Bible Commentaries
Nahum 2

Verses 1-13

Having thus announced the verdict, the prophet described the process of vengeance. He declared that the "hammer" had come up against Nineveh, and ironically advised her to prepare. He then detailed the process of Nineveh's destruction.

The interpretations of this description greatly differ. I suggest that it falls into three clearly defined parts. First, the conflict (verses Nah 2:3-5 ); second, the conquest (verses Nah 2:6-9 ); finally, the consummation (verse Nah 2:10 ).

The picture of the conflict is graphic. We first see the attacking army outside the walls, then the defending host inside the city.

Next, the battle itself is described. The conquest of the city is secured by the act of God, "The gates of the rivers are opened." Continuing, Nahum described the city under the figure of a woman and her attendants. They flee, and the enemy captures the spoil.

Finally, the consummation of judgment is announced. Nineveh "is empty, and void, and waste." The utter collapse of the people was set forth in figurative language. The prophet then immediately broke forth into exultation. The den of the lions was gone, all the cruelty of Nineveh was at an end. Moreover, the prophet recognized this as the righteous act of God. It was His act of vengeance. He was against Nineveh, therefore the overthrow was complete.