The Book of Nahum
Nahum announces the coming judgment on Nineveh, affirming that God is both a refuge for the faithful and just toward the wicked. Composed roughly a century after Jonah's mission to the same city.
- Testament
- Old (3 chapters)
- Type
- Minor Prophet
- Author
- Nahum the Elkoshite.
- Date
- Probably 663-612 BC, between the fall of Egyptian Thebes and the fall of Nineveh to Babylon.
God's justice is not forgotten
Nineveh repented at Jonah's preaching; a century later it was again the cruel capital of an empire that crushed nations. Nahum announces that God's patience has limits and judgment is sure. A comfort to those who have suffered under injustice.
God as refuge in storm
'The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him' (1:7) — set right next to the announcement of judgment, this is the book's gift: God's people can shelter in him even while empires collapse around them.
Key verses (KJV)
“The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” — Nahum 1:7 (KJV)
“Behold upon the mountains the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace!” — Nahum 1:15 (KJV)
“The LORD is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked.” — Nahum 1:3 (KJV)
How to read Nahum
Three short chapters — read in one sitting. Pair with Jonah for the full picture of God's dealing with Nineveh across a century.
Read Nahum on your iPhone
Read the full book of Nahum in Quiethaven — choose your translation, read offline, and pick up where you left off. Pair it with a daily verse and a prayer timer.
Read Nahum free on iPhone.
Download on the App Store