Amos 5:7

Authorized King James Version

Ye who turn judgment to wormwood, and leave off righteousness in the earth,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַהֹפְכִ֥ים
Ye who turn
to turn about or over; by implication, to change, overturn, return, pervert
#2
לְלַעֲנָ֖ה
to wormwood
wormwood (regarded as poisonous, and therefore accursed)
#3
מִשְׁפָּ֑ט
judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#4
וּצְדָקָ֖ה
righteousness
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)
#5
לָאָ֥רֶץ
in the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#6
הִנִּֽיחוּ׃
and leave off
to deposit; by implication, to allow to stay

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Amos. The concept of righteousness 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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood righteousness. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection