5:28 That is how 1 they have grown fat and sleek. 2
There is no limit to the evil things they do. 3
They do not plead the cause of the fatherless in such a way as to win it.
They do not defend the rights of the poor.
22:16 He upheld the cause of the poor and needy.
So things went well for Judah.’ 4
The Lord says,
‘That is a good example of what it means to know me.’ 5
1 tn These words are not in the text but are supplied in the translation to show that this line is parallel with the preceding.
2 tn The meaning of this word is uncertain. This verb occurs only here. The lexicons generally relate it to the word translated “plate” in Song 5:14 and understand it to mean “smooth, shiny” (so BDB 799 s.v. I עֶשֶׁת) or “fat” (so HALOT 850 s.v. II עֶשֶׁת). The word in Song 5:14 more likely means “smooth” than “plate” (so TEV). So “sleek” is most likely here.
3 tn Heb “they cross over/transgress with respect to matters of evil.”
4 tn The words “for Judah” are not in the text, but the absence of the preposition plus object as in the preceding verse suggests that this is a more general statement, i.e., “things went well for everyone.”
5 tn Heb “Is that not what it means to know me.” The question is rhetorical and expects a positive answer. It is translated in the light of the context.