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Author |
Amos |
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Date |
Between 760 and 753 BC |
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Time Span |
7-10 years |
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Title |
The book is named after its author: Amos. Amos is often referred to as the "sycamore-grower from the south" or the "herdsman of Tekoa." |
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Background |
Amos is a shepherd and a fruit picker from the Judean village of Tekoa (due south of Bethlehem) when God calls him-even though he lacks an education or a priestly background. Amos' mission is directed to his neighbor to the north, Israel. His messages of impending doom and captivity for the nation because of her sins are largely unpopular and unheeded, however, because not since the days of Solomon have times been so good in Israel. Amos' ministry takes place while Jeroboam II reigns over Israel, and Uzziah reigns over Judah (about 40 years prior to Israel's exile to Assyria). Contemporary prophets are Isaiah, Hosea, and Micah. |
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Where |
Near Jerusalem |
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To Whom |
Primarily to Israel, but also to Judah and the surrounding nations. |
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Content |
Amos can see that beneath Israel's external prosperity and power, internally the nation is corrupt to the core. The sins for which Amos chastens the people are extensive: neglect of God's Word, idolatry, pagan worship, greed, corrupted leadership, and oppression of the poor. Amos begins by pronouncing a judgment upon all the surrounding nations, then upon his own nation of Judah, and finally the harshest judgment is given to Israel. His visions from God reveal the same emphatic message: judgment is near. The book ends with God's promise to Amos of future restoration of the remnant. |
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Themes |
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Key |
"Plumbline"; "Hope." God's vision to Amos reveals the "plumbline" (standard) by which the people will be tested and judged. God's nature shines through by the "hope" He offers in His restoration of the land and of the people. |
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Outline |
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