Charles Ellicott Commentary Amos 5:12

"For I know how manifold are your transgressions, and how mighty are your sins-ye that afflict the just, that take a bribe, and that turn aside the needy in the gate [from their right]." — Amos 5:12 (ASV)

I know. —Most commentators imply that the “I” is Jehovah, but it is more likely the prophet himself. The adjectives “manifold” and “mighty” should be understood as predicates, meaning: that your transgressions are manifold and your sins are mighty, you afflicters of the just and takers of a bribe, and you who deny justice to the poor in the gate. The term translated “bribe” refers to the ransom that the poor and defenseless were forced to pay to a tyrannical judge to escape a harsh sentence. The “gate” refers to the place where judgment was passed by the leading men.