Amos

Amos, one of the so-called minor prophets of the Hebrews, was a herdsman of Tekoa, in the neighbourhood of Bethlehem, and also a dresser of sycamore trees. During the reigns of Uzziah in Judah, and Jeroboam II. in Israel (about 800 B.C.), he came forward to denounce the idolatry then prevalent. His prophetic writings contain, in the first six chapters, denunciations of the Divine displeasure against several states, particularly that of Israel, on account of the worship of idols. The three remaining chapters contain his symbolical visions of the approaching overthrow of the kingdom of Israel, and lastly, a promise of restoration. His style, remarkable for its clearness and picturesque vigour, abounds with images taken from rural and pastoral life.