National Association of Christian Ministers Summary Series
The Book of Nahum is a prophetic book found in the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. It is attributed to the prophet Nahum and primarily focuses on the impending destruction of the city of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire. The book is composed of three chapters and contains a vivid description of God’s judgment against Nineveh.
Nahum’s prophecy is set in the context of the Assyrian oppression and conquest of Israel. The book opens with a declaration of God’s vengeance and His wrath against Nineveh. Nahum describes God as a jealous and avenging God who will not let the guilty go unpunished. He vividly portrays the power and majesty of God, stating that He controls the forces of nature and can unleash His wrath upon His enemies.
Nahum prophesies the downfall of Nineveh and describes in detail the destruction that awaits the city. He speaks of the armies that will surround Nineveh, the battering rams, and the walls that will crumble. Nahum assures the people of Judah that God will bring an end to the Assyrian oppression and restore justice to His people.
The prophet highlights the wickedness and cruelty of the Assyrians, emphasizing their ruthless conquests and their oppression of nations. He denounces their idolatry and the violence they have inflicted upon Israel. Nahum predicts that their wealth and power will not protect them from God’s judgment.
The book concludes with a taunting of Nineveh, as Nahum proclaims that their destruction is inevitable and irreversible. He declares that the people of Nineveh will be drunk and defenseless when the city is overtaken by their enemies. Nahum assures the people of Judah that their oppressors will no longer threaten them, and they will be free from the Assyrian yoke.
In summary, the Book of Nahum is a prophecy concerning the impending destruction of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire. Nahum vividly describes the judgment and downfall that await the city, emphasizing God’s power and vengeance. The book assures the people of Judah of God’s faithfulness and promises that they will be liberated from their oppressors.
