The book of Micah is commonly dated to around 740–700 BC. This places its writing and prophetic activity in the 8th century BC, during the reigns named in its opening verse.
Approximate date
The date given for Micah is around 740–700 BC. This is presented as an approximate timeframe rather than a single year, reflecting that Micah “prophesied in the 8th century BC” and that his ministry is tied to the reigns identified at the start of the book.
Evidence from Micah
The book itself identifies both the prophet and the source of his message:
“The word of Yahweh that came to Micah the Morashtite” (Micah 1:1)
This opening statement functions as internal evidence that the message is associated with Micah and is framed as a received word. The date note connects Micah’s prophetic work to “the reigns named in his opening verse,” which is the basis for locating him in the 8th century BC and for the approximate range of 740–700 BC.
Author and setting
The author is identified as Micah of Moresheth. The author note describes him as “the prophet Micah, named in the opening verse,” and adds that he was “a contemporary of Isaiah.” These details support the general placement of the book in the 8th century BC and provide a setting for understanding the book as arising from the same broad period as Isaiah’s prophetic ministry (without specifying more than that).
What the book addresses
The book is described as condemning injustice and foretelling “a ruler to come from Bethlehem.” Those themes indicate the nature of Micah’s prophetic message as both ethical critique (condemning injustice) and forward-looking proclamation (foretelling a coming ruler associated with Bethlehem). The audience is identified as Judah and Israel, showing that the book’s message is directed to both communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the book of Micah written?
It is commonly dated to around 740–700 BC, within the 8th century BC, during the reigns named in the book’s opening verse.
Who wrote the book of Micah?
The author is identified as Micah of Moresheth. Micah is named in the opening verse as “Micah the Morashtite” (Micah 1:1).
What internal evidence supports the book’s connection to Micah?
Micah 1:1 states:
“The word of Yahweh that came to Micah the Morashtite” (Micah 1:1)
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This verse explicitly connects the message to Micah and presents it as a word that “came” to him.
What is the book of Micah about?
It is described as a book that condemns injustice and foretells a ruler to come from Bethlehem.
Who was the intended audience of Micah?
The audience is identified as Judah and Israel, indicating the book’s message is directed to both.