Amos 7:6

Authorized King James Version

The LORD repented for this: This also shall not be, saith the Lord GOD.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נִחַ֥ם
repented
properly, to sigh, i.e., breathe strongly; by implication, to be sorry, i.e., (in a favorable sense) to pity, console or (reflexively) rue; or (unfavo
#2
יְהוָ֖ה
The LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#3
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
זֹ֑את
this (often used adverb)
#5
גַּם
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
#6
הִיא֙
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#7
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
תִֽהְיֶ֔ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#9
אָמַ֖ר
for this This also shall not be saith
to say (used with great latitude)
#10
אֲדֹנָ֥י
the Lord
the lord (used as a proper name of god only)
#11
יְהוִֽה׃
GOD
god

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Amos. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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