The Prophecies of Amos: Oracles against the Nations(Continued)

In this lesson, we will analyze the rhetorical style of the Oracles to the Nations at the beginning of Amos, specifically the opening formula of each. Each of the oracles follows a common pattern – a pattern which is then greatly expanded in the final, culminating oracle against Yisrael. We will analyze the use of the "messenger formula" ("koh amar"  - "thus says") here and elsewhere in Tanakh, and the theological and political tension carried with it.  We will then look at the meaning of the "three and four" formula and the rhetorical twist used for the final verse.