Day 351

Nahum 1:1–3:19; Revelation 8:1-13; Psalm 136:1-26; Proverbs 30:7-9

TODAY, WE READ the entire seventh book of minor prophecy —the book of Nahum. Practically nothing is known about Nahum’s life, other than that his name means “comfort”* and that he was from Elkosh. The whereabouts of Elkosh —and whether it was a town or village —are unknown.

Dating the time of Nahum is a little easier because of references within the prophecy to historical events. For example, Nahum mentioned the Assyrian conquest of Thebes (in Egypt). This happened in 663 BC, so we know that the book of Nahum was written after this date. He also foretold the fall of Nineveh, which happened in 612 BC. Therefore, Nahum was likely fulfilling his prophetic calling within the years between the two events.

The purpose of this prophetic work was to foretell the aforementioned destruction of Nineveh —which was the capital city of the Assyrian Empire at that time.

Only a few days ago, we read the book of Jonah, and we certainly remember his harrowing journey to Nineveh to deliver a message of judgment, after which many Ninevites repented for a time. Nahum’s prophecies against Nineveh came almost a century and a half after Jonah, and the Assyrians were more evil and brutal than ever. Their mistreatment of conquered peoples was legendary, and by the time of Nahum’s prophecy, they had destroyed the northern kingdom of Israel and carried away her people into exile, where they disappeared from history as cohesive tribes.

Although Nahum prophesied against Nineveh, he was not sent to the city. Many scholars believe that Nahum prophesied from Jerusalem and that the work was intended for the inhabitants of Judah. A prophecy of the destruction of their enemy (especially after what had happened to the northern kingdom) would have been received as encouragement and comfort.

Nahum reveals that God is most merciful and patient —but He is not a pushover, and He will not stand for a nation’s sin forever.

MEDITATION:

The LORD is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him. But he will sweep away his enemies in an overwhelming flood. He will pursue his foes into the darkness of night.