Nahum 2:12
The lion mauled enough for its cubs and strangled prey for the lioness. It filled its dens with the kill, and its lairs with mauled prey.
The lion
In the ancient Near Eastern context, the lion is a symbol of strength, power, and dominance. The Hebrew word used here, "אַרְיֵה" (aryeh), often represents a powerful ruler or kingdom. In Nahum, the lion metaphorically represents the Assyrian empire, known for its might and ferocity. The imagery of a lion evokes the fear and respect that Assyria commanded among the nations, yet it also foreshadows its eventual downfall as prophesied by Nahum.

tore enough for his cubs
This phrase suggests the provision and care a lion shows for its offspring, symbolizing how the Assyrian empire amassed wealth and resources to sustain its people and power. The Hebrew root "טָרַף" (taraph) means to tear or rend, indicating the violent means by which Assyria acquired its riches. Historically, Assyria was known for its brutal conquests and the spoils taken from subjugated nations, reflecting the empire's insatiable appetite for expansion and dominance.

and strangled prey for his lionesses
The act of strangling prey highlights the ruthless efficiency and calculated aggression of the Assyrian empire. The Hebrew word "חָנַק" (chanak) means to strangle or choke, emphasizing the merciless nature of Assyria's military campaigns. The lionesses, representing the empire's dependents or perhaps its military forces, benefited from the empire's conquests. This imagery underscores the systemic violence and exploitation that characterized Assyrian rule.

He filled his lairs with prey
The lairs symbolize the cities and strongholds of Assyria, filled with the spoils of war. The Hebrew word "מְעוֹן" (meon) refers to a dwelling or habitation, suggesting the empire's centers of power were enriched by their conquests. This phrase reflects the historical reality of Assyria's wealth, accumulated through tribute and plunder, which was stored in its capital, Nineveh, and other key cities.

and his dens with torn flesh
The dens, like the lairs, represent the secure places where the empire stored its wealth. The Hebrew word "נְוֵה" (neveh) can mean a habitation or pasture, indicating places of rest and security. The "torn flesh" signifies the violent means by which these riches were obtained. This imagery serves as a stark reminder of the brutality of Assyria's methods and the temporary nature of its wealth, as Nahum prophesies the impending judgment and destruction of Nineveh.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Lion
Symbolically represents the Assyrian Empire, known for its strength and ferocity in conquest.

2. Cubs
Represents the offspring or future generations of the Assyrian Empire, benefiting from the empire's conquests.

3. Lionesses
Symbolizes the people or the nation of Assyria, who rely on the empire's strength for sustenance.

4. Lairs and Dens
Metaphorically refers to the cities and strongholds of Assyria, filled with the spoils of their conquests.

5. Nahum
The prophet delivering God's message of judgment against Nineveh, the capital of Assyria.
Teaching Points
God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is in control of all nations and empires, and He will hold them accountable for their actions.

The Consequences of Pride and Cruelty
Like Assyria, any nation or individual that relies on violence and oppression will face God's judgment.

Provision and Security in God Alone
True security and provision come from God, not from human strength or conquest.

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Power
Earthly power and wealth are fleeting; only what is done for God will last.

The Importance of Justice and Righteousness
God values justice and righteousness, and He will act against those who perpetuate injustice.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the imagery of the lion in Nahum 2:12 help us understand the nature of the Assyrian Empire?

2. In what ways can the fall of Assyria serve as a warning to modern nations or individuals?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty over nations in Nahum relate to current global events?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our security and provision come from God rather than worldly power?

5. How can we apply the lessons of justice and righteousness from Nahum 2:12 in our daily lives and communities?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Isaiah 10
Describes the arrogance of Assyria and God's plan to punish them for their pride and cruelty.

Ezekiel 19
Uses the imagery of a lion to describe the leaders of Israel, drawing a parallel to the destructive nature of Assyria.

Revelation 18
Depicts the fall of Babylon, which can be seen as a parallel to the fall of Nineveh, emphasizing God's judgment on oppressive empires.
The Downfall of NinevehDe Wette's Introduction., De Wette's IntroductionNahum 2:3-13
The Downfall of NinevehS.D. Hilman Nahum 2:3-13
People
Jacob, Nahum
Places
Nineveh
Topics
Caves, Cubs, Dens, Fill, Filled, Filling, Flesh, Full, Habitations, Hole, Holes, Kill, Killed, Lairs, Lion, Lionesses, Mate, Meat, Pieces, Prey, Pulled, Rapine, Ravin, Resting-place, She-lions, Stored, Strangled, Strangling, Tear, Tearing, Tore, Torn, Whelps
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Nahum 2:12

     5342   hunting

Library
Conclusion
As we take up our pen to write these closing paragraphs, we do so conscious that we have merely skimmed, here and there, the surface of a vast ocean of truth. Though upwards of five hundred Scriptures have been referred to in these pages, yet, hundreds more could have been cited in support of the positions which we have advanced. An exhaustive classification and examination of all the passages which are connected, directly or indirectly, with the subject of the Redeemer's Return, would necessitate
Arthur W. Pink—The Redeemer's Return

A Living Book
[Illustration: (drop cap T) Symbol of "Asshur", the principal Assyrian idol.] There is only one Book that never grows old. For thousands of years men have been writing books. Most books are forgotten soon after they are written; a few of the best and wisest are remembered for a time. But all at last grow old; new discoveries are made; new ideas arise; the old books are out of date; their usefulness is at an end. Students are the only people who still care to read them. The nations to which the
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making

Parable of the Pharisee and Publican.
^C Luke XVIII. 9-14. ^c 9 And he spake also this parable unto certain who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and set all others at nought [It is commonly said that this parable teaches humility in prayer, but the preface and conclusion (see verse 14) show that it is indeed to set forth generally the difference between self-righteousness and humility, and that an occasion of prayer is chosen because it best illustrates the point which the Lord desired to teach. The parable shows that
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Nahum
Poetically the little book of Nahum is one of the finest in the Old Testament. Its descriptions are vivid and impetuous: they set us before the walls of the beleaguered Nineveh, and show us the war-chariots of her enemies darting to and fro like lightning, ii. 4, the prancing steeds, the flashing swords, the glittering spears, iii. 2,3. The poetry glows with passionate joy as it contemplates the ruin of cruel and victorious Assyria. In the opening chapter, i., ii. 2, Jehovah is represented as coming
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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