Guiding Questions: Amos 5

This is part of the Tanakh Yomi Project.

  1. In Amos 5:1, is the “I” the prophet or God?
  2. Does the verse indicate that the destruction of Israel will be followed by respite or that this destruction represents a finality?
  3. Yet, in Amos 5:4, is there an expression of hope — if one will “search for God”?
  4. But, where is the search not to take place — and why are these sites mentioned?
  5. Should the “seeking of God” not take place, according to Amos 5:6 what is to become of Israel, that is, the house of Joseph?
  6. In Amos 5:7 the Israelites, again, are accused of basic unethical conduct and this is compared to the Divine (Amos 5:8). In Amos 5:9 is indicated the response to those who persecute the impoverished — in what manner?
  7. In Amos 5:10 who are those who do not deal justice in the city’s gates and who abhor the truth-teller?
  8. What will become of the economic prosperity and the secure dwellings of the powerful (Amos 5:11)?
  9. Again, in Amos 5:12, what is the transgression to which the prophet calls attention most forcefully?
  10. In Amos 5:14, if the Israelites are to “find God” what must they do?
  11. If justice will prevail (Amos 5:15) what is the anticipated outcome?
  12. Would Amos 5:16-17 indicate that the prophet is optimistic that “the right things will be done”?
  13. Why, in Amos 5:18, does the prophet decry those who call for “God’s day”?
  14. In his description of it, what is “God’s day”?
  15. Does Amos 5:21 imply that observance is decried — or that it is denounced under certain circumstances?
  16. As one reads Amos 5:22-24, it becomes clear that what is essential is the performance of –?
  17. How does the prophet recall the observance pattern of the wilderness days (Amos 5:25)?
  18. Does the chapter end on a note of hope or despair (Amos 5:27)?

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    Exploring Judaism is the digital home for Conservative/Masorti Judaism, embracing the beauty and complexity of Judaism, and our personal search for meaning, learning, and connecting. Our goal is to create content based on three core framing: Meaning-Making (Why?), Practical Living (How?), and Explainers (What?).

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Perek Yomi materials originally produced by the USCJ and Dr. Morton K. Siegel.
We are grateful to be able to share this material.

Author

  • favicon of exploring judaism logo

    Exploring Judaism is the digital home for Conservative/Masorti Judaism, embracing the beauty and complexity of Judaism, and our personal search for meaning, learning, and connecting. Our goal is to create content based on three core framing: Meaning-Making (Why?), Practical Living (How?), and Explainers (What?).

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