Amos 5:19

KJV

As if a man did flee from a lion, and a bear met him; or went into the house, and leaned his hand on the wall, and a serpent bit him.

KJV (with Strong's)

As if a man {H376} did flee {H5127} from {H6440} a lion {H738}, and a bear {H1677} met {H6293} him; or went {H935} into the house {H1004}, and leaned {H5564} his hand {H3027} on the wall {H7023}, and a serpent {H5175} bit {H5391} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

as if someone were to run from a lion, just to be met by a bear; as if he entered a house, put his hand on the wall, just to be bitten by a snake.

Berean Standard Bible

It will be like a man who flees from a lion, only to encounter a bear, or who enters his house and rests his hand against the wall, only to be bitten by a snake.

American Standard Version

As if a man did flee from a lion, and a bear met him; or went into the house and leaned his hand on the wall, and a serpent bit him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Amos 5:19 vividly illustrates the inescapable nature of divine judgment for unrepentant Israel, portraying a series of escalating and unavoidable perils. Through striking imagery, the prophet declares that attempts to evade one form of calamity will only lead to an encounter with another, equally certain, danger. This verse shatters any illusion of security or escape for those who presumed upon God's grace while living in sin, emphasizing that for the rebellious, the "day of the Lord" would be one of pervasive darkness and not light.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Amos 5:19 is situated within a powerful prophetic lament and call to repentance addressed to the northern kingdom of Israel. The chapter begins with a dirge over Israel's impending fall ([Amos 5:1-3](/amos/5-1-3 "Amos 5:1-3 - A Lament for Israel")), followed by an urgent plea to "seek the Lord and live" ([Amos 5:4-6](/amos/5-4-6 "Amos 5:4-6 - Seek the Lord and Live")). Crucially, verse 19 directly follows the prophet's sharp rebuke of those who foolishly desired the "day of the Lord" ([Amos 5:18](/amos/5-18 "Amos 5:18 - Woe to Those Who Desire the Day of the Lord")), expecting it to be a day of vindication and light. Amos shatters this false hope, declaring that for the unrepentant, it would be a day of "darkness, and not light." The imagery of inescapable danger in verse 19 serves as a powerful, concrete illustration of this pervasive and unavoidable judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Amos delivered his message during the prosperous reign of Jeroboam II in the Northern Kingdom of Israel (c. 760-750 BC). Despite outward religious observance and economic flourishing, Israel was plagued by rampant social injustice, oppression of the poor, moral corruption, and syncretistic idolatry. The people had become complacent, believing their national strength and religious rituals would protect them from divine wrath. The imagery used in Amos 5:19—fleeing dangerous wild animals like lions and bears, and the unexpected threat of a serpent in a seemingly safe home—would have resonated deeply with an agrarian society familiar with such perils in their natural environment. These scenarios underscore the common human experience of seeking refuge, only to find danger where security was expected, making the divine judgment described all the more terrifying and relatable.
* **Key Themes:** Amos 5:19 contributes significantly to several major themes woven throughout the book of Amos and the broader prophetic literature. Foremost is the theme of **Inevitable Judgment**, highlighting that God's justice for unrepentant sin is certain and inescapable. This verse powerfully illustrates the **Futility of False Security**, showing that human attempts to evade divine consequences are ultimately useless. It underscores the **Sovereignty of God's Justice**, emphasizing that He will not be mocked and His word of judgment will come to pass. Furthermore, it serves as a stark warning against **Spiritual Complacency and Hypocrisy**, which characterized Israel's attitude. The verse also deepens the understanding of the **"Day of the Lord"**, transforming it from a hoped-for day of national triumph into a dreaded day of darkness and destruction for the unrighteous, as articulated in [Amos 5:18](/amos/5-18 "Amos 5:18 - The Day of the Lord as Darkness") and contrasted with the call to "seek good, and not evil" in [Amos 5:14](/amos/5-14 "Amos 5:14 - Seek Good, Not Evil").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **flee (Hebrew, _nûwç'_):** This primitive root signifies to flit, vanish away, subside, or escape. It also carries causative meanings like to chase, impel, or deliver. In this context, it vividly portrays the desperate attempt of an individual to escape a immediate, life-threatening danger. The man is actively trying to get away, but his efforts are ultimately futile in the face of the subsequent peril.
* **bear (Hebrew, _dôb'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be slow," this word refers to the bear, specifically the Syrian brown bear, which was native to the region and a formidable predator. The inclusion of the bear immediately after the lion emphasizes that escaping one great danger does not guarantee safety; another equally terrifying threat can emerge unexpectedly, highlighting the pervasive nature of the impending judgment.
* **serpent (Hebrew, _nâchâsh'_):** This term refers to a snake, from its characteristic hiss. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, serpents were often associated with danger, deception, and hidden threats. Here, the serpent represents a danger that is not obvious or external, but rather lurking in a place presumed to be safe—the home. This illustrates that God's judgment is so comprehensive that even perceived havens offer no true refuge.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"As if a man did flee from a lion, and a bear met him;":** This clause sets up the first scenario, a powerful **analogy** for inescapable judgment. A man, facing the immediate and terrifying threat of a lion (a symbol of overwhelming danger), expends all his effort to escape. However, his flight from one deadly predator leads him directly into the path of another equally dangerous one, a bear. This illustrates the futility of human attempts to escape divine judgment; avoiding one calamity only brings another, equally certain, consequence.
* **"or went into the house, and leaned his hand on the wall, and a serpent bit him.":** This second clause presents an alternative, equally dire scenario, employing **parallelism** to reinforce the central message. The man, seeking refuge and safety within the presumed sanctuary of his own home, finds unexpected peril there. As he leans against the wall, a common gesture of rest or relief, a hidden serpent bites him. This imagery emphasizes that God's judgment is not confined to external threats but penetrates even the most intimate and seemingly secure spaces, demonstrating its comprehensive and pervasive nature.

#### Literary Devices
Amos 5:19 is rich in **Imagery**, painting vivid pictures of escalating and unavoidable danger. The sequence of a lion, a bear, and a serpent creates a sense of dread and inevitability. The verse employs powerful **Analogy** and **Simile** ("As if a man...") to liken the certainty of God's judgment to common, relatable experiences of peril. This is further enhanced by **Parallelism**, where two distinct but thematically similar scenarios are presented to reinforce the same core message: there is no escape. The first scenario involves external, large predators, while the second involves a hidden, internal threat, collectively demonstrating the comprehensive reach of the impending doom. The escalating nature of the threats, from fleeing one large beast to encountering another, then seeking refuge only to find a hidden, venomous one, also hints at **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the absolute certainty and pervasiveness of the judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Amos 5:19 powerfully articulates the biblical truth that divine judgment for unrepentant sin is utterly inescapable. It shatters the dangerous illusion of false security, particularly for those who presume upon God's grace or believe that religious rituals alone can shield them from the consequences of their rebellion. The verse underscores God's unwavering justice and His sovereign control over all circumstances, demonstrating that when His judgment is due, no human effort, no perceived sanctuary, and no evasion tactic will ultimately succeed. It serves as a stark reminder that the consequences of defying God's will are comprehensive and pervasive, extending even into what one might consider a safe haven. This theme resonates throughout Scripture, warning against complacency and emphasizing the seriousness of living in defiance of a holy God.

* [Proverbs 11:21](/proverbs/11-21 "Proverbs 11:21 - The Wicked Shall Not Go Unpunished")
* [Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - Sowing and Reaping")
* [Hebrews 10:31](/hebrews/10-31 "Hebrews 10:31 - A Terrifying Thing to Fall into the Hands of the Living God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Amos 5:19 serves as a timeless and sobering warning, urging us to confront the reality of God's justice and the inescapable consequences of unrepentant sin. It challenges any notion of spiritual complacency or the dangerous presumption that our religious affiliations or past blessings will somehow exempt us from accountability. This verse compels us to honestly examine our lives, asking whether we are truly seeking God and living in alignment with His righteous standards, or if we are merely going through the motions, perhaps even longing for a "day of the Lord" that, for the unrighteous, will bring judgment rather than blessing. True security is never found in human efforts to escape or in false havens, but solely in genuine repentance and a humble return to the Lord. When we turn from our sin and seek Him with all our hearts, He becomes our ultimate refuge and strength, a dwelling place where no lion, bear, or serpent can ultimately harm us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be presuming upon God's grace, believing that my actions will not have consequences?**
* **Am I living with a false sense of security, perhaps relying on external religious practices rather than genuine heart transformation?**
* **What "lions" or "bears" am I trying to flee from in my life, and am I seeking refuge in "houses" that God has not ordained as safe?**
* **How does the certainty of God's judgment, as depicted in this verse, motivate me to live a life of greater humility and obedience?**

### FAQ
**Is this verse only about ancient Israel, or does it apply to believers today?**

Answer: While Amos 5:19 was specifically addressed to the northern kingdom of Israel regarding their impending judgment, the principles it conveys are timeless and universally applicable. It illustrates the unchanging nature of God's justice and the futility of attempting to escape the consequences of unrepentant sin. For believers today, it serves as a powerful warning against spiritual complacency, hypocrisy, and presuming upon God's grace. It reminds us that God is holy and righteous, and while His mercy is abundant, there are indeed serious consequences for living in defiance of His will. Therefore, its message calls all people to genuine repentance and a sincere pursuit of righteousness.

**How does this verse relate to God's mercy and grace?**

Answer: Amos 5:19, in its stark depiction of inescapable judgment, highlights the seriousness of sin and God's unwavering justice. However, it does not negate God's mercy and grace; rather, it underscores their necessity. The very reason for such severe judgment is the rejection of God's repeated calls to repentance and His offer of grace (e.g., [Amos 5:4](/amos/5-4 "Amos 5:4 - Seek the Lord and Live") and [Amos 5:14](/amos/5-14 "Amos 5:14 - Seek Good, Not Evil")). For those who refuse to turn from their sin, judgment is the inevitable outcome. God's mercy is precisely what provides an *escape* from this otherwise inescapable judgment, but it is an escape found only through repentance and faith, not through human evasion tactics. The New Testament reveals the ultimate expression of this mercy in Christ, who bore the judgment we deserved.

**What is the "Day of the Lord" mentioned in Amos, and how does this verse clarify it?**

Answer: The "Day of the Lord" is a significant prophetic theme referring to a time when God intervenes decisively in human history to execute judgment and/or salvation. In Amos's time, many Israelites mistakenly believed it would be a day of national triumph and vindication for them, a day of "light" for Israel against their enemies. However, Amos 5:18-20 shatters this illusion. Amos 5:19, in particular, clarifies that for unrepentant Israel, the "Day of the Lord" would be a day of inescapable darkness and judgment, not light. It would be a time when all avenues of escape would be closed, and even presumed places of safety would become sources of peril. This redefinition served as a severe warning, emphasizing that God's judgment is based on righteousness, not national identity or ritualistic adherence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Amos 5:19's chilling depiction of inescapable judgment finds its ultimate resolution and profound significance in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The verse portrays a humanity trapped, unable to escape the consequences of its rebellion against God, with every avenue leading to further peril. This perfectly illustrates the human predicament under the curse of sin, where there is "none righteous, no, not one" and "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" ([Romans 3:10](/romans/3-10 "Romans 3:10 - None Is Righteous") and [Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned")). Humanity, like the man in Amos 5:19, is constantly fleeing one consequence of sin only to encounter another, with no true refuge found in human efforts or earthly havens. However, Christ offers the true and only escape from this inescapable judgment. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), bearing the full weight of God's wrath on the cross, thereby providing a way for humanity to be reconciled to God. For those who believe in Him, the "Day of the Lord" is transformed from a day of dread into a day of salvation and eternal life ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God's Love and Eternal Life")). Jesus Himself becomes the ultimate "house" and "refuge" for His people, the secure dwelling place where no spiritual lion, bear, or serpent can ultimately harm those who are "in Christ Jesus" ([Romans 8:1](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1 - No Condemnation in Christ Jesus")). He is the true and living way to escape the judgment, not by fleeing from it, but by being hidden in Him, who absorbed it for us.

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

Isaiah 24:17

Fear, and the pit, and the snare, [are] upon thee, O inhabitant of the earth.

Isaiah 24:18

And it shall come to pass, [that] he who fleeth from the noise of the fear shall fall into the pit; and he that cometh up out of the midst of the pit shall be taken in the snare: for the windows from on high are open, and the foundations of the earth do shake.

Jeremiah 15:2

And it shall come to pass, if they say unto thee, Whither shall we go forth? then thou shalt tell them, Thus saith the LORD; Such as [are] for death, to death; and such as [are] for the sword, to the sword; and such as [are] for the famine, to the famine; and such as [are] for the captivity, to the captivity.

Jeremiah 15:3

And I will appoint over them four kinds, saith the LORD: the sword to slay, and the dogs to tear, and the fowls of the heaven, and the beasts of the earth, to devour and destroy.

Acts 28:4

And when the barbarians saw the [venomous] beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.

Jeremiah 48:43

Fear, and the pit, and the snare, [shall be] upon thee, O inhabitant of Moab, saith the LORD.

Jeremiah 48:44

He that fleeth from the fear shall fall into the pit; and he that getteth up out of the pit shall be taken in the snare: for I will bring upon it, [even] upon Moab, the year of their visitation, saith the LORD.