Definition: I have sent among you the pestilence after the manner of Egypt: your young men have I slain with the sword, and have taken away your horses; and I have made the stink of your camps to come up unto your nostrils: yet have ye not returned unto me, saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Amos 4:10. It’s a really powerful and somewhat unsettling passage about God’s judgment. Here’s a breakdown in simpler terms: The Core Idea: God is very displeased with the people of Israel. He’s essentially saying, “I’m not happy with you.” He’s using vivid imagery to illustrate this displeasure. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “I have sent among you the pestilence…” : This is a metaphor for a widespread plague or disaster – something that causes great suffering and death. It wasn't just one sickness; it was a devastating loss of life. "...after the manner of Egypt." : This is a really important part. The Egyptians were a powerful, wealthy nation in ancient times. They controlled trade routes and had a large army. God is comparing this situation to the devastation caused by Egypt – a nation that was incredibly powerful but ultimately brought ruin. “your young men have I slain with the sword…” : God is pointing out that Israel’s leaders were actively fighting each other, and perhaps even attacking their own people. This suggests a period of conflict and instability. “…and have taken away your horses.” : This symbolizes a loss of freedom, mobility, and possibly hope for the future. The soldiers and leaders are no longer able to move or travel freely. “and I have made the stink of your camps to come up unto your nostrils…” : This is a dramatic image. It means God’s displeasure is so intense that it's overwhelming his people – literally, he’s breathing down their necks! It's a feeling of being suffocated by his disapproval. “yet have ye not returned unto me, saith the LORD.” : This is the crucial part. God is saying, "I'm not satisfied with this. I'm not happy with your lack of repentance or return to my guidance." He’s declaring that He is the one who has been wronged and needs their forgiveness and return to him. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: Amos 4:10 isn’t just about a physical plague. It’s a warning about spiritual neglect and a call for repentance. God is saying, "I'm disappointed in you. You've been acting like a nation that needs to be cleansed by my judgment." It’s a message of judgment and a plea for change. In essence, it’s a dramatic representation of God’s displeasure with Israel’s behavior and a call for them to turn back to him. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Connect this verse to other parts of the Bible? Discuss the historical context of this passage?