Definition: Therefore will I cause you to go into captivity beyond Damascus, saith the LORD, whose name [is] The God of hosts.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Amos 5:27. It's a really important and somewhat challenging passage in the Old Testament that speaks about judgment and consequences. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying God is going to punish a specific group of people – the Israelites – for their sins. He’s sending them away, far from their home, with a very serious warning. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Therefore will I cause you to go into captivity beyond Damascus…” This is the core message. “Damascus” was a place of conflict and rebellion for the Israelites. It’s a strategically important location – think of it as a place where they were constantly fighting with their neighbors, particularly the Edomites. “saith the LORD, whose name [is] The God of hosts.” This is where it gets a bit more poetic and significant. "The God of hosts" is a very powerful phrase. It means God is speaking to us in a grand and impressive way – like a divine speaker. It’s not just saying "God is angry"; it's emphasizing who God is – the ultimate, all-powerful God. What does this mean for the Israelites? This verse isn’t about an immediate punishment. It’s a foretold consequence of their continued disobedience and rebellion. It implies that they are on a path towards destruction. Here's what it suggests: They are being warned: God is warning them that they need to change their ways before it’s too late. A Future Loss: This verse points to a future event – the Israelites leaving the land and going into exile – as a direct result of their continued sins. It's a Judgment: It suggests a judgment is coming, and this judgment will be severe. Important Context (Briefly): Amos was a prophet who warned the Israelites about their impending doom. This verse reinforces his message that they needed to repent (turn away from their sins) before God’s wrath fell upon them. In short, "Amos 5:27" is a strong warning telling the Israelites to change their ways before it's too late, and to be prepared for a devastating consequence – exile. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Give you another verse from Amos 5:27?