Book of Amos - Chapter 5 - Verse 1

The verse 'Hear ye this word which I take up against you, even a lamentation, O house of Israel.' from the book of Amos is a call to attention and an admonition from the prophet. In this verse, Amos is speaking directly to the people of Israel, urging them to listen to the message he is about to deliver. The word "lamentation" suggests that the message is one of sorrow and warning, indicating that the wrongdoing of the people will have consequences. By addressing the "house of Israel," Amos is speaking to the entire nation, emphasizing the collective responsibility and accountability of the people. This verse serves as a precursor to the prophecies and warnings that Amos will deliver throughout the book, highlighting the importance of heeding the word of God and repenting of their sins. Through this verse, readers are reminded of the need for repentance, reflection, and adherence to God's commandments in order to avoid the impending judgment.

The theological interpretation of the verse "Hear ye this word which I take up against you, even a lamentation, O house of Israel" highlights the severity of the impending judgment against the nation of Israel. The use of the word "lamentation" suggests a mournful tone, indicating that the prophet's message is a somber warning of the dire consequences of the people's disobedience to God. The phrase "house of Israel" specifically addresses the entire nation, emphasizing that all members bear responsibility for their actions. This verse serves as a call to repentance, urging the people to heed the prophet's words and turn back to God before it is too late. Through a detailed word study, we can uncover the rich layers of meaning behind each term in the verse, shedding light on the historical context and the deep spiritual significance of the message being delivered to the Israelites.