Nahum 2:7
And Huzzab shall be led away captive, she shall be brought up, and her maids shall lead her as with the voice of doves, tabering upon their breasts.
Nahum 2:7 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse, found in the book of Nahum in the Old Testament, has a metaphorical meaning. The prophet Nahum is delivering a message of judgment to the nation of Nineveh, predicting its downfall due to its wickedness and idolatry. In this specific verse, the character of Huzzab represents the city of Nineveh itself. The imagery of Huzzab being led away captive by her maids with the voice of doves, tabering upon their breasts, symbolizes the city's humiliation and defeat. The use of doves and tabering evokes a sense of mourning and lamentation, emphasizing the sorrow and destruction that will befall Nineveh. The verse serves as a warning of the consequences of sin and serves to illustrate the eventual downfall of those who turn away from God.
Theological Overview
Upon examining the theological interpretation of the verse, 'And Huzzab shall be led away captive, she shall be brought up, and her maids shall lead her as with the voice of doves, tabering upon their breasts', scholars have posited various interpretations. Some suggest that 'Huzzab' could symbolize a person or a nation facing judgment or exile. Others view 'Huzzab' as a representation of pride or arrogance that leads to downfall. The image of her maids leading her with the voice of doves tabering upon their breasts conveys a sense of lamentation and mourning, signifying the sorrowful fate that 'Huzzab' will face. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of disobedience or hubris, urging readers to heed warnings and remain humble before God.
Nahum 2:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it is decreed: she is uncovered, she is carried away; and her handmaids moan as with the voice of doves, beating upon their breasts.
World English Bible
It is decreed: she is uncovered, she is carried away; and her handmaids moan as with the voice of doves, beating on their breasts.
Douay-Rheims
And the soldier is led away captive: and her bondwomen were led away mourning as doves, murmuring in their hearts.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Huzzab the Queene shalbe led away captiue, and her maides shall leade her as with the voyce of doues, smiting vpon their breastes.