Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Israel, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because they sold the righteous for silver, and the poor for a pair of shoes;
This is what the Lord says: Israel has crossed the line over and over again, and I'm not backing down from the consequences anymore. They've been selling out good people for money and trading away the poor for basically nothing, like a pair of shoes.
God's calling out Israel for treating people like they're disposable and putting profit over people.
📚 Historical Context
Amos was a shepherd and fig farmer from Judah who was called by God to prophesy against the Northern Kingdom of Israel in the 8th century BC, during a time of relative prosperity under King Jeroboam II. Despite their economic success, Israel had become deeply corrupt, with the elite exploiting the vulnerable through unjust practices like bribery and oppression. This verse highlights God's judgment on such sins, specifically condemning the sale of innocent people into slavery or the poor for trivial items like silver or shoes, as a symbol of widespread greed and disregard for human dignity.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.