Nahum¶

Book summary

Nahum was a prophet, likely in Jerusalem, which was the capital of the Kingdom of Judah. His message to Nineveh — a century after Jonah’s visit — was about the destruction coming to them for their wickedness. In contrast, his message to Judah was one of comfort.

Contents

Nahum
- Chapter 1 — Comfort and judgment
  - v1-7 — God’s nature
  - v8-15 — Comfort for Judah and judgment for Nineveh
- Chapters 2-3 — The fall of Nineveh
  - Ch 2 — Nineveh to fall
  - Ch 3 — Woe to Nineveh

Chapter 1 — Comfort and judgment¶

v1-7 — God’s nature¶

The Lord takes vengeance on his foes

and vents his wrath against his enemies.

The Lord is slow to anger but great in power;

the Lord will not leave the guilty unpunished. (Nahum 1:2-3)

The Lord is good,

a refuge in times of trouble.

He cares for those who trust in him… (Nahum 1:7)

v8-15 — Comfort for Judah and judgment for Nineveh¶

“Although I have afflicted you, Judah,

I will afflict you no more.

Now I will break their yoke from your neck

and tear your shackles away.” (Nahum 1:12-13)

The Lord has given a command concerning you, Nineveh:

“You will have no descendants to bear your name.

I will destroy the images and idols

that are in the temple of your gods.

I will prepare your grave,

for you are vile.” (Nahum 1:14)

Chapters 2-3 — The fall of Nineveh¶

Ch 2 — Nineveh to fall¶

The river gates are thrown open

and the palace collapses.

It is decreed that Nineveh

be exiled and carried away. (Nahum 2:6-7)

Ch 3 — Woe to Nineveh¶

“I am against you,” declares the Lord Almighty.

“I will lift your skirts over your face.

I will show the nations your nakedness

and the kingdoms your shame.

I will pelt you with filth,

I will treat you with contempt

and make you a spectacle.” (Nahum 3:5-6)