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Author |
Nahum |
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Date |
Between 663 and 612 BC |
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Time Span |
Not specified |
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Title |
From the book's author: Nahum. This name means “comforter.” |
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Background |
The book of Nahum is a sequel to the book of Jonah, wherein Jonah led the city of Nineveh (Assyria's capital) in a tremendous revival, which delayed God's judgment on them. But that happened about 150 years before, and now after years of falling away Nineveh has become even more wicked. Assyria is at the peak of her reign, exuding pride, wealth, and power. Nahum, a prophet from the Judean town of Elkosh, has this mission: to preach God's coming judgment to Nineveh and God's comfort to the Israelites. |
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Where |
Judah |
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To Whom |
To Assyria and her capital city, Nineveh, but as comfort to God's people in Judah as well. |
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Content |
Assyria has progressively conquered nation after nation. The Assyrians are a brutal people-cruel, defiant, and immoral-and their sins against God's people bring the judgment of God upon themselves. Nahum predicts the desolation of Nineveh, which takes place some years later when a flood of the Tigris River destroys part of her previously invincible city wall. Forces from Babylon then enter the city to fulfill Nahum's words. Nineveh's destruction will be final; whereas, Judah at her destruction will leave behind a remnant. |
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Themes |
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Key |
“Might”; “Comfort.” By all human standards Nineveh has “might” and power. The city is surrounded by a great wall 100 feet high-that reportedly could hold 6 chariots riding abreast-as well as a great moat 60 feet in depth. 200 towers ascend another 100 feet above the wall. But despite this formidable opposition, Nahum has constant words of “comfort” for his people: the “might” of God will enable them to meet any human challenge. |
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Outline |
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