Overview
Amos, a shepherd from Tekoa in Judah, was sent to the Northern Kingdom to expose the injustice, oppression, and formal worship concealed beneath its prosperity. After oracles of judgment against the nations and Israel and a series of five visions, the book concludes with the promise that the fallen booth of David will be raised up.
Theme The justice and righteousness required of the covenant people, and the judgment of YHWH
Historical background
Amos prophesied during the reigns of Uzziah of Judah and Jeroboam II of Israel. A temporary decline of Assyria allowed the Northern Kingdom to expand its territory and enjoy economic prosperity, but wealth was concentrated and the poor were oppressed. In Acts 15:16–17, James cites Amos 9:11–12 to explain the inclusion of the Gentiles.