Amos 1:12

Authorized King James Version

But I will send a fire upon Teman, which shall devour the palaces of Bozrah.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְשִׁלַּ֥חְתִּי
But I will send
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#2
אֵ֖שׁ
a fire
fire (literally or figuratively)
#3
בְּתֵימָ֑ן
upon Teman
teman, the name of two edomites, and of the region and descendant of one of them
#4
וְאָכְלָ֖ה
which shall devour
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#5
אַרְמְנ֥וֹת
the palaces
a citadel (from its height)
#6
בָּצְרָֽה׃
of Bozrah
botsrah, a place in edom

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Amos. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection