There is a short introduction available for the book of Nahum. You can read it here.
Key Themes
The book of Nahum is a prophetic book in the Old Testament that focuses on the impending judgment of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire. Nahum’s prophecies are directed primarily against Nineveh, which had previously repented at the preaching of Jonah but had since returned to its violent and oppressive ways. The book of Nahum serves as both a warning to Assyria and a message of comfort to Judah, who had suffered under Assyrian domination. The key themes include:
- Divine Judgment Against Nineveh: The central theme of Nahum is the proclamation of God’s judgment against Nineveh. The book vividly describes the coming destruction of the city as a punishment for its cruelty, arrogance, and persistent wickedness. This theme emphasizes the certainty of God’s judgment against nations that oppose Him and oppress others, illustrating that no power is beyond God’s reach.
- The Justice and Vengeance of God: Nahum portrays God as a just and avenging deity who will not leave the guilty unpunished. The book highlights God’s righteous anger against sin and injustice, particularly as it relates to the oppression and violence perpetrated by Nineveh. This theme reinforces the idea that God is committed to upholding justice and that He will act decisively against those who persist in evil.
- The Sovereignty of God Over Nations: Nahum affirms God’s sovereignty over all nations, including mighty empires like Assyria. The prophecy declares that God is in control of the rise and fall of nations and that He will bring down those who act with arrogance and brutality. This theme underscores the belief that God governs the affairs of the world and that human power is ultimately subject to His will.
- Comfort for Judah: While Nahum’s message is one of judgment against Nineveh, it also serves as a message of comfort and hope for Judah. The downfall of Nineveh is presented as a cause for celebration among those who have suffered under Assyrian oppression. This theme highlights the idea that God’s judgment on the wicked brings relief and deliverance to the oppressed, reassuring the faithful that God will act on their behalf.
- The Certainty of God’s Word: Nahum emphasizes the certainty and inevitability of God’s pronouncements. The prophet’s declarations about Nineveh’s downfall are portrayed as definite and unstoppable, reflecting the theme that God’s word is powerful and will always come to pass. This theme serves as a reminder of the reliability and authority of God’s promises, whether of judgment or salvation.
The book of Nahum is a powerful and vivid portrayal of God’s justice and sovereignty, particularly in the context of His judgment against oppressive and violent nations. It serves as both a warning to those who persist in evil and a message of hope to those who suffer under tyranny. Through its themes of divine judgment, justice, and the certainty of God’s word, Nahum provides a profound reflection on the nature of God’s dealings with the nations and His commitment to defending the oppressed.
What I Noticed Today (Nahum)
Nahum 1-3
Each chapter of Nahum has a distinct message. Nahum 1 is a victory psalm celebrating the Lord’s victory over Nineveh (before it happens). Nahum 2 explains what the Lord will do to bring about the destruction of Nineveh. Nahum 3 explains the reasons for God’s judgment against Nineveh.
Nahum 1
In verse 1, Nahum describes his prophecy as an “oracle.”
Note: The word oracle may also be translated as “burden” or “word.” It was used in conjunction with a message received from God either to provide guidance or to answer a question.
In verses 2-8, Nahum sings a victory hymn to God. God is a jealous God who will avenge His enemies. He is slow to anger but great in power and will not ignore the guilty. No one can withstand His indignation or the heat of His anger. He will make an end to His enemies.
Note: Some translations of verse 8 specifically mention Nineveh. Nineveh is not in the Hebrew text but is clearly intended by the context of the passage (v. 1).
In verses 9-11, Nahum says whatever Nineveh is plotting against the Lord will not succeed.
In verses 12-15, the Lord has commanded Nineveh to be destroyed with no place to worship because they are vile. This will be good news to the people of Judah because Nineveh will be cut off. Judah should resume their worship festivals and fulfill their vows.
Nahum 2
In verses 1-6, Nahum describes the “scatterer” who will come against Nineveh. The Lord’s army will plunder those who plunder Judah and Israel.
In verses 7-13, Nineveh is destroyed; plundered until nothing is left. There is only desolation and ruin where the palace once stood (the reference to the lion’s den). The Lord is against Nineveh. He will burn their chariots, and the sword will devour their young lions (princes) until there is not even a messenger left.
Nahum 3
In verses 1-7, Nahum pronounces a woe on the city of Nineveh (in this case the woe is the notice of impending judgment & death). Nineveh was a city of blood and lies.
Note: Nineveh was known for its brutal treatment of their enemies. They would maim captives by cutting off body parts, impale them on stakes and strip off their skin, and cut off enemy’s heads and pile the skulls at the entrance of the city.
When God attacked, there would be corpses everywhere.
God was opposed to the Ninevites because they trampled on the innocent. Because of this, He would bring shame upon them. There will be no one to grieve for Nineveh and no one to comfort them.
In verses 8-11, Nahum calls out how the Assyrians conquered Thebes (in Egypt) saying it would be no different for Nineveh. None of Thebe’s allies were a help to her, and the people were sent into exile. The Assyrians were ruthless with the people of Thebes, and so God would bring similar ruthlessness to Nineveh.
In verses 8-12, Nineveh’s fortresses would be of no help. Their enemies would set fire to the city gates and rush in taking the city. After the fire would come the sword of the armies as numerous as grasshoppers. The people will be scattered, and the leaders will be gone (no shepherds). When people hear of the fall of Nineveh, they will clap their hands.
What did you notice in your study today? Feel free to visit the website and leave a question or a comment.
