King James Version
What Does Amos 3:3 Mean?
“Can two walk together, except they be agreed?”
Context
1
Hear this word that the LORD hath spoken against you, O children of Israel, against the whole family which I brought up from the land of Egypt, saying,
2
You only have I known of all the families of the earth: therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities. punish: Heb. visit upon
3
Can two walk together, except they be agreed?
4
Will a lion roar in the forest, when he hath no prey? will a young lion cry out of his den, if he have taken nothing? cry: Heb. give forth his voice
5
Can a bird fall in a snare upon the earth, where no gin is for him? shall one take up a snare from the earth, and have taken nothing at all?
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **Two.**—Who are the two here represented? Some commentators say, two prophets; Rosenmüller, “God and the prophet.” But Grotius, Lowth, Henderson, and Pusey refer it, with more reason, to God and Israel, the expression denoting, not merely God’s knowledge of a man, but man’s response to God. His practical obedience, his communion of heart and will, are described as “walking with” or “before God.” (Genesis 5:22; Genesis 6:9; Genesis 17:1; Psalm 56:13; Psalm 116:9.) Will, then, God walk with man, guiding, shielding, strengthening him, if man is not in harmony with Him? This is the first of a series of parabolic apothegms, all of which require a negative answer. (Leviticus 26:23-24.) Each states an event, closely and indissolubly related to another in the bond of cause and effect. All these symbolic utterances point on to the climax in Amos 3:7-8.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Amos. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Amos 3:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Amos 3:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge