Amos 5:11 - Exposition

Therefore . Because ye refuse reproof, and oppress the poor. Your treading is upon the poor; ye trample upon. The Hebrew word boshes is found nowhere else, and is variously explained. Septuagint, κατεκονδύλιζον , "smote with the fists;" so the Syriac; Vulgate, diripiebatis, with which the Chaldee agrees. Keil, Schegg, and most modern commentators explain the word, by a slight dialectical variation, as equivalent to conculcare. Burdens of wheat; rather, tribute, exactions of wheat, or presents like enforced "benevolences." They exacted such gifts before they would do justice to the poor. Or it may refer to interest for money or victuals lent, which took the form of presents in order to evade the Law ( Exodus 22:25 ; Le Exodus 25:37 ; Deuteronomy 23:19 ). Septuagint, δῶρα ἐκλεκτά : Vulgate, praedam electam, the Hebrew word bar meaning either "wheat" or "elect." Hewn stone. Houses thus built were a mark of luxury and wealth, sun-dried brick being the usual material employed (comp. Isaiah 9:10 ; Ezekiel 12:5 , Ezekiel 12:7 ). Ye shall not dwell in them. This is the punishment of their evil doings, according to the threat in Deuteronomy 28:30 , Deuteronomy 28:39 . The people shall be banished and the land desolated ( Micah 6:15 ; Zephaniah 1:13 ).