### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻÂmôwç**, represented by `{{H5986}}`, is defined as **burdensome**. It identifies a specific Israelite prophet, Amos, and appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. The name itself foreshadows the weighty and challenging nature of the messages he was called to deliver.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Amos is introduced as a prophet from Tekoa, who was "among the **herdmen** `{{H5349}}`" [[Amos 1:1]]. His prophetic work took place during the reigns of King Uzziah of Judah and King Jeroboam of Israel. The LORD speaks directly to Amos, questioning him in visions, "Amos, what seest thou?" ([[Amos 7:8]], [[Amos 8:2]]). This divine calling puts him in conflict with the religious establishment. Amaziah, the priest of Bethel, accuses him of treason, saying, "**Amos** `{{H5986}}` hath **conspired** `{{H7194}}` against thee" [[Amos 7:10]] and that the land cannot **bear** `{{H3557}}` his words. Amos is commanded by Amaziah to **flee** `{{H1272}}` to Judah and prophesy there [[Amos 7:12]], but he stands his ground, clarifying his humble origins [[Amos 7:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the identity and ministry of Amos:
* `{{H5349}}` **nôqêd** (herdman, sheepmaster): This word identifies Amos's occupation, setting him apart from the traditional prophetic schools [[Amos 1:1]]. It establishes him as a layman chosen by God.
* `{{H951}}` **bôwqêr** (herdman): Used by Amos to describe himself, this term reinforces his identity as a common laborer rather than a trained religious figure [[Amos 7:14]].
* `{{H1103}}` **bâlaç** (gatherer): This specifically refers to his work as a "gatherer of sycomore fruit," which involved pinching the figs to help them ripen [[Amos 7:14]]. It points to a humble, agricultural background.
* `{{H2374}}` **chôzeh** (seer): This is the title Amaziah uses to address Amos, likely as a formal or possibly dismissive term for a prophet [[Amos 7:12]]. It contrasts with Amos's own description of himself as a simple herdsman.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5986}}` is demonstrated through the life of the prophet who bore the name.
* **The Unconventional Messenger:** God sovereignly calls Amos not from a priestly or prophetic lineage, but from a life as a **herdman** `{{H951}}` and a **gatherer** `{{H1103}}` of fruit [[Amos 7:14]]. This emphasizes that God’s authority is not dependent on human credentials.
* **A "Burdensome" Word:** Living up to his name, Amos delivers difficult prophecies of judgment. He declares that Jeroboam will **die** `{{H4191}}` by the **sword** `{{H2719}}` and Israel will be sent into captivity [[Amos 7:11]]. This message is so challenging that it is deemed unbearable by the ruling powers [[Amos 7:10]].
* **Divine Authority Over Human Institutions:** The ministry of Amos is characterized by direct revelation, where he **saw** `{{H2372}}` visions concerning Israel [[Amos 1:1]]. His conflict with Amaziah the priest highlights the tension between a true prophetic word from God and the established religious system that seeks to control it.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5986}}` is far more than a name; it embodies the character and mission of the prophet Amos. His name, meaning "burdensome," perfectly captures the difficult nature of his divinely-appointed task. Chosen from a humble life of labor, Amos demonstrates that God empowers unlikely individuals to speak truth to power, even when that truth is a heavy burden for both the messenger and his audience to bear.
TRV