Exploring the Bible // Nahum
The book of Nahum was written by the prophet of the same name, a man from Elkosh (although no one is sure where that is today). We don’t know much about him but we can conclude the book was written sometime between 663 and 612 B.C., assumed because the book accounts for the recent fall of Thebes in Egypt but foretells of destruction to come in 612.
The book of Nahum was written to the people of Nineveh, nearly 150 years after Jonah had been there. The people of the city had repented at that time but now under Assyrian rule, the people had returned to their idolatrous ways. Nineveh had not only turned back from God but was perhaps living even further from God’s truth.
The book of Nahum paints a vivid picture of God's justice and his sovereignty over the affairs of nations. The prophet delivers a message of impending destruction, focusing on the city of Nineveh, which had once repented at the preaching of Jonah but had returned to its wicked ways. Nahum's prophecies are characterized by vivid and intense imagery, using metaphors and poetic language to convey the impending downfall of Nineveh.
The book can be divided into three main sections:
The Wrath of God Declared (Chapter 1):
Nahum begins by describing the Lord's attributes of jealousy, anger, and avenging nature. He emphasizes that the Lord is slow to anger but also just, and he will not let the guilty go unpunished. Nahum envisions the Lord as a whirlwind and a consuming fire, ready to unleash his fury upon Nineveh. This chapter sets the stage for the impending judgment that Nahum foresees.
The Judgment on Nineveh (Chapter 2):
In this section, Nahum graphically describes the impending destruction of Nineveh. He portrays the city's defenders as being overwhelmed by the attacking forces, using vivid and brutal imagery to depict the chaos and devastation that will ensue. The once-mighty city will be laid to waste, and its wealth and power will crumble.
The Fall of Nineveh Celebrated (Chapter 3):
Nahum concludes his message by describing Nineveh's fall and the rejoicing that will take place among the nations that had suffered under its cruelty. He portrays Nineveh as a harlot, using powerful symbolism to illustrate the city's moral decay and downfall. Despite its past strength, Nineveh will be utterly destroyed and left in ruins.
In summary, the book of Nahum is a concise but potent prophetic message that emphasizes the righteousness and justice of God. It serves as a reminder that even the mightiest of nations are subject to divine judgment if they persist in wickedness and oppression. Nahum's prophecies provide a glimpse into God's character, his patience, and his ultimate commitment to justice. Through vivid imagery and poetic language, the book of Nahum serves as a solemn warning and a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.
What Can We Learn
Nahum lived in a dark time of idolatry and unfaithfulness to God, yet he remained faithful and was convinced of God’s goodness. We, too, walk in a corrupted culture, and at times it may seem hopeless. We might wonder what we can do or feel as if there’s no difference we could make. However, God is in control and ultimately brings justice and good. And we can remain steadfast in such times.
Memory Verse
“The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.” Nahum 1:7 (ESV)