Aspect Details
Author Amos, a shepherd from Tekoa, a town in Judah, and not a professional prophet.
Time Period Approximately 760-750 BCE, during the reigns of Uzziah in Judah and Jeroboam II in Israel.
Geopolitical Context The Northern Kingdom of Israel was experiencing a period of political stability and economic prosperity. However, this prosperity brought social injustices and religious complacency.
Religious Context Religious syncretism and idolatry were widespread. Israelites were worshipping other gods alongside Yahweh, and rituals were being performed without genuine adherence to the covenantal laws.
Social Context There was significant social inequality. The rich were becoming richer, often at the expense of the poor. Amos speaks out against exploitation, corruption, and the lack of justice.
Main Themes
  • Condemnation of social injustices and exploitation of the poor.
  • Critique of empty religious rituals and hypocrisy.
  • Call for repentance and adherence to the moral and ethical standards of the Torah.
  • Proclamation of divine judgment against Israel and neighboring nations.
Prophetic Message Amos delivered messages of impending disaster and destruction due to the people's sins. He emphasized that true worship of God required justice and righteousness.
Audience The primary audience were the inhabitants of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, particularly the wealthy and ruling classes who were responsible for the injustices Amos condemned.
Significance in Biblical Canon The Book of Amos is one of the twelve minor prophets in the Old Testament. Its themes of social justice and genuine piety continue to be powerful and relevant for contemporary readers.


Chapter Content Summary
Amos 1 Judgment against the nations surrounding Israel: Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, and Ammon.
Amos 2 Judgment against Moab and Judah. Specific condemnation of Israel for injustices and idolatry.
Amos 3 Necessity for Israel's punishment; reasons why God's judgment is inevitable.
Amos 4 Israel's unrepentance despite various divine warnings and punishments.
Amos 5 A call to repentance and a lamentation over Israel's sins; a plea for justice and righteousness.
Amos 6 Condemnation of indulgence and complacency among Israel's leaders; foretelling of exile.
Amos 7 Visions of judgment: locusts, fire, and a plumb line; confrontation with Amaziah, the priest of Bethel.
Amos 8 Vision of the summer fruit; a depiction of Israel’s imminent end and the coming of a famine of the word.
Amos 9 Vision of God's judgment temple; the promise of restoration for the remnant of Israel.