Matthew Poole and continuators on Amos 7:14

14 Then answered Amos, and said to Amaziah , I was no prophet , neither was I a prophets son , but I was an herdman , and a gatherer of sycomore fruit .

So soon as this false accuser had under the vizzard of friendship given advice, and withal intimated his resolution to use his Authority to make Amos desist if he did not do it voluntarily; Amos gives him answer

readily, boldly, and yet smoothly, and out-shoots the Court Pontif in his own bow.

Not fearing his person or his power.

Not originally, or by succession, or by study, or by any humane designation and preparation; as many have been,

My Father was no Prophet, nor was I bred up in the school of the Prophets, such as 2 Kings 2.3, 5, 7, 15. and 4.38. and 6.1. Though you call me seer, whether ironically or seriously, I matter not, but assure you I am not such by Art, or Trade, or for a livelihood.

By breeding, choice, and occupation I was and still am an herd-man, and have my concerns in that mystery in or near Tekoah in Iudah, on which I can live, though I prophesie without stipend or salary, I needed not to run into the Prophets work for my bread.

The Tree and Fruit is known by one Name, Palestine abounded with both, and the Fruit was sweet, not large, yet good for food for man, or cattel, as some Fruits are with us; on these I could still, as I formerly did, live, and be content.

Marginal references: 1 King. 20▪35.; chap. 1.1.; Or, wild figs.