Amos 5:6

Amharic New Standard Translation (አማርኛ አዲሱ መደበኛ ትርጉም) 2005

ይልቅስ ወደ እግዚአብሔር ተመለሱ፤ በሕይወትም ትኖራላችሁ፤ አለበለዚያ እግዚአብሔር የእስራኤልን ሕዝብ እንደ እሳት ሆኖ ያጋያቸዋል፤ የቤትኤልንም ኗሪዎች እሳት ይበላቸዋል፤ እሳቱን የሚያጠፋላቸውም አይገኝም።

What Does This Mean?

The verse is from the prophet Amos who warns the people of Israel to seek God or face destruction like a fire spreading in a house. He specifically mentions Bethel, where they worshipped idols instead of the true God.

Explained for Children

Imagine if you had a toy that could catch on fire if left unattended near a candle. Amos is telling his people to be careful and seek God before something bad happens, like a fire in their house.

Historical Background

Amos was an eighth-century BCE prophet who spoke against the social injustices and idolatry of Israelites. This message was directed at the northern kingdom of Israel, particularly its inhabitants around Bethel, where they had set up golden calves as idols to worship.

Living It Out Today

In modern life, this can be likened to seeking help or guidance before a problem gets out of hand. For example, facing financial issues early through proper budgeting and savings rather than letting it spiral into debt.

Topics

• repentance
• judgment
• seeking God
• prophetic warning
• destruction
• salvation

Related Verses

• Isaiah 56:1
• Jeremiah 29:13
• Zechariah 7:9
• Luke 13:34
• Revelation 3:10

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is speaking in this passage?

The prophet Amos is speaking, delivering a message from God to the people of Israel.

What does 'seek the LORD' mean?

'Seek the LORD' means to turn towards God with all your heart, seeking His guidance and presence in your life.

Why is Bethel mentioned specifically?

Bethel was a place where Israelites worshipped false idols. Amos uses it as an example of how their worship had gone astray from God.

How can one apply this verse in modern life?

One can seek guidance and help early on any issues, preventing them from getting out of control, much like seeking God before problems arise.