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Book of Amos - Chapter 7 - Verse 1

7:1
Thus hath the Lord GOD shewed unto me; and, behold, he formed grasshoppers in the beginning of the shooting up of the latter growth; and, lo, it was the latter growth after the king's mowings.

Meaning

In this verse, the prophet Amos recounts a vision given to him by the Lord GOD. The vision describes the formation of grasshoppers at the beginning of the latter growth, following the king's mowings. This imagery serves as a metaphorical message from the Lord, emphasizing the timing of certain events in relation to the actions of earthly rulers. The mention of the king's mowings suggests a time of harvest or reaping, and the appearance of grasshoppers symbolizes destruction and devastation. The later growth symbolizes the period after the king's intervention, highlighting the cyclical nature of life and the consequences of human actions. This verse reminds readers of the importance of divine timing and the inevitability of outcomes based on earthly decisions. It serves as a warning against disobedience and the potential consequences of straying from God's will.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Amos, the prophet describes a vision he received from the Lord God. The mention of grasshoppers in this vision has theological significance, as grasshoppers were often associated with devastation and destruction in biblical times. The forming of grasshoppers at the beginning of the shooting up of the latter growth could symbolize a coming judgment or punishment from God. The phrase "after the king's mowings" may refer to a time of abundance or prosperity after the king has taken his share of the harvest. This verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and his ability to bring both blessings and judgment upon his people. It is a powerful example of the prophetic imagery used throughout the book of Amos to convey God's message to his people.

American Standard Version

Thus the Lord Jehovah showed me: and, behold, he formed locusts in the beginning of the shooting up of the latter growth; and, lo, it was the latter growth after the king's mowings.
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