Amos

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Hebrew ʿĀmôs (“burden-bearer”)
• Period/Era: Divided Kingdom (8th century BC, reigns of Uzziah of Judah and Jeroboam II of Israel)
• Main References: Amos 1–9 (esp. 1:1; 7:10–17; 9:11–15)
• Key Connections: Tekoa in Judah; northern Israel (Samaria); confrontation with Amaziah the priest of Bethel

Who was Amos?

Amos was a prophet from Tekoa in Judah who prophesied primarily to the northern kingdom of Israel.
He described himself as a shepherd and a dresser of sycamore figs, not part of a prophetic guild (Amos 7:14–15).
His ministry addressed covenant violations, especially injustice and corrupt worship, during a time of outward prosperity.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Delivered oracles of judgment against surrounding nations and against Israel for violence and oppression (Amos 1–2).
• Event 2: Announced divine rejection of ritual observance when joined to injustice, calling for righteousness in public life (Amos 5).
• Event 3: Reported visions of impending judgment and was opposed by Amaziah at Bethel, highlighting conflict between prophet and sanctuary authority (Amos 7).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Amos presents prophetic speech as accountable to God’s covenant standards, especially where worship and social practice diverge.

Key Verse

"But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." — Amos 5:24, ESV