Amos 5:14

"Therefore a prudent person keeps silent in such a time, for it is an evil time."

Key Reflection

In Amos 5:14, a prudent person would remain silent during this particular period because it is considered a time of injustice and oppression. The original audience would recognize that such a directive came against the backdrop of societal and religious corruption; silence was not merely passive but a form of protest or non-compliance with prevailing injustices, as speaking out could lead to further persecution.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Seek good and not evil -that is, and “seek not evil.” Amos again takes up his warning, “seek not Bethel; seek the Lord.” Now they not only “did evil,” but they “sought” it diligently; they were diligent in doing it, and so, in bringing it on themselves; they sought it out and the occasions of it. People “cannot seek good without first putting away evil, as it is written, ‘cease to do evil, learn to do well’Isaiah 1:16-17.” “Ye cannot serve God and Mammon.” He bids them use the same diligence in seeking good which they now used for evil. Seek it also wholly, not seeking at one while good, at another, evil, but wholly good, and Him who is Good.

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