The Book of Nahum
Nahum announces the coming judgment on Nineveh, affirming that God is both a refuge for the faithful and just toward the wicked. Composed roughly a century after Jonah's mission to the same city.
- Testament
- Old (3 chapters)
- Type
- Minor Prophet
- Date
- Probably 663-612 BC, between the fall of Egyptian Thebes and the fall of Nineveh to Babylon.
God's justice is not forgotten
Nineveh repented at Jonah's preaching; a century later it was again the cruel capital of an empire that crushed nations. Nahum announces that God's patience has limits and judgment is sure. A comfort to those who have suffered under injustice.
God as refuge in storm
'The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him' (1:7) — set right next to the announcement of judgment, this is the book's gift: God's people can shelter in him even while empires collapse around them.
Key verses (KJV)
“The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” — Nahum 1:7 (KJV)
“Behold upon the mountains the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace!” — Nahum 1:15 (KJV)
“The LORD is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked.” — Nahum 1:3 (KJV)
How to read Nahum
Three short chapters — read in one sitting. Pair with Jonah for the full picture of God's dealing with Nineveh across a century.
Read Nahum on your iPhone
Read the full book of Nahum in Quiethaven — choose your translation, read offline, and pick up where you left off. Pair it with a daily verse and a prayer timer.
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From the blog
Frequently asked questions
What is the Book of Nahum about?
Nahum is a book of Minor Prophet, running to 3 chapters. Its main threads: God's justice is not forgotten; God as refuge in storm.
Who wrote the Book of Nahum?
Nahum the Elkoshite.
Where does Nahum come in the Bible?
Nahum is one of the 39 books of the Old Testament in the Protestant canon, grouped with the Minor Prophet books. You can walk the canon in order using the previous and next links on this page.