GospelMount
Search Topics Scripture Prayer Resources Ebooks About Support the mission Saved articles

מִיכָא (mi.kah)

mi.kah

Mica

H4316 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 3 verses

N:N-M-P

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
3 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N-M-P

Word Overview

The name Mica (mi.kah) carries the meaning "who is like God," a phrase that functions as a rhetorical question in Hebrew, implying that no one compares to the divine. This etymology appears in three distinct biblical contexts, linking individuals from very different social strata during Israel’s history.

One bearer of this name was a son of Mephibosheth, the grandson of King Saul, mentioned in 2 Samuel 9:12 and Nehemiah 10:12. His presence in these texts highlights the survival of the royal line through the exile. Another individual with the same name appears as a Levite who signed the covenant under Nehemiah (Nehemiah 11:17), representing the religious restoration of the community.

The sources also identify a third figure, a Gershonite Levite and descendant of Asaph, who is listed in 1 Chronicles 9:15 as the father of Mattaniah. While these are separate people, they share a name that underscores the theological theme of God’s unique supremacy over all human lineage and office.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Mica asks a question that has echoed through centuries: "Who is like God?" It is not just a label but a reminder of God's unmatched nature. In a world where we often measure worth by lineage or status, this name points to a truth that stands above all human titles. No king, priest, or servant can compare with the Creator.

When we encounter bearers of this name in Scripture, they come from different walks of life. Some were part of royal families facing hard times, while others served faithfully in the temple. Their stories show that God's presence is not limited by our background. Whether you feel overlooked or hold a position of responsibility, this name invites you to rest in the fact that God alone is supreme.

This simple question helps us keep our perspective right. It reminds us that our value does not come from what we achieve or who we know, but from the God who made us. Let this truth bring peace to your heart today, knowing that the One who is like no other is also close to you.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Mica2×
  • [was] Mica1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • מִיכָ֑א2×
  • מִיכָ֔א1×

Key Verses

  • II Samuel 9:12
    Mephibosheth had a young son, whose name was Mica. All who lived in Ziba’s house were servants to Mephibosheth.

    This verse records Mica as a young son in the household of Mephibosheth, highlighting how God preserved the memory of Saul's family through David's kindness.

  • I Chronicles 9:15
    and Bakbakkar, Heresh, Galal, and Mattaniah the son of Mica, the son of Zichri, the son of Asaph,

    Here Mica is identified as a Levitical ancestor, showing that those who served in the temple carried this name as a testament to God's unique glory.

  • Nehemiah 11:22
    The overseer also of the Levites at Jerusalem was Uzzi the son of Bani, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of Mica, of the sons of Asaph, the singers responsible for the service of God’s house.

    This occurrence links Mica to the singers who led worship after the exile, demonstrating how the name was associated with restoring praise in Jerusalem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Mica mean?

Mica is a Hebrew name that translates to "who is like God." It functions as a rhetorical question, implying that no human or created being can compare with the Lord. This meaning appears in several biblical names and places as a declaration of God's uniqueness.

How is Mica different from Michael?

Both names share the same Hebrew root phrase meaning "who is like God." While Mica (H4316) appears as a personal name for several individuals in Chronicles and Samuel, Michael (H4317) is primarily known as the archangel. They are linguistically related but used differently in Scripture.

Where does the name Mica appear in the Bible?

The name appears in three verses: 2 Samuel 9:12, 1 Chronicles 9:15, and Nehemiah 11:22. It is attached to individuals from the royal line of Saul and from the Levitical families who served in the temple.

Every Occurrence (3 verses across 3 books)