Summary of Nahum
The book of Nahum is a prophetic oracle focused entirely on the impending destruction of Nineveh, the capital of the brutal Assyrian empire. Delivered as a sequel to Jonah's message of mercy, Nahum declares that God's patience has ended due to Nineveh's unceasing cruelty. It serves as both a declaration of God's sovereign justice against an oppressor and a message of comfort and hope for the people of Judah.
Nahum 1:7-8"The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him. But with an overflowing flood he will make a complete end of the adversaries, and will pursue his enemies into darkness."
Start Your Study
Read Chapter 1
Overview of Nahum
Written sometime between the Assyrian conquest of Thebes (c. 663 B.C.) and the fall of Nineveh (612 B.C.), Nahum provides a theological perspective on geopolitics. The prophet portrays God as a divine warrior who rises to execute righteous judgment on a violent empire that had terrorized the ancient world, including Israel and Judah. The book is a powerful affirmation of God's sovereignty over all nations and His commitment to justice for the oppressed.
Structure of Nahum
The Character of the Divine Judge (1)
A Psalm of God's Power (1:1-8) → A Decree of Judgment and Salvation (1:9-15)
The book opens with a majestic, psalm-like description of God's character. He is portrayed as both slow to anger and terrifyingly powerful in judgment, a God who is a safe refuge for His people but an unstoppable force against His enemies. This introduction establishes the theological basis for the destruction of Nineveh and the deliverance of Judah.
The Siege of the Wicked City (2)
The Attack on Nineveh (2:1-6) → The Plunder and Desolation (2:7-13)
This chapter presents a vivid, poetic vision of the battle for Nineveh. Nahum uses powerful, fast-paced imagery of flashing chariots, frantic defenders, and overflowing treasuries being plundered. The prophecy is so immediate it reads like an eyewitness account, emphasizing the certainty and totality of the city's downfall at the hand of the LORD of hosts.
The Reason for Divine Judgment (3)
An Indictment for Violence (3:1-7) → A Comparison and Final Taunt (3:8-19)
The final chapter functions as a formal indictment, listing the reasons for Nineveh's destruction: its endless violence, economic exploitation, and deceptive practices. The prophet compares Nineveh's fate to that of Thebes in Egypt, arguing that no city is too powerful to escape God's judgment. The book concludes with the stark image of a world that rejoices over the fall of its oppressor.
How to Read Nahum
Read Nahum as a powerful piece of prophetic poetry that uses vivid, militaristic imagery to convey a theological truth. The focus is on declaring God's character as a just ruler over history, not on predicting the future. Pay attention to the stark contrast between the terror facing God's enemies and the comfort offered to His people.
- The 'Divine Warrior' motif: God is depicted as a mighty warrior fighting on behalf of his people.
- The 'Woe Oracle': A prophetic form used to announce doom and judgment upon a person or city.
- Poetic Justice: The punishment of Nineveh (violence, plunder) directly mirrors its crimes.
Key Takeaway
The book of Nahum is a sobering declaration that God holds even the most powerful and ruthless nations accountable for their injustice. It affirms that history is not random but is guided by a sovereign Lord who is both a stronghold for the afflicted and a righteous judge of the wicked. Nahum offers clear hope that God sees, remembers, and will act to bring justice for those suffering under oppression.
Ready to Dive Deeper?
Start Your Study
The best way to understand Nahum is to start reading. Our guide to Chapter 1 breaks down the creation story, its key themes, and its theological importance.
Start Reading Chapter 1