The prophet Amos, like the other prophets of the Bible, was a messenger of God. The prophets reminded the Hebrews that as God’s chosen people they were to be guided by justice, mercy and compassion. The people were to live this way not just with each other but with all people and all creation. By the time of Amos, the twelve tribes of Israel had split into two separate nations – Judah in the south and Israel or Samaria in the north. Amos lived in Judah but was sent by God to King Jeroboam Il of Samaria. Amos warned the king and the people that if they did not change their ways there would be dire consequences. The prophets condemned those who trusted in riches, foreign gods, political alliances or religious ritual. The prophet urged the people to turn back to God and live to please God. Within fifty years of Amos’ time the northern kingdom came to an end when it fell to Assyria. The people were taken into exile and did not return.
