King James Version

What Does Nahum 1:9 Mean?

“What do ye imagine against the LORD? he will make an utter end: affliction shall not rise up the second time.”

Context

The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him. strong hold: or, strength

But with an overrunning flood he will make an utter end of the place thereof, and darkness shall pursue his enemies.

What do ye imagine against the LORD? he will make an utter end: affliction shall not rise up the second time.

For while they be folden together as thorns, and while they are drunken as drunkards, they shall be devoured as stubble fully dry.

There is one come out of thee, that imagineth evil against the LORD, a wicked counsellor. a wicked: Heb. a counsellor of Belial

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(9-15) The first revelation of God’s judgment, by the awful overthrow of Sennacherib’s invading army in the reign of Hezekiah. (9) **Affliction**—*i.e.,* Nineveh’s affliction of Israel, the same Hebrew word being used in Nahum 1:7 to denote Israel’s “trouble” or “affliction” proceeding from Nineveh. (See also Nahum 1:12.) Nineveh shall not afflict Israel a second time. Applying the whole passage to the destruction of Sennacherib’s host, we necessarily prefer this to the other possible interpretation—God will not have occasion to send affliction on Nineveh a second time, *i.e.,* this visitation will be so exhaustive that there will be no need to repeat it. For the judgment on Sennacherib was *not* God’s final visitation.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Nahum. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Nahum 1:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.