Amos 5:10

Authorized King James Version

They hate him that rebuketh in the gate, and they abhor him that speaketh uprightly.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שָׂנְא֥וּ
They hate
to hate (personally)
#2
בַשַּׁ֖עַר
in the gate
an opening, i.e., door or gate
#3
מוֹכִ֑יחַ
him that rebuketh
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
#4
וְדֹבֵ֥ר
him that speaketh
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#5
תָּמִ֖ים
uprightly
entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth
#6
יְתָעֵֽבוּ׃
and they abhor
to loathe, i.e., (morally) detest

Analysis

Within the broader context of Amos, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Amos.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Amos Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection