Then the word of the LORD
This phrase signifies a divine communication, emphasizing the authority and sovereignty of God. In Hebrew, "word" is "dabar," which implies not just spoken words but a powerful, active force that accomplishes God's will. The "LORD" is rendered from "YHWH," the covenant name of God, highlighting His eternal and unchanging nature. This introduction sets the stage for a divine directive, underscoring that what follows is not merely human instruction but a command from the Creator Himself.

came to Jonah
The verb "came" in Hebrew is "hayah," which can mean "to happen" or "to come to pass," indicating that this is a continuation of God's ongoing interaction with Jonah. Jonah, whose name means "dove," is a prophet, a chosen vessel through whom God communicates His message. This phrase suggests a renewal of mission, a second chance for Jonah to fulfill his prophetic duty, reflecting God's grace and patience.

a second time
This phrase highlights God's mercy and willingness to offer Jonah another opportunity to obey. The concept of a "second time" is significant in the biblical narrative, often symbolizing redemption and restoration. It reminds us of God's persistent call and His readiness to forgive and restore those who have strayed. This is a powerful testament to God's character, emphasizing His longsuffering and desire for repentance and obedience.

Arise
The Hebrew word for "arise" is "קוּם" (qum), which conveys a sense of urgency and action. In the context of Jonah, this command is not merely about physical movement but a call to spiritual awakening and obedience. Jonah is being summoned to fulfill a divine mission, emphasizing the immediacy and importance of God's instructions. This word sets the tone for the entire chapter, highlighting the necessity of responding promptly to God's call.

go to Nineveh
Nineveh was the capital of the Assyrian Empire, known for its great size and influence, as well as its wickedness. The command to "go to Nineveh" is significant because it represents God's concern for all nations, not just Israel. The Hebrew word "לֵךְ" (lekh) for "go" implies a journey with purpose. Jonah's mission to Nineveh underscores the theme of God's mercy and desire for repentance, even among those considered enemies of Israel.

the great city
The phrase "the great city" highlights Nineveh's prominence and importance. In Hebrew, "הָעִיר הַגְּדוֹלָה" (ha'ir hagedolah) suggests not only its physical size but also its significant role in the ancient world. This description sets the stage for understanding the magnitude of Jonah's task and the impact of God's message. It also reflects God's sovereignty over all cities and nations, regardless of their power or reputation.

and proclaim to it
The Hebrew word "וּקְרָא" (uqra) for "proclaim" indicates a public declaration or announcement. Jonah is instructed to deliver God's message openly and boldly. This command emphasizes the prophetic role of speaking truth to power and calling for repentance. It serves as a reminder of the responsibility to share God's word, regardless of the potential challenges or opposition.

the message that I give you
This phrase underscores the divine origin of the message Jonah is to deliver. The Hebrew "אֶת־הַקְּרִיאָה אֲשֶׁר אָנֹכִי דֹּבֵר אֵלֶיךָ" (et-haqri'ah asher anokhi dover eleikha) highlights the authority and specificity of God's word. Jonah is not to alter or dilute the message but to faithfully communicate what God has spoken. This reflects the importance of fidelity to God's word and the power of divine truth to transform lives and nations.

So Jonah arose
The phrase "So Jonah arose" signifies Jonah's immediate obedience to God's command. The Hebrew root for "arose" is קוּם (qum), which often implies not just physical rising but also a readiness to act. This marks a significant turning point in Jonah's narrative, contrasting his previous disobedience. It reflects a heart that has been transformed by God's mercy, emphasizing the importance of repentance and obedience in the believer's life.

and went to Nineveh
"Nineveh" was the capital of the Assyrian Empire, known for its great size and wickedness. The historical context of Nineveh as a powerful and feared city underscores the magnitude of Jonah's mission. The Hebrew word for "went" is הָלַךְ (halak), which conveys a sense of journeying with purpose. Jonah's willingness to go to Nineveh demonstrates his submission to God's will, despite his personal feelings towards the city.

according to the word of the LORD
This phrase highlights Jonah's actions being in direct response to God's command. The "word of the LORD" is a powerful concept throughout Scripture, representing divine authority and truth. The Hebrew term for "word" is דָּבָר (dabar), which can also mean matter or thing, indicating the weight and significance of God's instructions. Jonah's compliance with God's word serves as a model for believers to prioritize divine guidance over personal inclinations.

Now Nineveh was an exceedingly great city
The description of Nineveh as an "exceedingly great city" emphasizes its vastness and importance. The Hebrew phrase גְּדוֹלָה לֵאלֹהִים (gedolah le'Elohim) can be translated as "great to God," suggesting that its significance is not just in size but also in its importance to God's plan. This highlights God's concern for all nations and peoples, regardless of their spiritual state, and His desire for their repentance and salvation.

a three-day journey in extent
The phrase "a three-day journey in extent" indicates the city's large size, requiring three days to traverse. This detail underscores the enormity of Jonah's task and the comprehensive nature of God's message. The number three often symbolizes completeness in the Bible, suggesting that Jonah's mission was thorough and divinely ordained. It serves as a reminder of the vastness of God's mercy and the scope of His redemptive plan for humanity.

On the first day of his journey
This phrase marks the beginning of Jonah's mission in Nineveh. The immediacy of "the first day" suggests Jonah's obedience to God's command, contrasting with his earlier reluctance. The Hebrew word for "journey" (דֶּרֶךְ, derek) often implies a path or way, symbolizing not just a physical journey but a spiritual one. Jonah's journey is a testament to the transformative power of repentance and obedience, as he moves from rebellion to fulfilling God's will.

Jonah set out into the city
Jonah's entry into Nineveh signifies his acceptance of God's mission. The act of "setting out" (וַיָּחֶל, vayachel) implies initiation and determination. Nineveh, a great city of the Assyrian Empire, was known for its size and wickedness. Archaeological findings reveal its grandeur and influence, underscoring the magnitude of Jonah's task. His willingness to enter such a formidable city highlights the courage and faith required to deliver God's message.

and proclaimed
The Hebrew root for "proclaimed" (קָרָא, qara) means to call out or announce. Jonah's proclamation is not just a warning but an invitation to repentance. This act of proclaiming God's message is central to the prophetic role, emphasizing the importance of speaking truth to power. Jonah's voice becomes a conduit for divine intervention, reminding us of the power of God's word to transform hearts and societies.

'Forty more days
The number "forty" in the Bible often symbolizes a period of testing, trial, or judgment. It rained for forty days and nights during the flood, and Israel wandered for forty years in the desert. Here, "forty more days" represents a divine deadline for Nineveh to repent. This period is a grace-filled opportunity for transformation, illustrating God's patience and mercy even towards those who have strayed far from His ways.

and Nineveh will be overturned!
The word "overturned" (נֶהְפָּכֶת, nehpaket) can mean destruction or transformation. While it initially suggests impending doom, it also leaves room for hope and change. Historically, Nineveh was known for its violence and idolatry, making it ripe for judgment. However, the potential for "overturning" also implies the possibility of repentance and renewal. This dual meaning underscores the prophetic message that God's judgment is not just punitive but redemptive, offering a chance for a new beginning.

And the people of Nineveh
The city of Nineveh was the capital of the Assyrian Empire, known for its great size and power, as well as its moral and spiritual corruption. Historically, Nineveh was a significant city, and its people were often seen as enemies of Israel. The mention of "the people of Nineveh" highlights the universality of God's message and mercy, extending even to those outside of Israel. This phrase sets the stage for a remarkable transformation, as it was unexpected for such a pagan city to respond to a Hebrew prophet.

believed God
The Hebrew word for "believed" is "aman," which conveys a sense of trust and reliance. This belief was not merely intellectual assent but a deep, heartfelt conviction that led to action. The people of Nineveh did not just acknowledge God's existence; they trusted in His message delivered through Jonah. This belief is significant because it demonstrates that faith is accessible to all, regardless of their background or previous beliefs. It underscores the power of God's word to penetrate even the hardest of hearts.

They proclaimed a fast
Fasting in the ancient Near East was a common expression of repentance and humility before God. By proclaiming a fast, the Ninevites were publicly acknowledging their sins and expressing a desire to turn away from them. This act of fasting was a communal response, indicating a collective recognition of their need for divine mercy. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of humility and repentance in the face of God's judgment.

and dressed in sackcloth
Sackcloth was a coarse material, often made from goat's hair, and wearing it was a traditional sign of mourning and penitence. By dressing in sackcloth, the Ninevites were outwardly demonstrating their inner contrition and sorrow for their sins. This act of donning sackcloth was a visible sign of their repentance, showing that true repentance involves both an inward change of heart and an outward expression of that change.

from the greatest of them to the least
This phrase emphasizes the comprehensive nature of Nineveh's repentance. It was not limited to a particular social class or group but included everyone, from the most powerful leaders to the humblest citizens. This universal response highlights the egalitarian nature of God's call to repentance and the inclusivity of His mercy. It serves as a reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace, and all are called to respond to His message.

When the word reached the king of Nineveh
The phrase "When the word reached" indicates the powerful and far-reaching impact of Jonah's message. The Hebrew word for "word" here is "דָּבָר" (dabar), which often signifies a matter or thing of great importance. This suggests that Jonah's proclamation was not just a simple message but a divine decree that carried weight and authority. The fact that it reached the "king of Nineveh" underscores the seriousness with which the message was taken. Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire, was a significant city known for its power and influence. The king's response to the message highlights the universal reach of God's word, transcending cultural and political boundaries.

he arose from his throne
The action of the king arising from his throne is symbolic of humility and submission. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the throne was a symbol of power and authority. By rising from it, the king of Nineveh demonstrates a willingness to set aside his own authority in recognition of a higher power. This act of humility is a powerful testament to the transformative power of God's word, capable of moving even the most powerful rulers to repentance.

laid aside his royal robe
The "royal robe" is a symbol of the king's status and identity. In the ancient world, clothing often represented one's position and authority. By laying aside his royal robe, the king is not only humbling himself but also identifying with the common people. This act signifies a stripping away of pride and a recognition of the need for repentance. It is a profound gesture of solidarity with his subjects and an acknowledgment of the shared need for divine mercy.

covered himself with sackcloth
Sackcloth, a coarse material made from goat's hair, was traditionally worn as a sign of mourning and repentance. The act of covering oneself with sackcloth is a physical manifestation of inner contrition and a plea for forgiveness. In the biblical context, wearing sackcloth is often associated with a deep sense of sorrow for sin and a desire to return to God. The king's donning of sackcloth is a public declaration of his repentance and a call for his people to do the same.

and sat in ashes
Sitting in ashes is another ancient symbol of repentance and humility. Ashes, representing desolation and ruin, are a stark reminder of human mortality and the consequences of sin. In the biblical tradition, sitting in ashes is an act of self-abasement and a recognition of one's need for divine grace. The king's choice to sit in ashes is a powerful expression of his acknowledgment of sin and his earnest desire for God's forgiveness. This act, combined with the wearing of sackcloth, completes the picture of a ruler who is fully committed to leading his people in repentance and seeking the mercy of God.

Then he issued a proclamation in Nineveh
The phrase "Then he issued a proclamation" indicates a formal and authoritative command. In the ancient Near Eastern context, proclamations were often used by rulers to communicate important decrees to the populace. The Hebrew word for "proclamation" (קְרִיאָה, qeri'ah) suggests a public announcement meant to reach all inhabitants. Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire, was a significant city known for its power and influence. The issuing of a proclamation here underscores the seriousness with which the king of Nineveh took Jonah's message from God.

By the decree of the king and his nobles
The "decree" (טַעַם, ta'am) signifies a binding order, reflecting the authority of the king and his council of nobles. This collective decision-making process highlights the gravity of the situation and the unified response of the leadership. In the ancient world, the king's word was law, and the inclusion of the nobles suggests a consensus among the ruling class, emphasizing the widespread acceptance of the need for repentance.

Let no man or beast, herd or flock, taste anything at all
The command for "no man or beast" to "taste anything" is a call for a complete fast. The inclusion of animals in the fast is unusual and underscores the depth of the city's repentance. In the Hebrew culture, fasting was a sign of humility and penitence before God. The word "taste" (טָעַם, ta'am) implies even the slightest consumption, indicating the thoroughness of the fast. This comprehensive abstinence from food reflects the urgency and sincerity of their repentance.

They must not eat or drink
The prohibition against eating or drinking further emphasizes the severity of the fast. In the ancient Near East, fasting was often accompanied by prayer and mourning, a physical manifestation of spiritual contrition. The Hebrew words for "eat" (אָכַל, akal) and "drink" (שָׁתָה, shatah) are basic necessities of life, and their denial signifies a desperate plea for divine mercy. This act of self-denial is a powerful expression of the Ninevites' desire to avert the impending judgment prophesied by Jonah.

But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth
The use of "sackcloth" in this context is deeply symbolic, representing repentance and humility before God. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, sackcloth was a coarse material, often made from goat's hair, worn as a sign of mourning or penitence. The inclusion of "beast" alongside "man" emphasizes the totality of the city's repentance, suggesting that the entire creation is involved in this act of contrition. This reflects the Hebrew understanding of communal responsibility and the interconnectedness of all creation under God's sovereignty.

Let everyone call out earnestly to God
The phrase "call out earnestly" indicates a sincere and fervent plea to God, highlighting the urgency and depth of the Ninevites' repentance. The Hebrew root for "call out" (קָרָא, qara) often implies a public proclamation or a cry for help, suggesting that the people of Nineveh are not only privately repenting but are also publicly acknowledging their need for divine mercy. This act of calling out to God is a central theme in the Hebrew Scriptures, where genuine repentance is always accompanied by a heartfelt appeal to the Lord.

Let each one turn from his evil ways
The word "turn" (שׁוּב, shuv) is a key term in the Hebrew Bible, often translated as "repent." It signifies a complete change of direction, a turning away from sin and a return to God. The phrase "evil ways" underscores the moral and ethical dimensions of their repentance. The Ninevites are called to abandon their sinful behaviors, which is a fundamental aspect of true repentance. This turning away from evil is not merely an external change but a transformation of the heart and mind, aligning with the biblical call to holiness.

and from the violence in his hands
The mention of "violence" (חָמָס, chamas) specifically addresses the social injustices and brutality that characterized Nineveh. In the ancient world, Nineveh was known for its military might and often ruthless conquests. The phrase "in his hands" suggests personal responsibility and accountability for one's actions. This call to renounce violence is a powerful reminder of God's desire for justice and peace, and it reflects the prophetic tradition's emphasis on social righteousness. The transformation of Nineveh serves as a testament to the power of repentance and God's willingness to forgive even the most grievous sins when there is genuine contrition.

Who knows?
This phrase reflects a sense of uncertainty and hope. In Hebrew, the expression "mi yodea" suggests a humble acknowledgment of human limitations in understanding God's will. It conveys the idea that while humans cannot predict divine actions, there is room for hope and repentance. This rhetorical question invites reflection on the nature of God's mercy and the possibility of divine intervention in response to human repentance.

God may turn and relent
The Hebrew word for "turn" is "shuv," which means to return or repent. This is significant because it implies a change in direction or purpose. The word "relent" is translated from "nacham," which can mean to be sorry, to console oneself, or to change one's mind. In the context of the Old Testament, these terms often describe God's response to human actions, emphasizing His willingness to forgive and alter His course of action when people genuinely repent. This phrase underscores the compassionate and responsive nature of God, who is not bound by a predetermined course but is open to altering His plans in light of human repentance.

He may turn from His fierce anger
The phrase "fierce anger" in Hebrew is "charon aph," which literally means "burning of the nose," a vivid metaphor for intense anger. This anthropomorphic expression highlights the severity of God's wrath against sin. However, the possibility that God "may turn" from this anger illustrates His readiness to forgive and withhold judgment when people turn from their wicked ways. It reflects the biblical theme that God's justice is tempered by His mercy, and His desire is not to punish but to restore.

so that we will not perish
The word "perish" in Hebrew is "avad," which means to be lost, destroyed, or to vanish. This term conveys the ultimate consequence of sin, which is destruction and separation from God. The use of "we" indicates a communal aspect of repentance and salvation, emphasizing that the actions of individuals can impact the fate of the entire community. This phrase serves as a reminder of the stakes involved in repentance and the hope that through turning to God, destruction can be averted, and life preserved.

When God saw their actions
The Hebrew word for "saw" is "ra'ah," which implies not just a passive observation but an active, discerning perception. This indicates that God is deeply aware of human actions and intentions. In the context of Nineveh, it underscores the sincerity of their repentance. Theologically, this highlights God's omniscience and His responsiveness to human behavior, affirming that He is not a distant deity but one who is intimately involved with His creation.

that they had turned
The phrase "turned" comes from the Hebrew "shuv," which means to return or repent. This is a pivotal concept in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing a complete change of direction in one's life. The Ninevites' turning from their evil ways is a profound act of repentance, demonstrating that true repentance involves both a change of heart and a change of action. This aligns with the biblical theme that God desires repentance and transformation over punishment.

from their evil ways
"Evil ways" in Hebrew is "ra'ah derek," which can be translated as wicked or harmful paths. This phrase indicates a lifestyle or pattern of behavior that is contrary to God's will. The Ninevites' acknowledgment and abandonment of their evil ways reflect a deep understanding of their moral failings and a commitment to align with divine standards. This serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that God calls all people to holiness and righteousness.

He relented
The Hebrew word "nacham" is used here, which can mean to be sorry, to console oneself, or to change one's mind. In this context, it signifies God's compassionate response to genuine repentance. This does not imply a change in God's nature or character but rather His consistent willingness to forgive and show mercy. It illustrates the dynamic relationship between divine justice and mercy, where God's ultimate desire is to restore rather than to destroy.

of the disaster
The term "disaster" is translated from the Hebrew "ra'ah," which is the same word used for "evil" earlier in the verse. This linguistic connection highlights the reciprocal nature of sin and its consequences. The disaster that God threatened was a direct result of Nineveh's evil actions, yet His willingness to withhold it upon their repentance underscores His grace and mercy.

He had threatened to bring upon them
The phrase "threatened to bring" reflects God's warning, which serves as a call to repentance. The Hebrew word "dabar" is often used for speaking or declaring, indicating that God's warnings are not arbitrary but purposeful, intended to lead to repentance and restoration. This demonstrates God's justice, as He is faithful to His word, but also His mercy, as He provides opportunities for repentance and redemption.