Amos 1:9

Thus saith the Lord, For three transgressions of Tyrus, and for foure I wil not turne away the punishment thereof, because they deliuered vp the whole captiuitie to Edom, and remembred not the brotherly couenant. Amos 1:9 (KJV)

In this verse, the prophet Amos is delivering a message from the Lord concerning the city of Tyre and its transgressions. To understand the verse better, it’s helpful to provide some context and explore the key elements of the passage.

Historical context: The book of Amos is set during a time of relative prosperity and peace for the northern kingdom of Israel. However, beneath the surface, there was widespread injustice, idolatry, and moral corruption. Amos, a shepherd from Tekoa, was called by God to deliver a message of judgment and warning to Israel and its neighbouring nations.

“For three transgressions… and for four”: This phrase is a poetic expression used throughout the book of Amos. It emphasises that the sins committed by a particular nation have reached a tipping point, and God’s judgment is imminent. It does not mean that God only counts transgressions up to a certain number but rather highlights the accumulated weight of their sins.

Tyre’s transgression: Tyre was a significant coastal city in ancient Phoenicia, known for its maritime trade and wealth. The verse states that Tyre’s punishment will not be turned away because of its specific transgression. The city had “delivered up the whole captive which they took captive to Edom.” This likely refers to the betrayal of a covenant or agreement. It is possible that Tyre, in its pursuit of commercial gain or political advantage, had handed over Israelite captives to the Edomites, who were traditional enemies of Israel.

Neglect of the covenant: The verse concludes by stating that Tyre “made no man to stand in the covenant of the children of Israel.” This suggests that Tyre had violated a treaty or covenant of friendship and brotherhood that it had with Israel. By betraying this covenant, Tyre had shown disregard for the bonds of kinship and solidarity that should have existed between them as neighbouring nations.

Overall, Amos 1:9 serves as a reminder of God’s righteous judgment and the consequences that await nations and individuals who persist in unrighteousness and violate their obligations, whether they are covenants with God or agreements between human beings. The verse highlights the importance of honouring agreements and treating others justly, as well as the severity of God’s judgment when these principles are violated.