King James Version
What Does Amos 5:3 Mean?
“For thus saith the Lord GOD; The city that went out by a thousand shall leave an hundred, and that which went forth by an hundred shall leave ten, to the house of Israel.”
Context
1
Hear ye this word which I take up against you, even a lamentation, O house of Israel.
2
The virgin of Israel is fallen; she shall no more rise: she is forsaken upon her land; there is none to raise her up.
3
For thus saith the Lord GOD; The city that went out by a thousand shall leave an hundred, and that which went forth by an hundred shall leave ten, to the house of Israel.
4
For thus saith the LORD unto the house of Israel, Seek ye me, and ye shall live:
5
But seek not Bethel, nor enter into Gilgal, and pass not to Beersheba: for Gilgal shall surely go into captivity, and Bethel shall come to nought.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **Shall leave an hundred.—***i.e.*, shall have an hundred only as a remnant of the thousand who went forth to war. The great cities were to be decimated in the coming struggle with Assyria.
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 5:3 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 5:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge