Book of Amos - Chapter 6 - Verse 12

The verse 'Shall horses run upon the rock? will one plow there with oxen? for ye have turned judgment into gall, and the fruit of righteousness into hemlock:' is a powerful metaphorical statement found in the Biblical book of Amos. This verse serves as a rebuke to the people of Israel for their injustice and perversion of righteousness. The imagery of horses running on a rock and plowing with oxen on hard ground conveys the absurdity and futility of their actions. It is an admonition against trying to achieve impossible or impractical outcomes, highlighting the consequences of perverting justice and righteousness. By turning judgment into gall and righteousness into hemlock, the people have distorted the foundations of morality and truth, leading to bitter and poisonous results. This verse serves as a cautionary reminder of the importance of upholding justice, righteousness, and truth in all aspects of life.

When examining the verse, 'Shall horses run upon the rock? will one plow there with oxen? for ye have turned judgment into gall, and the fruit of righteousness into hemlock:', it is important to delve into the theological implications behind the imagery used. The comparison of horses running on a rock and attempting to plow with oxen in such terrain emphasizes the futility and impracticality of going against God's will. Just as these tasks would be pointless and impossible, so too is the act of perverting judgment and righteousness. By turning judgment into gall and righteousness into hemlock, the consequences are severe. Gall and hemlock both have bitter and poisonous connotations, highlighting the detrimental effects of distorting justice and righteousness. This verse serves as a warning against corrupting these fundamental principles and emphasizes the importance of upholding justice and righteousness in all aspects of life.