Biblical Reference:
The account of Jonah being commanded to go to Nineveh is found in the Book of Jonah, specifically in Jonah 1:1-2.

Historical Context:
The events of the Book of Jonah are set during a time when the Assyrian Empire, with Nineveh as its capital, was a dominant power in the ancient Near East. Nineveh was known for its great size and influence, as well as its reputation for wickedness and idolatry. The Assyrians were often seen as enemies of Israel, which adds a layer of complexity to Jonah's mission.

Scriptural Account:
The narrative begins with a direct command from God to Jonah, the son of Amittai. Jonah 1:1-2 states: "Now the word of the LORD came to Jonah son of Amittai, saying, 'Get up! Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before Me.'"

Theological Significance:
God's command to Jonah highlights several key theological themes. First, it underscores God's sovereignty and His concern for all nations, not just Israel. Despite Nineveh's reputation for sinfulness, God desires to extend His mercy and offer an opportunity for repentance. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's compassion and willingness to forgive those who turn from their wicked ways.

Second, Jonah's mission to Nineveh serves as a foreshadowing of the New Testament message of salvation being available to all peoples, not just the Jewish nation. It prefigures the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19).

Prophetic Role of Jonah:
Jonah is identified as a prophet, a messenger chosen by God to deliver His word. His reluctance and subsequent actions reveal the human struggle with obedience and the challenge of aligning personal desires with divine will. Jonah's initial resistance to God's command is a reminder of the importance of submission to God's purposes, even when they conflict with personal prejudices or fears.

Nineveh's Wickedness:
The city of Nineveh is described as "great," not only in size but also in its moral depravity. The phrase "its wickedness has come up before Me" indicates that Nineveh's sins were significant and had reached a point where divine intervention was necessary. This sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow, where God's justice and mercy are both prominently displayed.

Jonah's Reluctance:
While the initial command is clear, Jonah's response is marked by reluctance and disobedience. Instead of heading to Nineveh, Jonah attempts to flee from the presence of the Lord by boarding a ship bound for Tarshish. This act of defiance highlights the tension between human will and divine command, a recurring theme throughout the biblical narrative.

Implications for Israel:
Jonah's mission to Nineveh also serves as a message to Israel. It challenges the Israelites to reflect on their own relationship with God and their responsibility to be a light to the nations. Jonah's account is a call to recognize God's universal love and the call to repentance that extends beyond national boundaries.

Conclusion:
The command for Jonah to go to Nineveh is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, rich with theological and moral implications. It sets the stage for a profound exploration of God's character, human obedience, and the scope of divine mercy.