Amos 4:3

KJV

And ye shall go out at the breaches, every [cow at that which is] before her; and ye shall cast [them] into the palace, saith the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And ye shall go out {H3318} at the breaches {H6556}, every {H802} cow at that which is before her; and ye shall cast {H7993} them into the palace {H2038}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You will leave through breaks in the wall, each woman right behind the next, and be sent off to Harmonah," says ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

You will go out through broken walls, each one straight ahead of her, and you will be cast out toward Harmon,” declares the LORD.

American Standard Version

And ye shall go out at the breaches, every one straight before her; and ye shall cast yourselves into Harmon, saith Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Amos 4:3 delivers a stark prophecy of judgment against the privileged women of Samaria, foretelling their undignified and inescapable exile. Through vivid imagery, the verse depicts them being forcibly led out through the crumbled defenses of their city, stripped of their former status and luxury, and cast into a place of contempt or forced captivity, a direct consequence of their oppressive lifestyles and spiritual apathy. This pronouncement underscores God's unwavering justice against social injustice and unrepentant sin.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Amos 4:3 is situated within a series of divine pronouncements against the northern kingdom of Israel, specifically targeting the wealthy elite of Samaria. The immediate preceding verses [Amos 4:1-2](/amos/4-1-2 "Amos 4:1-2 - The Kine of Bashan and Impending Judgment") introduce the "kine of Bashan"—a sarcastic and condemnatory metaphor for the affluent women who oppressed the poor and lived in self-indulgence. This verse continues the theme of impending, inescapable judgment, detailing the humiliating manner of their future exile. It serves as a grim fulfillment of the warnings found throughout the book concerning Israel's covenant violations and social injustices, leading to the ultimate downfall of the kingdom, as prophesied by Amos.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy of Amos was delivered during a period of relative prosperity for the northern kingdom of Israel under King Jeroboam II, around the 8th century BCE. However, this prosperity was marked by severe social inequality, rampant injustice, and widespread idolatry, particularly in the capital city of Samaria. The wealthy elite, including the women addressed in this passage, lived in luxury, often at the expense of the poor, engaging in practices that violated the Mosaic covenant. The looming threat was the rising Assyrian Empire, known for its brutal conquest and deportation policies. The imagery of "breaches" and forced exile directly anticipates the Assyrian siege and ultimate destruction of Samaria in 722 BCE, as recorded in [2 Kings 17:6](/2_kings/17-6 "2 Kings 17:6 - The Fall of Samaria and Exile").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Amos. First, it highlights **Divine Judgment and Inevitable Consequence**, demonstrating God's righteous wrath against those who violate His moral law and oppress the vulnerable. The imagery of the "breaches" signifies the complete collapse of human defenses in the face of divine decree, emphasizing the inescapable nature of this judgment. Second, it underscores the theme of **Humiliation and Undignified Exile**. The women, accustomed to luxury and status, are depicted being driven out in a chaotic and degrading manner, stripped of all dignity, mirroring the reversal of fortune seen in other prophetic warnings against unrighteousness (e.g., [Isaiah 3:16-24](/isaiah/3-16-24 "Isaiah 3:16-24 - Judgment on the Daughters of Zion")). Finally, it reinforces the **Reversal of Fortune** for those who trust in material wealth and worldly security rather than in the Lord, as their former places of comfort and power become symbols of their downfall.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis

* **breaches (Hebrew, _perets'_):** From the root meaning "to break forth," this term (H6556) literally refers to gaps, breaks, or ruptures in a wall or fortification. In Amos 4:3, it powerfully symbolizes the complete collapse of Samaria's defenses, leaving its inhabitants exposed and vulnerable to their enemies. It signifies the utter failure of any human attempt to withstand God's judgment.
* **cow (Hebrew, _ʼishshâh'_):** While the KJV translates this as "cow" to maintain the metaphor from Amos 4:1, the Hebrew word (H802) fundamentally means "woman." The use of "cow" in the KJV is an interpretive choice based on the preceding verse's "kine of Bashan" metaphor. Here, it underscores the individual and undignified nature of the forced exodus, where each woman, regardless of her former status, is driven out like an animal, without order or respect, highlighting the profound humiliation of their exile.
* **palace (Hebrew, _harmôwn'_):** This word (H2038) literally means "a castle" or "palace," denoting a grand, elevated residence. However, in the context of judgment and "casting," its meaning is highly debated. While some scholars suggest it could be a homonym for "dung-heap" or "place of sacrifice," the primary Strong's definition points to a royal dwelling. Therefore, in Amos 4:3, it likely carries a strong ironic or symbolic meaning, referring either to the ruins of their own luxurious palaces now turned into places of contempt, or to the enemy's palace where they would be taken as captives and spoils of war, thus emphasizing a drastic reversal from their former opulence to utter ignominy.

#### Verse Breakdown

* **"And ye shall go out at the breaches":** This clause vividly portrays the manner of their expulsion. Instead of exiting through city gates in an orderly fashion, the inhabitants, particularly the wealthy women, will be forced out through the broken, crumbling walls of Samaria. This signifies the complete destruction of their city's defenses and the chaotic, undignified, and inescapable nature of their impending exile. It emphasizes their vulnerability and the futility of their former security.
* **"every [cow at that which is] before her":** Building on the metaphor from Amos 4:1, this phrase depicts a disorderly, individual, and humiliating expulsion. Like cattle being driven from a pasture, each woman will be forced out without regard for social status, personal belongings, or family ties. The emphasis is on the lack of dignity and the chaotic nature of their forced march into captivity, highlighting the stripping away of their former pride and privilege.
* **"and ye shall cast [them] into the palace, saith the LORD.":** This is the most enigmatic part of the verse. "Casting" implies a forceful, undignified disposal. The "palace" here, as discussed in the Key Word Analysis, is not a place of luxury for them. Given the context of judgment, it most likely refers to a place of contempt, ruin, or forced captivity. It could symbolize being thrown into the ruins of their own grand homes, now reduced to rubble and ignominy, or being forcibly taken as spoils of war into the enemy's (Assyrian) palace, a symbol of their complete subjugation and the ultimate reversal of their opulent lives. The phrase "saith the LORD" powerfully affirms the divine origin and certainty of this severe judgment.

#### Literary Devices

Amos 4:3 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of impending judgment. **Metaphor** is central, particularly through the continued use of the "kine of Bashan" imagery from [Amos 4:1](/amos/4-1 "Amos 4:1 - The Kine of Bashan"). By likening the wealthy women to pampered cattle, Amos strips them of their human dignity and highlights their self-indulgent, unthinking pursuit of luxury. **Symbolism** is evident in the "breaches," which symbolize the utter collapse of Samaria's defenses and the futility of human security against divine judgment. The "palace" also functions symbolically, representing a drastic **reversal of fortune** and **irony**. What was once a place of luxury and power becomes, through the act of "casting," a place of ignominy, ruin, or forced captivity, underscoring the complete degradation awaiting those who oppressed the poor. The entire verse is infused with **pathos** and **condemnation**, evoking a sense of divine indignation and the tragic consequences of unrepentant sin.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Amos 4:3 serves as a profound theological statement on God's unwavering justice and His commitment to covenant faithfulness. It reveals a God who sees and responds to social injustice, holding even the most powerful accountable for their oppression of the vulnerable. The judgment pronounced is not arbitrary but a direct consequence of Israel's persistent sin, particularly their spiritual complacency and exploitation of the poor. This passage underscores that true security lies not in material wealth or fortified cities, but in righteousness and obedience to the Lord. It is a stark reminder that divine warnings are to be heeded, for God's word, once declared, will surely come to pass.

* [Deuteronomy 28:15](/deuteronomy/28-15 "Deuteronomy 28:15 - Consequences of Disobedience"): This chapter outlines the curses of the covenant, including exile and humiliation, for disobedience.
* [Isaiah 1:17](/isaiah/1-17 "Isaiah 1:17 - Seek Justice"): A call to "seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause," directly contrasting Israel's behavior.
* [Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "Micah 6:8 - What the Lord Requires"): Emphasizes God's requirement for humanity to "do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God," which Israel had failed to do.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Amos 4:3 stands as a timeless warning, challenging us to critically examine our own lives and societies. It calls us away from complacency and self-indulgence, particularly when such lifestyles are built upon or contribute to the oppression of others. The judgment on Samaria reminds us that God is deeply concerned with justice and righteousness, and He will not ignore systemic injustice or spiritual apathy. This verse compels us to consider whether our pursuit of comfort and security blinds us to the needs of the marginalized, or if we are building our lives on foundations that are ultimately vulnerable to collapse. It invites us to cultivate a spirit of humility, generosity, and active compassion, remembering that true lasting security is found only in alignment with God's character and His kingdom values.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, or my community, be complacent about social injustices around us?**
* **What "breaches" in my spiritual or moral defenses might be exposed if God were to bring judgment upon my life?**
* **How does my pursuit of comfort and security align with or diverge from God's call to justice and compassion?**
* **What practical steps can I take to advocate for the vulnerable and challenge systems of oppression in my sphere of influence?**

### FAQ

**What does "every [cow at that which is] before her" mean in this verse?**

Answer: This phrase, building on the metaphor from [Amos 4:1](/amos/4-1 "Amos 4:1 - The Kine of Bashan"), refers to the wealthy women of Samaria who were likened to pampered "kine of Bashan." In Amos 4:3, it signifies a chaotic, undignified, and individual expulsion. Like cattle being driven out, each woman would be forced out without order, without regard for social status, and without the chance to gather belongings. It emphasizes the complete stripping away of their former pride and privilege, highlighting the humiliation of their forced exile.

**What is the significance of "breaches" in this prophecy?**

Answer: The "breaches" refer to gaps or breaks in the city walls of Samaria. Their significance is profound: they symbolize the complete collapse of the city's defenses. Instead of exiting through fortified gates, the inhabitants would be forced out through the ruined sections of the wall, signifying an inescapable and humiliating defeat. It underscores that all human attempts at security would fail in the face of God's determined judgment, as seen in the eventual fall of Samaria to the Assyrians [2 Kings 17:6](/2_kings/17-6 "2 Kings 17:6 - The Fall of Samaria").

**What is the meaning of "palace" in "ye shall cast [them] into the palace"?**

Answer: The meaning of "palace" (Hebrew: *harmôwn*) in this context is subject to scholarly debate, but it certainly does not imply a place of luxury for the exiles. Given the act of "casting" and the context of judgment, it most likely carries a symbolic or ironic meaning. It could refer to the ruins of their own grand palaces, now reduced to rubble and contempt, or it could signify being forcibly taken as captives into the enemy's royal palace as spoils of war. Some interpretations even suggest it's a homonym for "dung-heap" or "place of sacrifice," emphasizing utter degradation. Regardless, it signifies a drastic reversal of fortune, from opulence to ignominy and forced subjugation, fulfilling God's judgment against their unrighteousness.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Amos 4:3, with its vivid imagery of judgment, humiliation, and the stripping away of earthly security, finds its ultimate fulfillment and counterpoint in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "breaches" in Samaria's walls symbolize humanity's brokenness and vulnerability due to sin, a breach that no human effort or earthly fortress could ever repair. Christ, however, is the one who ultimately repairs the breach between God and humanity through His sacrificial death and resurrection [Ephesians 2:13-16](/ephesians/2-13-16 "Ephesians 2:13-16 - Christ Our Peace"). While Amos prophesied a "casting out" into a place of contempt for those who trusted in earthly wealth and injustice, Jesus speaks of a different kind of "casting out" – the judgment of those who refuse to enter His kingdom through repentance and faith [Matthew 8:12](/matthew/8-12 "Matthew 8:12 - Outer Darkness"). Conversely, for those who humble themselves and seek His righteousness, Christ offers entrance into His eternal "palace," the heavenly kingdom, where true and lasting security, dignity, and abundant life are found [John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - I Am the Door"); [Revelation 21:3-4](/revelation/21-3-4 "Revelation 21:3-4 - God Dwells with His People"). Thus, Amos's prophecy of judgment foreshadows the ultimate divine reckoning, while simultaneously pointing to the only way of escape and true flourishing found in the grace and salvation offered by the Lamb of God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezekiel 12:5

Dig thou through the wall in their sight, and carry out thereby.

Ezekiel 12:12

And the prince that [is] among them shall bear upon [his] shoulder in the twilight, and shall go forth: they shall dig through the wall to carry out thereby: he shall cover his face, that he see not the ground with [his] eyes.

Matthew 16:26

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

Zephaniah 1:18

Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of the LORD'S wrath; but the whole land shall be devoured by the fire of his jealousy: for he shall make even a speedy riddance of all them that dwell in the land.

Isaiah 31:7

For in that day every man shall cast away his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which your own hands have made unto you [for] a sin.

2 Kings 7:15

And they went after them unto Jordan: and, lo, all the way [was] full of garments and vessels, which the Syrians had cast away in their haste. And the messengers returned, and told the king.

Isaiah 2:20

In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made [each one] for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats;