Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ISBE • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:Naum, more commonly known as Nahum, is one of the twelve minor prophets in the Old Testament. His prophetic book, the Book of Nahum, is the seventh among the Minor Prophets and is a vivid portrayal of God's judgment against the city of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire. Nahum's name means "comfort" or "consolation," which is significant given the message of hope and relief his prophecy brings to Judah through the promise of Nineveh's downfall. Historical Context: Nahum's prophecy is generally dated to the 7th century BC, during the reign of King Josiah of Judah. This places his ministry after the fall of Thebes (No-Amon) in 663 BC, which he references in Nahum 3:8, and before the fall of Nineveh in 612 BC. The Assyrian Empire was at the height of its power, having previously conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel and exerted significant influence over Judah. Nahum's prophecy comes as a divine response to Assyria's cruelty and oppression. Content and Structure: The Book of Nahum is composed of three chapters, each contributing to the overarching theme of divine justice and retribution against Nineveh. The book can be outlined as follows: 1. Chapter 1: The Character of God and the Certainty of Nineveh's Judgment · Nahum begins with a theophany, a vivid depiction of God's power and justice. "The LORD is slow to anger and great in power; the LORD will by no means leave the guilty unpunished" (Nahum 1:3). This chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and His righteous anger against sin. 2. Chapter 2: The Siege and Fall of Nineveh · This chapter provides a graphic description of Nineveh's impending destruction. Nahum uses poetic imagery to depict the chaos and devastation that will befall the city. "Behold, I am against you, declares the LORD of Hosts. I will burn up your chariots in smoke, and the sword will devour your young lions" (Nahum 2:13). 3. Chapter 3: The Reasons for Nineveh's Judgment · Nahum outlines the reasons for Nineveh's downfall, including its violence, deceit, and idolatry. The chapter concludes with a taunt against the city, highlighting its inevitable ruin. "Your shepherds are sleeping, O king of Assyria; your nobles lie down to rest. Your people are scattered on the mountains with no one to gather them" (Nahum 3:18). Theological Themes: Nahum's prophecy underscores several key theological themes: · Divine Justice: Nahum emphasizes that God is just and will not tolerate sin indefinitely. His judgment against Nineveh serves as a reminder of His holiness and righteousness. · Sovereignty of God: The book highlights God's control over nations and history. Despite Assyria's might, it is ultimately subject to God's will. · Hope for the Oppressed: For Judah, Nahum's prophecy is a message of hope and comfort. It assures them that God sees their suffering and will act on their behalf. Relevance: Nahum's message remains relevant for believers today as it reassures them of God's justice and sovereignty. It serves as a reminder that while evil may seem to prevail temporarily, God will ultimately bring about justice and deliverance for His people. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary NaumSmith's Bible Dictionary Naum(consolation), son of Esli, and father of Amos, in the genealogy of Christ, (Luke 3:25) about contemporary with the high priesthood of Jason all the reign of Antiochus Epiphanes. (B.C.175.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia NAUMna'-um: the King James Version form, NAHUM (which see), the name of an ancestor of Jesus (Luke 3:25). Greek 3486. Naoum -- Nahum, an Israelite ... NASB Word Usage Nahum (1). Naum. Of Hebrew origin (Nachuwm); Naum (ie Nachum), an Israelite -- Naum. see HEBREW Nachuwm. (naoum) -- 1 Occurrence. 3485, 3486. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3486.htm - 6k Library "Lord, Dismiss us with Thy Blessing. " Chapter i. "Children of the Heavenly King. " The Jewish Institutions and Laws of Far Higher Antiquity than the ... Texts Explained; Eleventhly... Thesaurus Naum (1 Occurrence)...NAUM. na'-um: the King James Version form, NAHUM (which see), the name of an ancestor of Jesus (Luke 3:25). Multi-Version Concordance Naum (1 Occurrence). ... /n/naum.htm - 6k Naughty (3 Occurrences) Nauseated (1 Occurrence) Nagge (1 Occurrence) Nahum (3 Occurrences) Mattathi'as (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Naum (1 Occurrence)Luke 3:25 Subtopics Related Terms |