Old Testament
Amos 5:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So the LORD, the God of hosts, the LORD, says this: There will be wailing in every street, and in all the highways, they will say, 'Alas! alas!' They will call the farmers to mourning and those skilled in lamentation to wailing.
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Therefore the LORD, the God of hosts, the LORD, saith thus; Wailing shall be in all streets; and they shall say in all the highways, Alas! alas! and they shall call the husbandman to mourning, and such as are skilful of lamentation to wailing.
What Amos 5:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God is expressing a deep sorrow over the state of His people. He warns that there will be widespread mourning and grief throughout the land. Streets will echo with cries of despair, as people realize the consequences of their actions. Farmers and those who are skilled in expressing sorrow will be called upon to lament. This imagery highlights the seriousness of the situation and the need for reflection. It serves as a reminder that our choices can lead to profound consequences, affecting not just individuals but entire communities. God desires His people to turn back to Him, recognizing the pain caused by their disobedience. The wailing signifies a call to repentance and a chance to seek healing and restoration. Ultimately, this passage invites us to consider the impact of our lives and the importance of aligning ourselves with God's will, leading to true peace and joy instead of sorrow and regret. It’s a powerful reminder that our actions matter and can lead to either despair or hope.
How to apply Amos 5:16 to your life
Consider the areas in your life where you may need to reflect on your choices. Are there actions that lead to sorrow or regret? Take time to seek change and align your life with values that promote healing and joy, both for yourself and those around you. Embrace the opportunity for growth and transformation in your journey with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Amos Summary
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Keep studying Amos 5:16
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 5:16 mean?
Amos 5:16 expresses God's sorrow over the state of His people, warning of widespread mourning and grief due to their actions. It highlights the consequences of disobedience and the need for reflection and repentance.
What is the significance of wailing in Amos 5:16?
The wailing in Amos 5:16 signifies deep sorrow and mourning in response to the consequences of sin. It serves as a call for the community to recognize their failures and seek healing through repentance.
What does the term 'husbandman' refer to in Amos 5:16?
In Amos 5:16, 'husbandman' refers to a farmer or someone who cultivates the land. This term emphasizes the impact of grief on those who provide for the community, highlighting the widespread nature of the mourning.
How does Amos 5:16 relate to the themes of community and reflection?
Amos 5:16 underscores the collective nature of sorrow and the importance of community in facing the consequences of actions. It encourages individuals to reflect on their choices and their impact on others.
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