Thursday 25 January Amos 4.1-13 Qn.1,2

 “Hear this word, you cows of Bashan, who are  on the mountain of Samaria (1a): some scholars say that these verses 1-3 refer to the women of Samaria. The idea of cows of Bashan was not raised by Amos alone (Deuter. 32.14); (Ezech.39.18). Bashan was located in the south of Jordan river, and due to the water of the river Jordan, the grass of Bashan was always bountiful and fresh, which made the animals feel happy and satisfied. The women of Samaria are compared to these animals since they were also happy and prosperous in their country. Though our culture does not allow us to compare people with animals, sometimes people get prosperous and yet sometimes forget to share with their poor neighbors the blessings from God. Come to Bethel, and transgress; to  Gilgal, and multiply transgression (4): this verse shows us that the Israelites were religious. Just as they are not able to turn away from their sins, neither are they ready to stop going into the house of God with their tithe and offerings. Unfortunately, they give all to satisfy their evil motives and not to please God (Ezech. 33.3). Question: Do you ever think about how God hates Hypocritical religion? Song 249 (Praises)