King James Version
What Does Amos 4:2 Mean?
“The Lord GOD hath sworn by his holiness, that, lo, the days shall come upon you, that he will take you away with hooks, and your posterity with fishhooks .”
Context
1
Hear this word, ye kine of Bashan, that are in the mountain of Samaria, which oppress the poor, which crush the needy, which say to their masters, Bring, and let us drink.
2
The Lord GOD hath sworn by his holiness, that, lo, the days shall come upon you, that he will take you away with hooks, and your posterity with fishhooks .
3
And ye shall go out at the breaches, every cow at that which is before her; and ye shall cast them into the palace, saith the LORD. cast: or, cast away the things of the palace
4
Come to Bethel, and transgress; at Gilgal multiply transgression; and bring your sacrifices every morning, and your tithes after three years: three: Heb. three years of days
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(2) **Fishhooks.**—Descriptive of the suddenness and irresistible character of the seizure, whereby, as a punishment for their wanton selfishness, the nobles were to be carried away as captives from their condition of fancied security. The strangeness of the imagery has led to a variety of interpretations. Döderlein translates “ye shall be driven into thorny districts, and among thorn bushes.”
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 4:2 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 4:2
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge