Book of Amos - Chapter 6 - Verse 13

This verse from the book of Amos is a warning against placing one's trust and confidence in things of no real value. The mention of "horns" in the verse is a metaphor for power and strength. The people being addressed are being reminded that any power or strength they may have acquired is not from their own doing, but rather a gift from God. By attributing their successes to their own abilities, they are essentially rejoicing in something that is meaningless and temporary. The verse serves as a reminder for people to humble themselves and acknowledge God as the true source of their strength and blessings. It is a cautionary message against pride and self-reliance, urging believers to remain dependent on God for their true source of power and security.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse from Habakkuk 1:16, 'Ye which rejoice in a thing of nought, which say, Have we not taken to us horns by our own strength?', one can see a warning against pride and self-sufficiency. The term "rejoice in a thing of nought" refers to finding joy in something worthless or futile. In this context, the people are boasting about their own strength and accomplishments, attributing their success to themselves rather than recognizing it as a gift from God. The reference to "horns" symbolizes power and might in the ancient Near East, but the people mistakenly believe that they have acquired this power through their own efforts. This verse serves as a reminder of the dangers of arrogance and the importance of acknowledging God as the ultimate source of strength. It encourages humility and dependence on God rather than self-reliance.