Amos 8:6

Authorized King James Version

That we may buy the poor for silver, and the needy for a pair of shoes; yea, and sell the refuse of the wheat?

Word-by-Word Analysis

לִקְנ֤וֹת

H7069

That we may buy

to erect, i.e., create; by extension, to procure, especially by purchase (causatively, sell); by implication to own

בַּכֶּ֙סֶף֙

H3701

for silver

silver (from its pale color); by implication, money

דַּלִּ֔ים

H1800

the poor

properly, dangling, i.e., (by implication) weak or thin

וְאֶבְי֖וֹן

H34

and the needy

destitute

בַּעֲב֣וּר

H5668

properly, crossed, i.e., (abstractly) transit; used only adverbially, on account of, in order that

נַעֲלָ֑יִם

H5275

for a pair of shoes

properly, a sandal tongue; by extension a sandal or slipper (sometimes as a symbol of occupancy, a refusal to marry, or of something valueless)

וּמַפַּ֥ל

H4651

the refuse

a falling off, i.e., chaff; also something pendulous, i.e., a flap

בַּ֖ר

H1250

of the wheat

grain of any kind (even while standing in the field); by extension the open country

נַשְׁבִּֽיר׃

H7666

yea and sell

to deal in grain

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

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

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?