Question

Explain the hypocritical religious practices of the Israelites during the time of Prophet Amos.

Answer 1

1. Insincere worship - The Israelite engaged in a lot of religious rites at the temple of Bethel, which were done in accordance with the covenant way of life, but the people who took parts were unjust, corrupt and always oppressed the poor.
2. Empty sacrifices - The Israelites used to bring sacrifices and tithes to Bethel and Gilgal, which were referred to as empty because God was interested in sincere worship.
3. Syncretism – The Israelites worshipped Yahweh alongside other gods, who had been introduced to them by foreigners.
4. Idolatry – The Israelites worshipped idol gods of the Canaanites and other pagan gods.
5. Worshippers went to holy places to satisfy their own desires other than pleasing God.
6. Worshippers were making offering as a show off and not out of love for God.
7. They stole from the poor and offered to God.