[1] An oracle about Nineveh: the scroll containing the vision of Nahum the Elkoshite. [2] The LORD is a jealous and vengeful God; the LORD is vengeful and strong in wrath. The LORD is vengeful against his foes; he rages against his enemies. [3] The LORD is very patient but great in power; the LORD punishes. His way is in whirlwind and storm; clouds are the dust of his feet. [4] He can blast the sea and make it dry up; he can dry up all the rivers. Bashan and Carmel wither; the bud of Lebanon withers. [5] The mountains quake because of him; the hills melt away. The earth heaves before him—the world and all who dwell in it. [6] Who can stand before his indignation? Who can confront the heat of his fury? His wrath pours out like fire; the rocks are shattered because of him. [7] The LORD is good, a haven in a day of distress. He acknowledges those who take refuge in him. [8] With a rushing flood, he will utterly destroy her place and pursue his enemies into darkness. [9] What are you plotting against the LORD? He is one who can annihilate! Distress will not arise twice. [10] They are tangled up like thorns, like drunkards in their cups. They are consumed like stubble that is entirely dried up. [11] From you goes out one who plots evil against the LORD—a worthless counselor! [12] The LORD proclaims: Though once they were a healthy and numerous force, they have been cut off and have disappeared. I have afflicted you; I won’t afflict you further, Zion. [13] Now I will break off his yoke from you and tear off your chains. [14] The LORD has commanded concerning you: You will have no children to carry on your name. I will remove carved idol and cast image from the house of your gods; I will make your grave, for you are worthless. [15] Look, on the mountains: the feet of a messenger who announces peace! Celebrate your festivals, Judah! Fulfill your solemn promises! The worthless one will never again invade you; he has been completely cut off.
