ESV Reformation Study Bible – Amos 1:2
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Amos 1:2

1:2 The Lord. See notes Ex. 3:15.

roars. Or, “will roar,” since the action is future. As a shepherd, Amos could have known well the terrifying roar of a lion on the attack (1 Sam. 17:34–37). The Lord Himself roars from Zion to announce His judgment (Jer. 25:30; Joel 3:16). These opening words of judgment set the tone for what follows.

pastures . . . withers. The Lord’s judgment will affect the whole land, from the pastures to the forested top of Carmel, rich in orchards and vineyards (Lev. 26:19; Deut. 28:23, 24).