Amos and the other prophets arose during the period
922 – 722 BC. Both kingdoms (Judah and Israel) had turned away from God to
focus on their own self-interests. The prophets were: students of history and
astute observers of the present. They had an agenda and were culturally
confrontational
Amos is a written prophecy (probably by a scribe) based on tales about Amos. Although not literally true, it is an accurate representation of the kingdoms’ social dimension and Israel’s sins
Amos’ theme (Ch 5:24) – “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.”
In the Hebrew tradition (unlike in the West), justice and righteousness were synonymous: to understand the will of God in this moment. While Western justice is deliberately blind, righteousness looks at everything involved – do what you think is right according to God’s will.
Amos was the prophet of God’s righteousness - it included the people’s attitude, not just their adherence to the letter and spirit of the law.
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