Amos 9:14

KJV

And I will bring again the captivity of my people of Israel, and they shall build the waste cities, and inhabit [them]; and they shall plant vineyards, and drink the wine thereof; they shall also make gardens, and eat the fruit of them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will bring again {H7725} the captivity {H7622} of my people {H5971} of Israel {H3478}, and they shall build {H1129} the waste {H8074} cities {H5892}, and inhabit {H3427} them; and they shall plant {H5193} vineyards {H3754}, and drink {H8354} the wine {H3196} thereof; they shall also make {H6213} gardens {H1593}, and eat {H398} the fruit {H6529} of them.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will restore the fortunes of my people Isra'el; they will rebuild and inhabit the ruined cities; they will plant vineyards and drink their wine, cultivate gardens and eat their fruit.

Berean Standard Bible

I will restore My people Israel from captivity; they will rebuild and inhabit the ruined cities. They will plant vineyards and drink their wine; they will make gardens and eat their fruit.

American Standard Version

And I will bring back the captivity of my people Israel, and they shall build the waste cities, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and drink the wine thereof; they shall also make gardens, and eat the fruit of them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Amos 9:14 presents a profound prophecy of restoration for Israel, marking a dramatic shift from the preceding messages of judgment. It vividly depicts God's sovereign act of reversing the desolation caused by exile, promising a glorious return to their land where they will rebuild ruined cities, re-establish agricultural prosperity through vineyards and gardens, and enjoy the fruit of their labor in lasting peace and security. This verse underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, portraying a future of abundance and settled habitation after a period of divine discipline.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Amos 9:14 is part of the climactic concluding oracle of hope in the book of Amos, beginning in [Amos 9:11](/amos/9-11 "Amos 9:11 - The Restoration of David's Fallen Booth"). The preceding chapters are dominated by stern pronouncements of judgment against Israel and surrounding nations for their social injustice, idolatry, and religious hypocrisy. The prophet meticulously details the coming destruction and exile as a consequence of their sin. However, from [Amos 9:11](/amos/9-11 "Amos 9:11 - The Restoration of David's Fallen Booth") onward, the tone shifts dramatically to one of divine restoration and renewal, promising the rebuilding of David's fallen tent and a future of unparalleled blessing. This concluding vision serves as a powerful testament to God's ultimate faithfulness to His covenant people, even after severe discipline, ensuring that the book ends not in despair but in a glorious anticipation of God's redemptive work.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Amos prophesied during the reigns of Uzziah in Judah and Jeroboam II in Israel (circa 760-750 BC), a period of relative prosperity for both kingdoms, yet marked by deep social inequality and spiritual apostasy, particularly in the northern kingdom of Israel. The "waste cities" and "captivity" referenced in [Amos 9:14](/amos/9-14 "Amos 9:14 - Prophecy of Restoration") foreshadow the impending Assyrian and later Babylonian exiles, which would indeed devastate the land and scatter the people. For an agrarian society like ancient Israel, the imagery of building cities, planting vineyards, and making gardens was deeply significant. It represented not just economic recovery but a return to a settled, secure, and blessed existence, free from the constant threat of invasion and famine. The ability to "drink the wine thereof" and "eat the fruit of them" symbolized the enjoyment of the land's bounty without fear of confiscation by enemies, a stark contrast to the curses of the covenant found in [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Amos and the broader prophetic literature. The primary theme is **Divine Restoration and Reversal of Fortune**, where God actively intervenes to undo the consequences of judgment and re-establish His people in their land. This is a testament to God's **Unwavering Faithfulness to His Covenant**, demonstrating that His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (e.g., [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "Genesis 12:1-3 - The Abrahamic Covenant")) endure despite Israel's disobedience. Furthermore, the detailed imagery of rebuilding and cultivation highlights **Physical and Agricultural Renewal**, portraying a land transformed from desolation to abundance, reflecting the blessings promised for obedience (e.g., [Deuteronomy 28:1-14](/deuteronomy/28-1-14 "Deuteronomy 28:1-14 - Blessings for Obedience")). Finally, the ability to enjoy the fruits of their labor in their own land speaks to **Security, Permanence, and Peace**, a vision of lasting well-being that contrasts sharply with the instability and displacement experienced during exile, echoing the idyllic picture of peace found in [Micah 4:4](/micah/4-4 "Micah 4:4 - Under One's Vine and Fig Tree").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **bring again (Hebrew, _shûwb'_):** This primitive root means "to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively." In the context of "bring again the captivity," it signifies a profound reversal of state or fortune. It's not merely a return but a restoration, a turning back from a state of desolation and exile to one of prosperity and presence. The action is initiated by God, emphasizing His sovereign power to reverse what seemed irreversible.
* **captivity (Hebrew, _shᵉbûwth'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to take captive," this noun refers to "exile, concretely, prisoners; figuratively, a former state of prosperity." While it literally denotes the state of being exiled or the body of captives, in prophetic idiom like "bring again the captivity" (shuv shevut), it often transcends a simple return of people. It encompasses a comprehensive restoration of the nation's well-being, status, and prosperity, implying a reversal of the entire condition of exile and a return to a state of flourishing.
* **build (Hebrew, _bânâh'_):N** A primitive root meaning "to build (literally and figuratively)." This word speaks to the act of constructing or reconstructing. In the context of "waste cities," it signifies the physical rebuilding of structures and infrastructure that have been destroyed. Figuratively, it implies the re-establishment of community, order, and civilization where there was ruin. This act of building is a tangible sign of stability, permanence, and a return to a settled existence after the disruption of war and displacement.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will bring again the captivity of my people of Israel,"**: This opening clause establishes divine agency. God Himself declares His intention to reverse the state of exile and desolation that has afflicted His people. The phrase "bring again the captivity" (Hebrew: *shuv shevut*) is a powerful idiom signifying a complete and comprehensive restoration, not merely a physical return of exiles but a full reversal of their fortunes, from suffering and dispersion to renewed prosperity and national well-being. It underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant, even after His people have faced judgment.
* **"and they shall build the waste cities, and inhabit [them];"**: This clause describes the immediate, tangible outcome of God's restoration. The people, once displaced and their land ravaged, will actively participate in rebuilding what was destroyed. "Waste cities" vividly portrays the extent of the desolation caused by war and abandonment. The ability to "build" and then "inhabit" these cities signifies a return to security, stability, and a settled life, marking an end to their wandering and vulnerability. It speaks to the re-establishment of community and societal order.
* **"and they shall plant vineyards, and drink the wine thereof;"**: This part of the prophecy shifts to agricultural prosperity and the enjoyment of the land's bounty. Planting vineyards was a significant long-term investment, indicating confidence in future peace and security. The ability to "drink the wine thereof" implies not only successful harvests but also the peaceful enjoyment of the produce without fear of enemies confiscating it or disrupting their labor. It symbolizes joy, abundance, and the blessing of God upon their land and efforts.
* **"they shall also make gardens, and eat the fruit of them."**: Complementing the imagery of vineyards, the mention of "gardens" further emphasizes the richness and fertility of the restored land. Gardens, often for personal consumption of fruits and vegetables, represent sustained provision and the intimate connection between the people and their land. The ability to "eat the fruit of them" reiterates the theme of enjoying the full benefit of their labor and the land's produce, signifying a state of complete self-sufficiency, peace, and divine blessing.

#### Literary Devices
Amos 9:14 is rich in **Imagery**, painting a vivid picture of restoration. The phrases "waste cities," "plant vineyards," "drink the wine thereof," "make gardens," and "eat the fruit of them" appeal directly to the senses, allowing the reader to visualize the transformation from desolation to lush abundance. This sensory detail emphasizes the tangible and holistic nature of the promised blessing. The verse also employs a form of **Parallelism**, particularly in the repeated structure of action and enjoyment: "build... and inhabit," "plant... and drink," "make... and eat." This rhythmic repetition reinforces the comprehensive nature of the restoration, showing that every aspect of life—habitation, agriculture, and sustenance—will be renewed. Furthermore, the entire passage functions as **Symbolism**. The "waste cities" symbolize the devastation of judgment and exile, while the rebuilding, planting, and eating of fruit symbolize the blessings of the covenant, the restoration of order, prosperity, and the joy of living securely in God's favor. The land itself, made fruitful, symbolizes God's renewed presence and blessing among His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Amos 9:14 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering faithfulness and His ultimate redemptive purposes for His people. Despite severe judgment for their sin, God's covenant love prevails, promising a future where desolation is reversed and prosperity reigns. This promise reveals a God who not only disciplines but also delights in restoring His creation and His chosen people to a state of flourishing. It underscores the biblical theme that God's judgment is never His final word, but rather a means to bring about repentance and ultimately, restoration. The physical and agricultural blessings described are a tangible manifestation of God's renewed favor and the re-establishment of the covenant relationship, echoing the original blessings of Eden and the promised land. This vision of a secure, fruitful, and inhabited land points to the ultimate hope of God dwelling among His people in perfect peace and abundance.

* [Deuteronomy 30:3-5](/deuteronomy/30-3-5 "Deuteronomy 30:3-5 - Return from Exile and Restoration")
* [Isaiah 61:4](/isaiah/61-4 "Isaiah 61:4 - Rebuilding Ancient Ruins")
* [Jeremiah 32:41](/jeremiah/32-41 "Jeremiah 32:41 - God's Delight in Doing Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Amos 9:14 offers a profound wellspring of hope for believers navigating periods of personal or communal desolation. Just as ancient Israel faced the literal destruction of their cities and the loss of their land, we too can experience "waste cities" in our lives—broken relationships, shattered dreams, spiritual barrenness, or the aftermath of personal failures. This verse reminds us that God is the ultimate Restorer, capable of bringing life and beauty out of ruin. It encourages us to cultivate a steadfast trust in His sovereign power to reverse seemingly irreversible circumstances. God's faithfulness, demonstrated in His promise to Israel, assures us that His plans for our ultimate good and spiritual fruitfulness will prevail, even when our present reality seems bleak. We are called to participate in this divine restoration, not passively waiting but actively engaging in the "rebuilding" of our lives and communities, trusting that God will provide the "vineyards" and "gardens" for our sustenance and joy. This promise inspires us to look beyond immediate difficulties to the enduring hope of God's transformative work, both in our individual lives and in the broader world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "waste cities" or desolate areas currently exist in your own life (e.g., relationships, spiritual disciplines, personal habits, dreams)?**
* **How does the promise of God's active "bringing again the captivity" encourage you to trust in His restorative power in those areas?**
* **In what ways can you actively "build," "plant," and "make gardens" in your life, trusting God for the "wine" and "fruit" of your labor?**
* **How does this prophecy of physical restoration point to a deeper spiritual restoration that God desires for His people today?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the phrase "bring again the captivity" in Amos 9:14?**

Answer: The phrase "bring again the captivity" (Hebrew: *shuv shevut*) is a rich prophetic idiom that signifies much more than simply bringing people back from exile. While it certainly includes the physical return of captives, its deeper meaning in biblical prophecy denotes a comprehensive reversal of fortune, a complete restoration of a people's well-being, prosperity, and national status. It implies a turning point initiated by God Himself, where He reverses the consequences of judgment and restores His people to a state of flourishing, security, and abundance in their land. This idiom is used frequently in the prophets to describe God's ultimate redemptive act for Israel, as seen in passages like [Jeremiah 29:14](/jeremiah/29-14 "Jeremiah 29:14 - God's Promise to Bring Them Back") and [Ezekiel 16:53](/ezekiel/16-53 "Ezekiel 16:53 - Restoration of Sodom and Samaria").

**How does this prophecy relate to the physical land of Israel today?**

Answer: Amos 9:14, along with many other Old Testament prophecies (e.g., [Isaiah 11:11-12](/isaiah/11-11-12 "Isaiah 11:11-12 - Return of the Remnant") and [Ezekiel 36:24-38](/ezekiel/36-24-38 "Ezekiel 36:24-38 - Restoration of Israel")), is understood by many to have a literal fulfillment in the physical return of the Jewish people to the land of Israel and the rebuilding of the nation, particularly in the 20th century. The imagery of rebuilding "waste cities" and making the land fruitful resonates with the historical development of modern Israel. However, it is also important to recognize that these prophecies often have multi-layered fulfillments, pointing not only to physical restoration but also to a spiritual reality in the New Covenant through Christ, and ultimately to the new heavens and new earth where God's people will dwell in perfect peace and abundance (see [Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Amos 9:14 speaks directly to the physical restoration of Israel, its ultimate and most profound fulfillment is found in Jesus Christ and the New Covenant. The "fallen booth of David" that God promises to raise up in [Amos 9:11](/amos/9-11 "Amos 9:11 - The Restoration of David's Fallen Booth") is understood in the New Testament to refer to the spiritual kingdom established by Christ, drawing both Jews and Gentiles into one body. As stated in [Acts 15:16-17](/acts/15-16-17 "Acts 15:16-17 - James's Quote of Amos"), James quotes Amos to explain the inclusion of Gentiles into the church, demonstrating that the restoration of God's people is now broader than ethnic Israel alone. The "building the waste cities" and "planting vineyards" finds its spiritual parallel in the church, which is God's new temple ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone")) and a community called to bear spiritual fruit ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Abiding in the Vine")). Through Christ, believers are brought out of the "captivity" of sin and death into new life and spiritual freedom ([Romans 8:2](/romans/8-2 "Romans 8:2 - Freedom from the Law of Sin and Death")). The promise of dwelling securely and eating the fruit of their labor foreshadows the abundant life found in Christ ([John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - Abundant Life")) and the ultimate consummation in the new heavens and new earth, where God's people will dwell with Him in perfect peace and unending prosperity ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")). Thus, Amos 9:14 points to the comprehensive, spiritual, and eternal restoration inaugurated by Christ and fully realized in His coming kingdom.

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 61:4

¶ And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations.

Jeremiah 30:3

For, lo, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will bring again the captivity of my people Israel and Judah, saith the LORD: and I will cause them to return to the land that I gave to their fathers, and they shall possess it.

Jeremiah 30:18

¶ Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will bring again the captivity of Jacob's tents, and have mercy on his dwellingplaces; and the city shall be builded upon her own heap, and the palace shall remain after the manner thereof.

Ezekiel 28:26

And they shall dwell safely therein, and shall build houses, and plant vineyards; yea, they shall dwell with confidence, when I have executed judgments upon all those that despise them round about them; and they shall know that I [am] the LORD their God.

Jeremiah 31:28

And it shall come to pass, [that] like as I have watched over them, to pluck up, and to break down, and to throw down, and to destroy, and to afflict; so will I watch over them, to build, and to plant, saith the LORD.

Psalms 53:6

Oh that the salvation of Israel [were come] out of Zion! When God bringeth back the captivity of his people, Jacob shall rejoice, [and] Israel shall be glad.

Isaiah 65:21

And they shall build houses, and inhabit [them]; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them.