מיכה, פרק ה׳, פסוק ח׳

The promise of future victory is framed as a complete triumph over all those who seek to cause harm. It speaks of rising up and gaining high status [מצודת ציון], representing the ultimate ability to overcome and conquer [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The primary approach among commentators is that this message is directed at the nation of Israel, foretelling a time when their bravery will be clearly visible to all. However, another perspective suggests that the raised hand of power belongs to God, who will personally strike and destroy the great nation of Gog and Magog [צאינה וראינה]. Yet, even if the visible bravery belongs to the Israelites, the true force acting behind the scenes to eliminate the threats is God [אבן עזרא].

To fully grasp how this victory unfolds, a distinction must be made between active attackers and passive haters [מלבי״ם]. An adversary is someone who actually causes distress, engages in combat, and attacks. An enemy, on the other hand, harbors hatred and wishes for harm but remains inactive. This distinction explains the dual nature of the triumph. When facing active adversaries, the Israelites will not need to exert full effort or fight with both hands; simply raising a single hand will be enough to secure victory. Meanwhile, the passive enemies will be cut off and fade away entirely on their own [מלבי״ם].

A completely different reading suggests that the initial rise to power does not refer to the victory of Israel, but rather to the status of their foes. Following the principle that pride comes before a fall, the events unfold in two distinct stages. First, those who hate Israel will experience a temporary period of greatness and elevated status. Only after reaching this peak will their ultimate downfall arrive, leading to their complete destruction [אהבת יהונתן].