What is the meaning of Amos 5:13?

Therefore

• “Therefore” points back to the charges of injustice, idolatry, and hypocrisy that God has just laid out (Amos 5:7-12).

• The word signals an inevitable consequence: divine judgment is already set in motion. Because God’s warnings are sure (Numbers 23:19; Isaiah 55:11), His people must respond decisively.

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the prudent

• “Prudent” describes those who fear the LORD and walk wisely (Proverbs 1:7; 9:10).

• Wisdom here is moral, not merely intellectual. It embraces righteousness, justice, and faithfulness (Micah 6:8).

• These are the believers who still listen to the prophets and submit to God’s revealed will (Psalm 119:99-100).

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keep silent

• Silence is not cowardice; it is discernment. Like “a time to keep silence and a time to speak” (Ecclesiastes 3:7), the prudent recognize that words will not sway a hard-hearted society bent on evil.

• Proverbs 17:28 shows that restraint can protect the righteous from needless conflict and preserve their testimony.

• Jesus modeled this before His accusers (Matthew 26:63), fulfilling Isaiah 53:7 and demonstrating trust in the Father’s justice (1 Peter 2:23).

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in such times

• The setting is a nation steeped in corruption where courts are rigged and the needy are crushed (Amos 5:10-12).

• Speaking truth publicly would likely invite persecution (Matthew 10:16-17).

• When society rejects God’s standards, strategic silence allows the faithful to concentrate on obeying Him, interceding, and preparing for His intervention (Habakkuk 2:3).

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for the days are evil

• The phrase underscores pervasive wickedness—much like Paul’s “because the days are evil” in Ephesians 5:15-16, which urges vigilant living and wise use of time.

• Evil days call for sober self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5) and steadfast hope in God’s certain judgment (2 Peter 3:7).

• The prudent wait for the LORD to act, confident that “the Judge of all the earth” will do right (Genesis 18:25) and that “vengeance is Mine” (Romans 12:19).

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summary

Amos 5:13 teaches that when a culture grows hostile to God’s truth, the wise believer responds with measured silence, trusting God’s justice rather than engaging in futile debate. This restraint is neither compromise nor indifference; it is a faith-filled strategy that guards the tongue, avoids needless provocation, and focuses on living righteously until God Himself intervenes.