Bible Figure
Amos
8th-century BCE Israelite biblical prophet, Christian saint, traditionally linked to the Book of Amos
Amos was an eighth-century BC prophet from Tekoa whom God sent to announce judgment particularly against the prosperous but unjust northern kingdom of Israel.
Biography
Amos describes himself as a shepherd or livestock breeder and a dresser of sycamore figs rather than a member of a prophetic guild. He prophesied during the reigns of Uzziah of Judah and Jeroboam II of Israel, when outward prosperity concealed serious injustice and religious hypocrisy. His book opens with judgments on surrounding nations before turning forcefully against Israel for oppression of the poor, sexual immorality, corrupt courts, and worship divorced from righteousness. Amos received visions of coming judgment and confronted Amaziah, priest of Bethel, who ordered him to leave. The book culminates in judgment imagery but closes with a promise of restoration associated with David's fallen booth.
Biblical Significance
Amos insists that genuine worship cannot be separated from justice and righteousness. His prophecy exposes the false security of prosperity and religious observance when covenant faithfulness is absent.