Matthew Poole and continuators on Amos 2:6

6 ¶ Thus saith the LORD, For three transgressions of Israel , and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof: because they sold the righteous for silver , and the poor for a pair of shoes .

Vid. chap. 1. ver. 3. let. z, a.

The Kingdom of the Ten Tribes under the Government of Ieroboam the second at this time, against which the Prophet was chiefly sent, though he began with Syria and others, by the threats against which Nations he prepared both Iudah and Israel to hearken and consider.

Vid. chap. 1. ver. 3. let. c.

Those who by the appointment of the Law had power to hear, and decide causes between man and man; Judges and Witnesses like the corrupt Judges;

for bribes were their aim, and they would at any time sell Justice to the highest bidder.

The Innocent, or those who had a just and righteous cause, for the Prophet here speaks of the justness of the cause, not of the exact justice, or absolute righteousness of the person.

Money was the most current and prevailing commodity with these Judges, but moneys-worth would do the seat too, if money were out of the way.

When poor men went to law with poor men before these Judges, and the thing they contended for was of small value, the contenders too had light purses, and could not give a considerable bribe;

a very poor bribe exprest here proverbially, would sway with these Judges, who gaped still after somewhat of Gain from all.

Marginal references: chap. 8.6.