Learn more about Amoz

Introduction to Amoz

Amoz, whose name likely means "Strong" or "Brave," is a minor but significant figure in the Bible. He is best known as the father of the prophet Isaiah. Though little is recorded about Amoz himself, his role as Isaiah’s father places him in the lineage of one of Israel’s greatest prophets, whose messages shaped the spiritual and theological understanding of God’s people. Amoz is mentioned in connection with Isaiah’s prophetic call and ministry during the reigns of four Judean kings.

Amoz Pronunciation

“Amoz” is pronounced as AY-moz, with emphasis on the first syllable.

Amoz in the Bible

Connection to Isaiah

Amoz is mentioned in the introduction to the Book of Isaiah: “The vision concerning Judah and Jerusalem that Isaiah son of Amoz saw during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah” (Isaiah 1:1). This establishes Amoz’s identity and situates Isaiah’s ministry in a specific historical and political context.

Tradition and Influence

While the Bible does not provide further details about Amoz, Jewish tradition suggests that he may have been of noble or royal lineage. Some sources propose that Amoz was a brother of King Amaziah of Judah, though this claim is not explicitly supported by Scripture. If true, this connection could explain Isaiah’s access to the royal court and his role as a prophet to kings.

Amoz in Biblical History and Context

Amoz lived during a time of political upheaval and spiritual challenge in Judah. The four kings mentioned in Isaiah 1:1 ruled during a period marked by both prosperity and threats from surrounding empires, such as Assyria. Amoz’s son, Isaiah, became a pivotal figure in calling Judah to repentance and faithfulness while offering visions of God’s ultimate plan for salvation and restoration.

Primary Related Scriptures

• Isaiah 1:1: Introduction to Isaiah as the son of Amoz.
• 2 Kings 19:2: Isaiah’s role as a prophet during King Hezekiah’s reign. While Amoz is not mentioned directly, his legacy continues through his son’s ministry.
• Isaiah 6:1-8: The calling of Isaiah, reflecting the influence of Amoz’s lineage.

Theological Significance of Amoz

Though Amoz himself does not play a prominent role in the biblical narrative, his connection to Isaiah underscores the importance of familial and spiritual legacies in God’s work. Isaiah’s profound impact on Israel’s theology and eschatology reflects not only divine calling but also the influence of his family background.

Related Terms and Meanings

- Isaiah: The son of Amoz and one of the major prophets of Israel. - Judah: The southern kingdom where Amoz and Isaiah lived and ministered. - Prophet: A role embodied by Isaiah, carrying forward the spiritual heritage of his father.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Amoz

- Jewish tradition holds that Amoz was of royal descent, possibly a relative of King Amaziah, though this is not directly confirmed in Scripture. - Amoz’s name, meaning “Strong,” could reflect the strength of character necessary to raise and influence a prophet of Isaiah’s stature. - The legacy of Amoz is intrinsically tied to Isaiah’s writings, which contain some of the most quoted passages in the New Testament and Christian theology. - While Amoz is a lesser-known figure, his mention in Isaiah highlights the familial and historical grounding of the prophetic ministry in ancient Israel.