Matthew Poole and continuators on Amos 4:1

1 HEar this word ye kine of Bashan, that are in the mountain of Samaria , which oppress the poor , which crush the needy , which say to their masters , bring and let us drink .

Attentively, and consider the consequences of it; weigh both what and whose it is that is spoken.

Prophesie, or sermon of reproof and threatning, Vid. chap. 3. ver. 1. let. a, b, c, d. So Amos bred among Cattel, compares the mighty, proud, wanton, and oppressive Rulers of Israel to those full fed, strong, and wanton Beasts which in the herds did push at, hurt, and disturb the weaker Cattle. Some will by this understand the Court Ladies of Israel in those times; but this perhaps is too nice, though as in Ahab's time Iezabel was at Court, and a promoter of oppression and violence, so there might be in after times some like her, and perhaps these may be intended secondarily, yet surely Amos intends the great Men and Governours whom he calls kine of Bashan, a fruitful Country, of which see Ezek. 39.18. and Nah. 1.4.

In a decorum to his first allusion he calls their places of Power, Authority, and Office in the Kingdom of Israel, Mountains, for as those beasts grazing on Mountains grew fat, so these men by their fees, perquisites and bribes grew insolent and mischievous, Vid. ca[illegible: 1 letter]. 3. ver. 9. let. m.

The meaner sort of the people, the commonalty under their jurisdiction by colour of Law.

By force and open violence break in pieces the afflicted, who have neither power nor friend to relieve them.

Husbands say some, so the Hebr. will bear, or it may refer to some of the greatest Officers in Israel, who had inferiour Officers under them, or the Masters of the poor.

Get us Commission, or bring them into our Court and Office.

We will get by them to feast on, and revel in drink.

This verse is an Introduction to all that follows in this chapter.