Old Testament
Amos 1:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The LORD says: For three transgressions of Gaza, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment, because they carried away the whole captivity to deliver them to Edom.
Compare translations
Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Gaza, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because they carried away captive the whole captivity, to deliver them up to Edom:
What Amos 1:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is addressing the people of Gaza, highlighting their wrongdoings. The phrase 'for three transgressions, and for four' emphasizes that their sins are numerous and serious. Gaza had taken captives and delivered them to Edom, showing a lack of compassion and justice. God declares that He will not overlook their actions; punishment is inevitable. This reflects a principle of accountability, where actions have consequences. The message serves as a reminder that injustice and cruelty do not go unnoticed. God’s justice is not arbitrary; it is based on the moral fabric of society. The people of Gaza are being warned that their choices lead to dire outcomes, urging them to reflect on their behavior. This verse invites us to consider how our actions affect others and the importance of standing against wrongdoing in our own lives. It challenges us to seek justice and compassion in our interactions with others, ensuring we do not contribute to harm or oppression.
How to apply Amos 1:6 to your life
Reflect on your actions and their impact on others. Are there ways you can promote justice and compassion in your community? Stand against wrongdoing and support those who are oppressed. Your choices matter and can lead to positive change in the world around you. Be a voice for the voiceless and act with integrity in all situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Amos Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Amos 1:6
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Amos 1:6
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Amos
- Author
- Amos the prophet
- Written
- Around 760 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- The northern kingdom of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Amos 1:6 mean?
Amos 1:6 conveys God's message to Gaza, condemning their actions of capturing and delivering people to Edom. The phrase 'for three transgressions, and for four' indicates that their sins are many and serious, and God will not ignore their wrongdoing.
What is the significance of Gaza in Amos 1:6?
In Amos 1:6, Gaza represents a city that has committed grave injustices by enslaving captives and selling them to Edom. This highlights the theme of accountability for actions that harm others.
What does 'three transgressions, and for four' mean in Amos 1:6?
The phrase 'for three transgressions, and for four' emphasizes the multitude and severity of Gaza's sins, indicating that their wrongdoing is excessive and deserving of punishment.
What is the main message of Amos 1:6?
The main message of Amos 1:6 is that God will hold Gaza accountable for their cruel actions against captives. It serves as a warning that injustice will not go unpunished.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.