Amos 7:15

Authorized King James Version

And the LORD took me as I followed the flock, and the LORD said unto me, Go, prophesy unto my people Israel.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּקָּחֵ֣נִי
took
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
#2
יְהוָ֔ה
And the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#3
מֵאַחֲרֵ֖י
me as I followed
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#4
הַצֹּ֑אן
the flock
a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)
#5
וַיֹּ֤אמֶר
said
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
אֵלַי֙
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
יְהוָ֔ה
And the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
לֵ֥ךְ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#9
הִנָּבֵ֖א
prophesy
to prophesy, i.e., speak (or sing) by inspiration (in prediction or simple discourse)
#10
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#11
עַמִּ֥י
unto my people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#12
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

Analysis

Within the broader context of Amos, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection