Amos 7:14

Authorized King James Version

Then answered Amos, and said to Amaziah, I was no prophet, neither was I a prophet's son; but I was an herdman, and a gatherer of sycomore fruit:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיַּ֤עַן
H6030
Then answered
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
#2
עָמוֹס֙
H5986
Amos
amos, an israelite prophet
#3
וַיֹּ֣אמֶר
H559
and said
to say (used with great latitude)
#4
אֶל
H413
near, with or among; often in general, to
#5
אֲמַצְיָ֔ה
H558
to Amaziah
amatsjah, the name of four israelites
#6
לֹא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
נָבִ֖יא
H5030
I was no prophet
a prophet or (generally) inspired man
#8
אָנֹ֔כִי
H595
i
#9
וְלֹ֥א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#10
בֶן
H1121
son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#11
נָבִ֖יא
H5030
I was no prophet
a prophet or (generally) inspired man
#12
אָנֹ֑כִי
H595
i
#13
כִּֽי
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#14
בוֹקֵ֥ר
H951
but I was an herdman
a cattle-tender
#15
אָנֹ֖כִי
H595
i
#16
וּבוֹלֵ֥ס
H1103
and a gatherer
to pinch sycamore figs (a process necessary to ripen them)
#17
שִׁקְמִֽים׃
H8256
of sycomore fruit
a sycamore (usually the tree)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Amos, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Amos.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Amos Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection