Date: 7th century BC
Contents
Nahum was born in Elkos in the kingdom of Judah. The prophet addresses his message primarily to the city of Nineveh. A century earlier, Jonah was sent by God to that city to preach repentance. A large part of the inhabitants heeded this call. In the course of time Nineveh has returned to its sins. That is why God commands Nahum to proclaim judgment to the capital of Assyria. This occurs in the period 664 to 612 BC. Nineveh falls in 612 BC.
Theological Themes
In the coming judgment upon Nineveh, the inhabitants of this city are for their sins:
- Idolatry (1:14),
- Arrogance (1:11),
- Murder (3:1-19),
- Lies (3:1-19),
- Deceit (3:1-19),
- Superstition (3:1-19),
- Misconduct (3:1-19).
This city will be destroyed. The prophet calls the city Blood City (3:1), an image that the Assyrian Empire has sunk deep. The basis of Nahum’s message is:
- The rule of God is over all the earth, over those who believe and those who disbelieve,
- The gods of Nineveh are nothing,
- The only God holds everyone accountable, regardless of whether you know it,
- God is only God.
The prophet Nahum shows that GOD is willing to spare this city if they repent.
GOD seeks every lost man and is:
- Patient (1:3)
- Good (1:7)
- A focal point for those who trust Him (1:7)
GOD has good news for those who will listen to Him (1:15).
This theme was later adopted by the New Testament writers when they described the work and preaching of Christ Jesus (gospel = good news).
Main features
- Prophecy of Judgment (1:1:15),
- The Desolation of the City of Nineveh (2:1-13),
- Reasons for God’s Judgment on Nineveh (3:1-19).
