Born in the city of Tekoa in Judea, the Holy Prophet Amos grew up in conditions of poverty. He spent his days in nature, taking care of his family’s flocks.
The Lord called him to His service, commanding him to leave Judea and go to Israel in order to bring back the people who had been led astray into idolatry. The time of his ministry coincided with the reign of Jeroboam, when the Israelites had come to worship the golden calves.
Saint Amos, though a simple shepherd, preached the word of the Lord and foretold the disasters that would befall Israel and the surrounding nations because of their sins. He called them to repent and have faith in the true God. However, the people often ignored him.
The pagan priest Amaziah reported the prophet’s teachings to the king, hoping to turn him against Amos. However, the king did not persecute him. Filled with anger, Amaziah himself began to chase him. Despite threats and violence, the saint continued to carry out his mission. In response to the priest, who sought to drive him away, he declared that he had been called by the Lord and that he would continue to preach.
As a result, the saint was beaten to death. He ended his life in his homeland of Tekoa, where he was also buried.
