life-giving?

4. How does this account illustrate the biblical principle of honoring one's parents, and what steps can we take to better honor our own parents?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the power of confession and forgiveness. How did it change your relationship with the person involved?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:12
The commandment to honor one's parents is relevant here, as Micah's actions initially dishonor his mother.

Proverbs 28:13
This verse speaks to the importance of confessing and renouncing sin, which Micah does by admitting his theft.

James 5:16
The New Testament encourages confession of sins to one another, which aligns with Micah's confession to his mother.

Matthew 15:4-6
Jesus discusses honoring parents, which can be contrasted with Micah's initial actions.

Ephesians 4:28
This verse encourages those who have stolen to steal no longer, but to work and share with those in need, a principle Micah begins to follow by returning the silver.