Macro-Structure of Nahum
Audience
Nahum presents an oracle concerning Nineveh. The announced judgment is directed toward that oppressive power; descriptions of battle are prophetic and poetic language rather than instructions for the reader to imitate violence.
Key References
Explore the Structure
Explore the structure of each book.
| Section | Focus | Connection to the whole |
|---|---|---|
| The LORD's character and the city's end Nahum 1:1–15 Interpretation | Refuge and judgment | The opening describes the LORD's power and goodness while announcing the end of the hostile oppressor. |
| Nineveh's fall portrayed Nahum 2:1–13 Interpretation | Attack and desolation | The vivid battle scene depicts the overthrow of the power confronted in the oracle. |
| The reason for judgment and the final taunt Nahum 3:1–19 Interpretation | Violence, deceit, and unavoidable collapse | The closing accusations and comparisons expose Nineveh's guilt and complete the announcement of its downfall. |
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.