Amos 6:11

KJV

For, behold, the LORD commandeth, and he will smite the great house with breaches, and the little house with clefts.

KJV (with Strong's)

For, behold, the LORD {H3068} commandeth {H6680}, and he will smite {H5221} the great {H1419} house {H1004} with breaches {H7447}, and the little {H6996} house {H1004} with clefts {H1233}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For when ADONAI gives the order, great houses will be shattered and small houses reduced to rubble.

Berean Standard Bible

For the LORD gives a command: “The great house will be smashed to pieces, and the small house to rubble.”

American Standard Version

For, behold, Jehovah commandeth, and the great house shall be smitten with breaches, and the little house with clefts.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Amos 6:11 delivers a profound declaration of divine judgment, emphasizing the Lord's absolute sovereignty and the comprehensive nature of the impending destruction upon the Northern Kingdom of Israel. This verse serves as a climactic pronouncement, revealing that God Himself will command the utter collapse of both the grand residences of the elite and the humble dwellings of the common people, symbolizing the complete dismantling of their society and the false security they had placed in material possessions and human strength.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Amos 6:11 stands as a stark culmination of the prophet's indictment against Israel's spiritual complacency and social injustice. Chapter 6 opens with a biting "Woe to them that are at ease in Zion, and trust in the mountain of Samaria" ([Amos 6:1](/amos/6-1 "Amos 6:1 - Woe to the Complacent")). This denunciation targets the wealthy and powerful elite in both Judah (Zion) and Israel (Samaria) who lived in opulent luxury, indulging in comfort and revelry while ignoring the rampant spiritual decay and systemic oppression of the poor. Amos details their self-indulgence, their false sense of security, and their perversion of justice, highlighting how they "put far away the evil day" ([Amos 6:3](/amos/6-3 "Amos 6:3 - Delaying the Day of Judgment")) and failed to grieve over the impending ruin of Joseph ([Amos 6:6](/amos/6-6 "Amos 6:6 - Indifference to Israel's Ruin")). Verse 11 directly follows this detailed condemnation, asserting that the very Lord they ignored will command the devastation of their homes, signifying the complete and inescapable collapse of their societal structures and the shattering of their illusions of safety.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Amos ministered during the reigns of Uzziah in Judah and Jeroboam II in Israel, a period of relative peace and prosperity in the 8th century BC. This economic boom, however, was built upon severe social stratification and injustice. The wealthy elite, particularly in the capital city of Samaria, amassed vast fortunes through exploitation, usury, and corrupt legal practices, while the poor were increasingly marginalized and oppressed. Culturally, there was a widespread spiritual apathy and syncretism, with outward religious observance often coexisting with idolatry and a profound disregard for the Mosaic Law's ethical demands. The "great house" and "little house" imagery reflects the stark social divide of the time, where grand estates stood in contrast to modest dwellings. The people felt secure due to their military strength and political alliances, believing that God would protect them regardless of their moral failures, a hubris that Amos vehemently challenged.
* **Key Themes:** Amos 6:11 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Amos. Firstly, it underscores the **Sovereignty and Justice of God**, demonstrating that the Lord is not merely an observer but an active participant in history, capable of executing His righteous judgment upon a rebellious people. His command is sufficient to bring about destruction, highlighting His absolute authority over nations and individuals. Secondly, the verse emphasizes the **Impartiality and Inevitability of Judgment**. By declaring that both the "great house" and the "little house" will be smitten, Amos conveys that no one, regardless of social standing or wealth, will escape the consequences of national sin. While the primary target of Amos's condemnation is often the corrupt elite, the judgment is depicted as comprehensive, affecting all levels of society. This speaks to the theme of **Accountability**, reminding Israel that their privileged status did not exempt them from divine scrutiny, especially concerning their treatment of the vulnerable, as seen in passages like [Amos 5:11](/amos/5-11 "Amos 5:11 - Oppression of the Poor"). Finally, the imagery of "breaches" and "clefts" vividly portrays the theme of **Total Destruction and Ruin**, signifying the utter collapse of their societal structures, security, and way of life, a direct consequence of their spiritual arrogance and social injustice.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This is the covenant name of God, signifying "the self-Existent or Eternal." Its use here emphasizes that the judgment is not random or merely a natural consequence, but a deliberate, personal act of the God who is in covenant relationship with Israel. It underscores His unwavering character as both faithful and just, holding His people accountable to the terms of that covenant.
* **commandeth (Hebrew, _tsâvâh'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to constitute, enjoin, or appoint," this word highlights God's absolute authority and intentionality. The judgment is not merely permitted but actively initiated and directed by God's sovereign will. His word is sufficient to bring about the destruction, indicating His irresistible power and the certainty of His decree.
* **smite (Hebrew, _nâkâh'_):** This primitive root means "to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)," conveying a decisive, forceful, and often violent act. In this context, it denotes a destructive blow, a direct and impactful intervention from God that will bring about ruin. It is not a passive withdrawal, but an active, punitive measure.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For, behold, the LORD commandeth,"**: This opening clause establishes the divine origin and certainty of the impending judgment. "Behold" serves as an emphatic interjection, drawing urgent attention to the declaration. The use of "the LORD" (Yahweh) underscores that this is a decree from the covenant God of Israel, who is both sovereign and just. His "command" signifies an authoritative, irresistible decree that will undoubtedly come to pass.
* **"and he will smite the great house with breaches,"**: This phrase details the initial target and nature of the judgment. The "great house" refers to the opulent residences of the wealthy elite, symbolizing their power, status, and false security. To "smite" implies a forceful, destructive blow. "Breaches" (Hebrew _râçîyç_) suggests a shattering, a crumbling into pieces, or gaping holes, indicating a severe and visible destruction of these grand structures.
* **"and the little house with clefts."**: This concluding phrase extends the scope of the judgment to encompass all levels of society. The "little house" represents the humble dwellings of the common people. "Clefts" (Hebrew _bᵉqîyaʻ_) refers to fissures or deep cracks, implying a breaking apart or splitting. Together with "breaches," this imagery paints a comprehensive picture of utter ruin, demonstrating that no one, regardless of their social standing, will escape the divine decree. The judgment is universal in its application across Israelite society.

#### Literary Devices
Amos 6:11 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of impending judgment. The most prominent is **Parallelism**, specifically **Synonymous Parallelism**, where "the great house with breaches" is echoed and reinforced by "the little house with clefts." This not only emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the destruction, affecting all social strata, but also intensifies the sense of inevitability. **Imagery** is central, with the vivid pictures of "breaches" and "clefts" transforming abstract judgment into concrete, tangible ruin. These terms evoke the crumbling of physical structures, which serves as a powerful **Symbolism** for the complete collapse of Israel's societal order, economic stability, and false sense of security. The phrase "the LORD commandeth" utilizes **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human action (commanding) to God, thereby highlighting His active involvement and direct agency in the judgment, rather than it being a mere consequence of natural events. The overall tone is one of **Prophetic Oracle**, delivering a divine message with authority and certainty, leaving no doubt about the source or outcome of the impending doom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Amos 6:11 powerfully articulates God's unwavering commitment to justice and His absolute sovereignty over human affairs. The destruction of both "great" and "little" houses signifies that divine judgment is impartial, reaching every segment of a society steeped in sin and complacency. It underscores the theological truth that no earthly security—whether wealth, power, or social standing—can withstand the command of the Lord. This passage serves as a stark reminder that God's covenant with Israel included both blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, and that He will indeed execute His righteous decrees when His people persistently rebel against His moral and ethical standards, particularly in their treatment of the vulnerable.

* [Jeremiah 25:9](/jeremiah/25-9 "Jeremiah 25:9 - God's Judgment through Babylon")
* [Isaiah 2:12-17](/isaiah/2-12-17 "Isaiah 2:12-17 - The Day of the Lord's Judgment")
* [Matthew 7:26-27](/matthew/7-26-27 "Matthew 7:26-27 - The Foolish Builder")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Amos 6:11 serves as a timeless and sobering warning against the dangers of complacency, injustice, and misplaced trust. In our own lives and societies, we are often tempted to find security in material possessions, financial stability, social status, or even political power. This verse challenges us to examine where our true trust lies. It reminds us that any foundation built on self-indulgence, oppression, or a disregard for God's justice is inherently fragile and susceptible to collapse under divine scrutiny. The "great house" and "little house" imagery reminds us that God's judgment is comprehensive; it touches every part of a society that has strayed from His ways. This should prompt us to cultivate a deep sense of spiritual accountability, to actively pursue justice and righteousness in our communities, and to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that true security is found only in God, not in the fleeting comforts of this world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where do I tend to place my ultimate security and trust? Is it in my possessions, my career, my relationships, or in God alone?**
* **In what ways might I be complacent or indifferent to the suffering or injustice present in my own community or society?**
* **How does the certainty of God's impartial judgment motivate me to live a life of greater integrity, compassion, and faithfulness?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "great house" and "little house" in Amos 6:11?**

Answer: The "great house" and "little house" are symbolic representations of the entire social structure of Israel. The "great house" refers to the opulent residences of the wealthy elite, who were the primary targets of Amos's condemnation for their luxury, exploitation, and injustice. The "little house" refers to the more humble dwellings of the common people. By stating that both will be "smitten with breaches" and "clefts," Amos emphasizes the comprehensive and inescapable nature of God's judgment. It means that no one, regardless of their social standing or economic status, will be exempt from the impending divine retribution. The judgment will dismantle the entire fabric of society, from the highest echelons to the lowest.

**How does Amos 6:11 relate to the broader message of the book of Amos?**

Answer: Amos 6:11 is a powerful summation of the core message of the book of Amos: God's righteous judgment against Israel's sin. Throughout the book, Amos condemns Israel for its social injustice, spiritual complacency, and moral corruption. Chapters 1-2 detail judgments against surrounding nations, but then pivot sharply to Israel's own transgressions. Chapters 3-6 are a series of "woes" and indictments against the nation, particularly its wealthy and powerful, who oppressed the poor and lived in self-indulgent luxury (e.g., [Amos 4:1-3](/amos/4-1-3 "Amos 4:1-3 - Cows of Bashan")). Amos 6:11 serves as a climactic declaration that the Lord Himself will execute the promised judgment, dismantling the very structures—their homes and society—that symbolized their pride and false security. It underscores the theme that God's justice is inevitable and inescapable for a people who have repeatedly rejected His covenant commands.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Amos 6:11, with its pronouncement of the Lord's command to smite both the great and little houses, foreshadows a profound truth about the nature of judgment and the ultimate security found in Christ. While Amos speaks of the physical destruction of houses as a consequence of sin, the New Testament reveals that all humanity stands under the judgment of God due to sin, and no earthly "house" or foundation can withstand His righteous scrutiny. Jesus Himself spoke of the futility of building one's life on a foundation other than His words, likening it to a "foolish man who built his house on sand" that collapses when the storms come ([Matthew 7:26-27](/matthew/7-26-27 "Matthew 7:26-27 - The House on Sand")). The ultimate "breaches" and "clefts" are those created by sin, separating humanity from God. However, in Christ, we find the ultimate fulfillment and reversal of this judgment. He is the cornerstone upon whom a new, indestructible "house" is built—His church ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Built on the Apostles and Prophets")). Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Jesus bore the full weight of God's righteous judgment against sin, becoming 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")). Those who are "in Christ" are no longer subject to the condemnation that falls upon the "great house" and "little house" of a fallen world, but are instead made part of God's eternal dwelling, secured by His grace and truth ([Romans 8:1](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1 - No Condemnation in Christ")). Thus, Amos's prophecy of judgment ultimately points to the necessity of Christ's redemptive work, which offers true and lasting security beyond any earthly structure.

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

Amos 3:15

And I will smite the winter house with the summer house; and the houses of ivory shall perish, and the great houses shall have an end, saith the LORD.

Isaiah 55:11

So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper [in the thing] whereto I sent it.

2 Kings 25:9

And he burnt the house of the LORD, and the king's house, and all the houses of Jerusalem, and every great [man's] house burnt he with fire.

Psalms 105:31

He spake, and there came divers sorts of flies, [and] lice in all their coasts.

Psalms 105:16

Moreover he called for a famine upon the land: he brake the whole staff of bread.

Amos 6:8

¶ The Lord GOD hath sworn by himself, saith the LORD the God of hosts, I abhor the excellency of Jacob, and hate his palaces: therefore will I deliver up the city with all that is therein.

Isaiah 10:5

¶ O Assyrian, the rod of mine anger, and the staff in their hand is mine indignation.