Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live: and so the LORD, the God of hosts, shall be with you, as ye have spoken.
AMOS 5:14KJVWhat does Amos 5:14 mean?
Amos 5:14 urges the people to actively pursue what is good instead of what is evil, promising that if they do so, they will truly live and experience the presence of the LORD, the God of hosts, just as they have claimed. The verse ties the well-being and spiritual life of the people directly to their moral choices.
Amos, a prophet speaking to the people of Israel during a time of social injustice and empty religious ritual, calls them to genuine goodness rather than just outward religion. The verse highlights that God’s presence is not automatic or based on tradition; it depends on seeking good and turning away from evil.
The Hebrew behind Amos 5:14
- "Seek" (דָּרַשׁ, darash, H1875) means to search out or strive after with intention. This word shows that the call is not passive; the people must make a real effort to pursue what is good.
- "Good" (טוֹב, tov, H2896) refers to what is morally right, beneficial, and pleasing to God. The focus is on actions and attitudes that align with God’s character.
- "Evil" (רַע, ra‘, H7451) means what is harmful, wicked, or opposed to God’s ways. The contrast with "good" is sharp, emphasizing a clear moral choice.
- "Live" (חָיָה, chayah, H2421) often means more than just physical life; it can include well-being, flourishing, and experiencing God’s favor.
Why Amos 5:14 matters
- Amos 5:14 makes clear that God’s presence cannot be assumed just because people claim it; it is linked to their pursuit of good and rejection of evil.
- The verse connects personal and communal well-being ("that ye may live") directly to moral choices, not just religious observance.
- This call fits into Amos’s larger message that true faith is shown by justice and righteousness, not by rituals or words alone.