to burn the bodies: Burning the dead (cremation) was rare in the ancient Near East (see study note on Amos 2:1). Because of this, some interpret this phrase to mean "burn a memorial fire" (see Jeremiah 34:5). Others believe it means "dispose of the remains" without cremation. However, the context (the need to dispose of many bodies to prevent decay and disease; Amos 6:9; see 8:3) supports the idea of cremation.