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Amos was written by the prophet Amos, a shepherd and fig tree farmer from Tekoa in Judah (1:1, 7:14). Despite having no prophetic training, God called him to prophesy against the northern kingdom of Israel around 760-750 BC during the prosperous reign of Jeroboam II. Amos is one of the earliest writing prophets.

Amos contains 9 chapters: oracles against surrounding nations and Israel (chapters 1-2), three sermons against Israel (chapters 3-6), five visions of judgment (chapters 7-9:10), and a concluding promise of restoration (9:11-15).

The main theme of Amos is social justice as an expression of covenant faithfulness. Amos condemns Israel's exploitation of the poor, corrupt courts, and hollow religious rituals. God demands justice — 'Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream' (5:24) — one of the most powerful statements on social ethics in Scripture.

Key teachings include: judgment on nations for crimes against humanity (chapters 1-2), the principle 'you only have I chosen... therefore I will punish you' — greater privilege means greater responsibility (3:2), condemnation of wealthy women exploiting the poor (4:1), 'I hate, I despise your religious festivals' — ritual without justice is worthless (5:21-24), and the five visions of coming judgment (chapters 7-9).

Amos establishes that authentic worship of God requires justice and compassion toward the vulnerable — a theme echoed by Jesus (Matthew 23:23), James (James 2:1-7), and throughout the prophetic tradition. Martin Luther King Jr. famously quoted Amos 5:24 in his 'I Have a Dream' speech. The book's promise to rebuild 'David's fallen tent' (9:11) is quoted in Acts 15:16-17 regarding Gentile inclusion.