Definition: That pant after the dust of the earth on the head of the poor, and turn aside the way of the meek: and a man and his father will go in unto the [same] maid, to profane my holy name:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Amos 2:7. It’s a really powerful and important passage about justice and respect for God’s name. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God sees the suffering of the poor and those who are vulnerable, and he wants to protect them with his own people – specifically, a man and his father. It’s a direct challenge to selfishness and disregard for God's goodness. Let's unpack it word-by-word: “Amos 2:7 That pant after the dust of the earth on the head of the poor…” This is describing a person who is focused on their own needs – worrying about their own problems, struggling with hardship – rather than focusing on God’s people. It's about being consumed by worries and difficulties. "Pant" here means to dwell on or worry about something. “…and turn aside the way of the meek…” This refers to someone who is gentle, humble, and obedient to God. A “meek” person is kind and doesn’t brag or be boastful. It's about being respectful and considerate of others. “And a man and his father will go in unto the [same] maid…” This is the core of the verse. "The maid" refers to God's name – His Name . It’s suggesting that this man and his father are seeking something specifically connected to God’s name. “…to profane my holy name:” This is the most crucial part. “Profane” means to dishonor, defile, or corrupt. "To profane" means to damage or destroy something sacred. The word “profane” here implies a deliberate act of disrespect and disregard for God's honor and will. Overall Meaning & Context: Amos is speaking to a leader in Israel who is showing neglect towards the poor and vulnerable. He’s warning that this behavior is disrespectful and could be damaging to the kingdom of God. The verse highlights a crucial point: God values respect, kindness, and humility – qualities that are essential for honoring His name and living a righteous life. Why it's important: This verse is often interpreted as a call to repentance and a reminder that we should always treat others with respect and reverence, especially those who are suffering. It’s a warning against selfish behavior and a plea for humility in the face of God’s blessings. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you a different example from the Bible to illustrate this idea?