Amos 4-6

There are those who oppress the innocent and take bribes
   and deprive the poor of justice in the courts.
Therefore the prudent keep quiet in such times,
   for the times are evil. (Amos 5:12b-13)

I've contemplated these two sentences for a short time, and I am wondering what to make of the phrase, "the prudent keep quiet." The prophet does not keep quiet. Hearing and heeding his call from God, he boldly condemns oppression, bribery, and evil. So is the prophet imprudent, or is he using the term "prudent" in a sarcastic way? 

Here is another possibility: The times are so evil that, unless one is a God-called prophet, it wouldn't serve any purpose to advise, challenge, or condemn such widespread wrongdoing. Jesus said something akin to this in his proverb, "...don't throw your pearls to the pigs..." (Matthew 7:6), which I take to mean that one must consider one's audience when selecting wise words to be shared. I really don't care for this interpretation, because it feels like "giving up." "Things are so bad right now, I'll just keep quiet." Huh? 

How will the movement toward justice, righteousness, and peace begin, if not by sound advice, stern challenge, and bold encouragement? When did prudence equate to stifling plainly-spoken truth? I don't get it.

I suppose the prophet may be saying the prudent will wait for the movement of God before speaking in times like these. Be sure it's of God before taking action. Prayerfully discern God's desires; then go for it!