Nahum 3:4
Because of the multitude of the whoredoms of the wellfavoured harlot, the mistress of witchcrafts, that selleth nations through her whoredoms, and families through her witchcrafts.
Nahum 3:4 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse you are referring to comes from the book of Nahum in the Old Testament. In this verse, the prophet Nahum is condemning a well-favored harlot who is engaging in immoral practices and using witchcraft to manipulate and deceive nations and families. The harlot symbolizes a corrupt and deceitful entity that is leading people astray and selling out their values for personal gain. This verse serves as a warning against the dangers of immorality, idolatry, and deceitful practices that can lead nations and families astray from the path of righteousness. It highlights the consequences of engaging in sinful behaviors and betraying one's values for personal gain or power. Through this verse, Nahum reminds readers of the importance of staying true to their beliefs and resisting the temptations of immoral and deceitful influences.
Theological Overview
When interpreting the verse concerning the well-favoured harlot and mistress of witchcrafts, it is essential to consider the theological implications of these actions. The use of the term "whoredoms" symbolizes the unfaithfulness and idolatry of the people towards God. The harlot's seduction of nations and families through witchcraft signifies the corrupting influence of sin and immorality. In a broader theological context, this verse serves as a warning against spiritual adultery and the allure of false gods. The concept of selling nations and families highlights the destructive nature of sin and its ability to lead individuals and communities astray from the path of righteousness. Through a careful word study, one can delve deeper into the nuances of the original Hebrew text and uncover the profound spiritual truths embedded in this passage.
Nahum 3:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
because of the multitude of the whoredoms of the well-favored harlot, the mistress of witchcrafts, that selleth nations through her whoredoms, and families through her witchcrafts.
World English Bible
because of the multitude of the prostitution of the alluring prostitute, the mistress of witchcraft, who sells nations through her prostitution, and families through her witchcraft.
Douay-Rheims
Because of the multitude of the fornications of the harlot that was beautiful and agreeable, and that made use of witchcraft, that sold nations through her fornications, and families through her witchcrafts.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Because of the multitude of the fornications of the harlot that is beautifull, and is a mistresse of witchcraft, and selleth the people thorow her whoredome, and the nations thorowe her witchcrafts.