Yitzchak Etshalom, "Amos: The Genius of Prophetic Rhetoric" (Maggid, 2024)
Jan 14, 2025
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Yitzchak Etshalom, a renowned Rabbi and master educator in Los Angeles, dives into the life and rhetoric of the prophet Amos. He reveals how Amos's poetic critiques of Israelite elites resonate with timeless themes of justice and power. Listeners learn about Etshalom's personal journey behind his commentary, influenced by family and teaching experiences. Additionally, the discussion explores Amos's historical context, his artistry in advocating for social responsibility, and Etshalom's exciting upcoming projects in biblical studies.
Amos's prophetic messages emerged amidst 8th century geopolitical tensions, highlighting a divided Israel and power struggles with the Assyrian Empire.
The core focus of Amos's teachings emphasizes social justice, urging a collective responsibility to treat the vulnerable with compassion and fairness.
Deep dives
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Historical Context of Amos
Amos, the prophet, delivered his messages during a time of significant geopolitical tension, particularly in the 8th century BCE. His prophecies addressed a divided Israel, where the northern kingdom refused to align with the Davidic dynasty and worship in Jerusalem, highlighting ongoing struggles related to regional power dynamics. The introduction of Baal worship alongside the rising threat of the Assyrian Empire further complicated the socio-political landscape that Amos confronted in his oratory. Understanding this historical backdrop is crucial for appreciating the depth of Amos's prophetic messages and their relevance to the Israelite audience.
Amos's Emphasis on Justice
The core message of Amos revolves around justice, particularly emphasizing the importance of treating the vulnerable and the poor with fairness and compassion. He critiques the judicial abuses prevalent in society, urging the people to reflect on their moral responsibilities towards one another. This focus on social justice is encapsulated in notable phrases from his writings that have resonated through generations, such as the call for justice to roll like waters. By framing his rebukes within a familial context, he aims to invoke a sense of collective identity and accountability among his listeners.
With timeless poetry and stunning imagery, the prophet Amos of Tekoa, a simple herdsman from the Judean mountains, stands in front of a stubborn, antagonistic audience of Israelite royalty and aristocracy and he rebukes them for their many abuses of power. But he offers them a better vision of themselves by lifting them to the heavens on wings of lyrical brilliance.
Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom has been a dynamic and inspiring master educator in Los Angeles since 1984. He received his semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, and lectures annually at the prestigious Tanakh Study Days at Herzog College. Etshalom has also written the highly acclaimed series Between the Lines.