Definition: I will break also the bar of Damascus, and cut off the inhabitant from the plain of Aven, and him that holdeth the sceptre from the house of Eden: and the people of Syria shall go into captivity unto Kir, saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Amos 1:5. It’s a pretty serious and powerful passage in the Old Testament. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying God is going to remove something very specific and disruptive from a place – a particular area of the land. Let's unpack each part: “I will break also the bar of Damascus” : This refers to a specific, large, fortified structure or settlement called Damascus. It’s been described as a powerful, possibly oppressive, stronghold. "Breaking" it suggests destruction and removal. “and cut off the inhabitant from the plain of Aven” : The “plain of Aven” is a very important area – it's a fertile plain that was crucial for agriculture and trade in ancient times. The verse means God is going to remove all the people living there. “and him that holdeth the sceptre from the house of Eden” : This is where it gets really symbolic. "Sceptre" refers to a symbol of power – a ruler or authority figure. The “house of Eden” is a reference to the Garden of Eden, which represents paradise and perfect peace. So, this means God is going to remove those who wield power – rulers, leaders, and anyone holding significant influence – from that area. It's suggesting a return to a state of chaos or unrest. “and the people of Syria shall go into captivity unto Kir” : Finally, it’s saying that the people of Syria (a region in the east) will be forced to leave this area and go somewhere else – Kir. This is a strong command to exile them. Overall Meaning & Significance: The verse paints a picture of God actively intervening to restore order and peace to a land. It's a warning about potential unrest and suggests that God is working to eliminate those who are causing problems. It’s also a message of judgment, but it's framed as a restoration of justice and the return to a state of righteousness. Important Context: This verse appears in Amos 1:5, which is part of a larger book about social justice and God’s judgment on Israel. It's often interpreted as a warning to Israel to repent and change their ways before God becomes very angry. It signifies that God will punish those who are defiant or rebellious. In short, this verse describes a significant act of God – removing harmful influences and restoring balance to a land through divine intervention. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Compare it to another passage from the Bible? Discuss what this verse might symbolize beyond just removal of people?