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Nahum 2 Commentary
by Brad Boyles
Micah’s choice of wording is not random. He sarcastically refers to the nation of Nineveh as lions in verses 11 and 12.
“Archeologists have found a carving from a palace showing an Assyrian king on a lion hunt.”
John MacArthur
The description fit in many different ways. Both their own view of themselves as well as their behavior depicted a den of lions.
“Extremely appropriate is the imagery of a den of lions for the royalty of Nineveh. The royally commissioned reliefs carved in stone depict repeatedly a number of lions. The kings of Nineveh often presented themselves in their annals in terms reflecting the behavior of the lion. In addition, the Assyrians’ cruel tearing of their enemies suits well the crushing assaults advanced by lions.”
New Interational Commentary – Old Testament
Similar to the way the Old Testament writers described the tumultuous sea, the choice of a lion portrayed the strongest and mightiest nation around. One may think, “Who can tame the king of the beasts?” But as many have experienced, being king leads to comfort and complacency. It leads to a false reality where one actually believes they are invincible. This was the attitude of Nineveh. They were full of pride with no remorse for their actions.
What conquers the lion? The fiery flames of the Lord.
“I am your enemy!” says the LORD Almighty. “I will burn up your chariots. Your soldiers will be killed in war, and I will take away everything that you took from others. The demands of your envoys will no longer be heard.”
Nahum 2:13 GNB
There are no words in this world more frightening than God saying “I am your enemy!” Even though it would be the Babylonians who conquered Nineveh, it was ordained and allowed by the hand of God. Nineveh, who was known for burning cities to the ground, would have the same punishment inflicted on them.
This is the judgment of God. This is the judgment that Christ absorbed. If we cannot come back to Christ after reading of God’s judgment, we have missed the story of the Scriptures. He took what we deserved and made a path to eternal life. he is worthy of all praise and glory.