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Nahum 2:13

Behold, I am against thee, saith the LORD of hosts, and I will burn her chariots in the smoke, and the sword shall devour thy young lions: and I will cut off thy prey from the earth, and the voice of thy messengers shall no more be heard.

Nahum 2:13 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Nahum in the Old Testament of the Bible is a proclamation of judgment from the LORD of hosts against a particular nation. In this verse, the LORD declares that He is against this nation and will bring destruction upon them. The imagery of burning chariots in smoke and the devouring sword symbolizes the utter devastation that will befall them. The reference to young lions being devoured by the sword conveys the idea of the nation's strength and power being crushed. Moreover, the cutting off of prey from the earth signifies a loss of resources and sustenance. Lastly, the silence of the messengers signifies the end of communication and influence for this nation. Overall, this verse serves as a warning of the consequences of disobedience and sin, emphasizing the importance of staying faithful and obedient to the LORD.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the Book of Nahum, the prophet delivers a message from the LORD of hosts against the city of Nineveh, once a powerful Assyrian capital. The image of burning chariots and devouring young lions signifies the destruction and downfall that the city will face due to its wickedness and oppression of others. The cutting off of prey from the earth symbolizes the removal of Nineveh's power and resources, leaving it vulnerable and exposed. The silencing of the messengers' voices indicates a loss of authority and influence for the city. Through this vivid imagery, the verse conveys the message of divine judgment and punishment for those who act unjustly and oppress others. It serves as a warning to heed the word of the LORD and avoid the consequences of sinful actions.

Nahum 2:13 in other translations

American Standard Version

Behold, I am against thee, saith Jehovah of hosts, and I will burn her chariots in the smoke, and the sword shall devour thy young lions; and I will cut off thy prey from the earth, and the voice of thy messengers shall no more be heard.

World English Bible

“Behold, I am against you,” says Yahweh of Armies, “and I will burn her chariots in the smoke, and the sword will devour your young lions; and I will cut off your prey from the earth, and the voice of your messengers will no longer be heard.”

Douay-Rheims

Behold I come against thee, saith the Lord of hosts, and I will burn thy chariots even to smoke, and the sword shall devour thy young lions: and I will cut off thy prey out of the land, and the voice of thy messengers shall be heard no more.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Beholde, I come vnto thee, sayeth the Lord of hostes, and I will burne her charets in the smoke, and the sworde shall deuoure thy yong lyons, and I will cut off thy spoyle from the earth, and the voyce of thy messengers shall no more be heard.