The answer is: 12

{Hosea 12:10} - The Twelve Minor Prophets, including books such as Amos and Micah, convey vital messages of God's judgment and hope. Interestingly, the term "minor" refers to their shorter writings, not their significance. Collectively, they serve as a bridge between the Old Testament Law and the coming Messiah in the New Testament.

The "Minor Prophets" spot a special place in the divine narrative, often underestimated because their books are shorter in word count but laden with powerful messages. Indeed, each of the 12 prophets—like Hosea, Amos, and Micah—spoke at crucial moments in Israel’s history, addressing issues like social justice, idolatry, and divine mercy.

Consider this: Hosea’s use of marital imagery to showcase God’s relationship with Israel is nothing short of poetry in motion. The familiar verse, "I desire mercy, not sacrifice" (Hosea 6:6), resonates through centuries, reminding many about the importance of heart over ritual.

Moreover, these prophets operated during times of great moral decay—like Amos who boldly confronted the corrupt elite of his time, invoking justice for the oppressed. His words still reverberate today, making him a much-respected figure when discussing social ethics.

Another interesting nugget: the term "minor" might also reflect the lesser-known status of these prophets compared to the likes of Isaiah or Jeremiah. Yet, it's essential to spotlight that their message is life-transforming and very much needed, echoing into our contemporary spiritual and ethical discussions.

As their prophecies foreshadow the arrival of the Messiah, they serve not purely as historical records, but as ongoing dialogues about justice, hope, and divine love that engage every generation anew. Each of these books invites us to explore how the voices of the past continue to speak to our hearts today.