Book introduction
The book of Amos
Amos was a shepherd and fig farmer from Judah sent to preach in rich, comfortable Israel. He condemns the oppression of the poor, bribery in the courts, and worship without justice.
Who wrote Amos?
Amos of Tekoa. Most scholars accept that most of the book comes from him, with some later additions.
When was it written?
About 760–750 BC.
Main themes
- Justice
- “Let justice roll on like waters.”
- Worship without justice is empty
- God rejects feasts and songs from people who crush the poor.
- Hope after judgment
- The book ends with David’s fallen tent raised up.
Outline of Amos
Key verses
Seek good and not evil, so that you may live. Then Yahweh, the God of Armies, will be with you, just as you say he is.
But let justice roll on like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.
On that day I will raise up the fallen shelter of David. I will repair its broken walls and restore its ruins, and I will rebuild it as it was in days long ago,
Quoted from the Lumin Translation.
Where to start
Read chapter 5, then go back to the start.
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Questions about Amos?
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