Amos 4:1-3 - You cows!

4:1

Bashan was an area of rich pasture land. Amos uses the term “cows of Bashan” to refer to the rich women. These women delighted in their wealth and showed no concern for the poor. Indeed, they oppressed the poor and crushed the needy. We see this characteristic today as well. Perhaps Mugabe’s wife in Zimbabwe is a good example. Now before anyone starts thinking Amos has it in for women, let’s think about this a little more closely. All people, men and women, are equally sinful. Moreover, it is the wealthy women who are the target here, not all women. Wealth, even if initially gained honestly, can easily lead to pride, and to having a disregard for the poor.

4:2,3

No one knows exactly what the mention of fish hooks is referring to, but it might be referring to the Assyrian practice of dragging their captives along. Or it may just be a general reference to fishing. In either case, the currently proud and rich women would soon become victims. Verse 3 is the only mention of Harmon, and no one is quite sure where that is either. However, the main point is that judgement is coming. Wealth and position in society can be very deceptive, making us think we are something and are in control of our lives, and the lives of others. The Lord is the one who is in control, and in all circumstances, whether we are doing well or are suffering, we need to have our minds focused on this truth, otherwise we will not see things properly and will make wrong decisions.