The Book of Nahum
The name Nahum means "comfort," or "consolation." During Jonah's time Ninevah repented and their destruction was temporarily averted. Not long after that, however, Ninevah reverted to its extreme wickedness, brutality and pride.
Nothing is known about Nahum except his hometown (Elkosh), but even its precise location is uncertain. In all three chapters Nahum prophesied Ninevah's fall, which was fulfilled in 612 B.C. Nahum therefore probably uttered this oracle between 663 and 612, perhaps near the end of this period.
The focal point of the book is the Lord's judgment on Ninevah for her oppression, cruelty, idolatry and wickedness. God's Righteous and just kingdom will ultimately triumph, for kingdoms built on wickedness and tyranny must eventually fall, as Assyria did.
Finally, Nahum declares the universal sovereignty of God. God is Lord of history and of all nations; as such He controls their destinies.
Nothing is known about Nahum except his hometown (Elkosh), but even its precise location is uncertain. In all three chapters Nahum prophesied Ninevah's fall, which was fulfilled in 612 B.C. Nahum therefore probably uttered this oracle between 663 and 612, perhaps near the end of this period.
The focal point of the book is the Lord's judgment on Ninevah for her oppression, cruelty, idolatry and wickedness. God's Righteous and just kingdom will ultimately triumph, for kingdoms built on wickedness and tyranny must eventually fall, as Assyria did.
Finally, Nahum declares the universal sovereignty of God. God is Lord of history and of all nations; as such He controls their destinies.
In chapter 1, Nahum warns of judgment, and describes the awesome power of God, "Mountains quake because of Him and the hills dissolve; indeed the earth is upheaved by His presence, the world and all the inhabitants in it" (1:5). He then goes on to encourage a hope for the Southern Kingdom because of the coming judgment of Ninevah. "Thus says the Lord, Though they are at full strength and likewise many, even so, they will be cut off and pass away. Though I have afflicted you, I will afflict you no longer" (1:12).
In chapter 2-3, Nahum predicts the annihilation of Ninevah, "And it will come about that all who see you will shrink from you and say, 'Ninevah is devastated! Who will grieve for her?' Where will I seek comforters for you?" (3:7). It was damaged so severely that it was lost in time. It wouldn't be until the 19th century that the remains of Ninevah would be identified.
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