The oblique reference to Micah continues. The expectation is that the congregation will understand the reference, and then understand the way in which the original text is modified into the meaning in this particular context. The Message is that of the eventual turning of the tide against the Gentiles, a theme that was given in the previous day’s message as well (3 Nephi 16:15).
Translation: In the process of molding Micah into this discourse, the translation manages to create an awkward shift from discourse to citation. The first clause is “For I will make my people….” The verb make in English requires a direct object in this clause, and there is none in the sentence. What becomes the object of “make” is the entire citation, which is given as a description of what the Lord will make the Israelites do. The meaning is discernable, but the translation itself is weak. This is only further evidence that the process of translation was not one of rote copying of text seen on the interpreters, but required Joseph’s mental participation. As with all humans and language, Joseph would sometimes begin a complex construction and not finish it correctly. This has nothing to do with the plate text, but is simply further evidence for the nature of the translation process.
Reference: This verse contains the language of Micah:
Micah 4:13
13 Arise and thresh, O daughter of Zion: for I will make thine horn iron, and I will make thy hoofs brass: and thou shalt beat in pieces many people: and I will consecrate their gain unto the LORD, and their substance unto the Lord of the whole earth.