Nahum 3:13
Behold, thy people in the midst of thee are women: the gates of thy land shall be set wide open unto thine enemies: the fire shall devour thy bars.
Nahum 3:13 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the prophet Nahum speaks about the impending doom that will befall the people of Judah. By referring to them as "women," he symbolizes their vulnerability and weakness in the face of their enemies. The mention of the gates of the land being wide open signifies a lack of defense and security, leaving them exposed to attack and invasion by their foes. The imagery of fire devouring the bars suggests a complete destruction and devastation of their strength and protection. This prophecy serves as a warning to the people of Judah about the consequences of turning away from God and His commandments. It is a reminder that without His protection and guidance, they will be left defenseless and vulnerable to the threats and dangers that surround them. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and obedience in the face of adversity.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the idea that the mention of "women" in this context could symbolize weakness or vulnerability. In ancient times, women were often seen as more vulnerable than men, and by referring to the people as women, the verse may be alluding to the fact that the people of the land are defenseless and easily overcome. The mention of the gates being set wide open to enemies reinforces this idea of vulnerability, as it suggests a lack of protection or security. Additionally, the image of fire devouring the bars could symbolize destruction and chaos, further emphasizing the dire consequences of the people's weaknesses and lack of defense. Overall, this verse serves as a warning of the impending danger and destruction that will come upon the people if they do not strengthen their defenses and protect themselves from their enemies.
Nahum 3:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
Behold, thy people in the midst of thee are women; the gates of thy land are set wide open unto thine enemies: the fire hath devoured thy bars.
World English Bible
Behold, your troops in your midst are women. The gates of your land are set wide open to your enemies. The fire has devoured your bars.
Douay-Rheims
Behold thy people in the midst of thee are women: the gates of thy land shall be set wide open to thy enemies, the fire shall devour thy bars.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Beholde, thy people within thee are women: the gates of thy land shalbe opened vnto thine enemies, and ye fire shall deuoure thy barres.