Title (1:1)
- Nahum identifies himself as the prophet who received the vision concerning the fate of Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, a message of judgment against it.
Nineveh’s Judge (1:2–15)
- The Lord’s Kindness and Sternness (1:2–8):
- God’s jealousy and wrath: The opening section portrays God’s attributes of justice, power, and wrath, but also His mercy and grace. He is slow to anger but will not leave the guilty unpunished.
- God’s power is displayed in nature and His sovereignty over the earth, including His control over storms, seas, and the mountains. The judgment of Nineveh is imminent, but God offers refuge to those who trust in Him.
- Nineveh’s Overthrow and Judah’s Joy (1:9–15):
- Judgment on Nineveh: The Assyrians, who had long oppressed Judah, will be destroyed. Nineveh’s plans to attack Judah will come to nothing.
- Judah’s rejoicing: The people of Judah are encouraged to rejoice because their oppressors will be destroyed, and God will restore peace and prosperity to His people.
Nineveh’s Judgment (ch. 2)
- Nineveh Besieged (2:1–10):
- Assyrian defeat foretold: The chapter describes the siege of Nineveh, with the fall of the city symbolized by its gates being opened to the enemy. The once-proud city will be laid waste, and the enemy will plunder its wealth.
- Destruction of Nineveh’s defenses: The chapter depicts the downfall of Nineveh’s military forces and fortifications.
- Nineveh’s Desolation Contrasted with Her Former Glory (2:11–13):
- From glory to ruin: Nineveh, once a great and proud city, will be utterly desolate. The city’s lions (symbolizing power and dominance) will no longer hunt, and the destruction will be complete.
Nineveh’s Total Destruction (ch. 3)
- Nineveh’s Sins (3:1–4):
- Sin and violence: Nineveh is accused of many sins, including bloodshed, violence, and exploitation. Her many evils have accumulated to bring about her downfall.
- Nineveh’s Doom (3:5–19):
- God’s wrath against Nineveh: The city is personified as a prostitute, proud and seductive in her power but ultimately destined for destruction.
- Total destruction: Nineveh’s complete annihilation is assured. The city’s rulers will be struck down, and its people will be scattered.
- Unavoidable fate: Despite its fortified walls and defenses, Nineveh’s destruction is inevitable. Her allies will abandon her, and there will be no one to help when her fate is sealed.