Am 5:1-15

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God requires repentance (Am 5:1-15)

The prophet again recalls past warnings that the people had consistently ignored. He sees vividly that the result of the people’s stubbornness will be the destruction of Israel. Samaria will be conquered and most of Israel’s army wiped out (Am 5:1-3).

What God wants is not an increase in religious ceremonies but a turning in heart and life to him. He does not want processions to religious holy places (which, in any case, will be destroyed) but the administration of civil justice that is fair to all (Am 5:4-7).

The all-powerful God will punish those who build up their power through oppressing others (Am 5:8-9).

When corrupt people are accused by the poor of being dishonest, they respond with increased hatred and cruelty. They use their power to force the poor into greater hardship, then with the money they have dishonestly gained they build bigger and more luxurious houses and gardens. They are able to do all this without fear of opposition, because they bribe government officials and no one dares to speak out against them (Am 5:10-13.)

(The ‘gate’ in an ancient eastern city was the business and community centre, the place where people gathered to talk and where the city elders gave judgments in disputes).

The people of Israel will escape God’s punishment only if they change their ways individually and restore justice in their society (Am 5:14-15).