Nahum 3:10

Yet she became an exile; she went into captivity. Her infants were dashed to pieces at the head of every street. They cast lots for her dignitaries, and all her nobles were bound in chains.

Study Bible

Yet she became an exile
The phrase "became an exile" refers to the fate of Thebes, a powerful city that was conquered and its people displaced. The Hebrew root for "exile" is "gālah," which means to uncover or remove. This conveys the idea of being stripped away from one's homeland and identity. Historically, exile was a common consequence of conquest, serving as a tool for subjugation and control. Thebes' fall serves as a warning to Nineveh, illustrating that even the mightiest can be brought low.

she went into captivity
The term "captivity" is derived from the Hebrew "šāḇâ," meaning to take captive or imprison. This emphasizes the totality of Thebes' defeat, where the inhabitants were not only exiled but also subjected to bondage. Captivity in the ancient world often involved forced labor and loss of freedom, symbolizing the complete subjugation of a people. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of pride and rebellion against God.

Her infants were dashed to pieces
This phrase is a graphic depiction of the brutality of ancient warfare. The Hebrew word "rāṭaṣ" means to dash or shatter, highlighting the merciless nature of Thebes' conquerors. The killing of infants was a tactic to instill fear and ensure the eradication of future generations. This horrific image underscores the severity of divine judgment and the depths of human depravity when nations turn away from God.

at the head of every street
The "head of every street" signifies the public and widespread nature of the atrocities committed. Streets, being central to city life, represent the heart of the community. The destruction occurring in such visible places indicates the totality of the city's downfall and serves as a public testament to its defeat. This imagery reinforces the message that no place is safe from judgment when a nation defies God.

They cast lots for her nobles
Casting lots was an ancient practice used to make decisions or divide spoils. The Hebrew "gôrāl" refers to a lot or portion. This phrase indicates the dehumanization and commodification of Thebes' leaders, who were reduced to mere objects of chance. The casting of lots for nobles symbolizes the complete reversal of their status and power, serving as a humbling reminder of the fleeting nature of earthly authority.

all her great men were bound in chains
The binding of "great men" in chains signifies the total subjugation and humiliation of Thebes' leaders. The Hebrew "ʾāsar" means to bind or imprison, illustrating the loss of freedom and dignity. Chains are a powerful symbol of captivity and powerlessness, emphasizing that no human strength can withstand divine judgment. This serves as a cautionary tale for those who place their trust in worldly power rather than in God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Thebes (No-Amon)
An ancient city in Egypt, known for its wealth and power. It serves as a historical example of a city that fell despite its strength and alliances.

2. Exile and Captivity
The fate of Thebes, symbolizing the complete overthrow and humiliation of a once-great city.

3. Infants Dashed to Pieces
A brutal act of violence, illustrating the total destruction and lack of mercy shown to the defeated.

4. Nobles and Great Men
The leaders and influential figures of Thebes, who were humiliated and enslaved, showing the reversal of fortunes.

5. Casting Lots
A method used to divide the spoils of war, indicating the complete subjugation and dehumanization of the conquered people.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of Divine Judgment
God's judgment is inevitable for those who oppose Him, as seen in the fall of Thebes. No earthly power can withstand His will.

The Consequences of Pride and Idolatry
Thebes' downfall serves as a warning against pride and reliance on false gods. Nations and individuals must humble themselves before God.

The Reality of Human Suffering in Judgment
The graphic imagery of infants and nobles highlights the severe consequences of sin and rebellion. It calls believers to compassion and intercession for those facing judgment.

The Sovereignty of God Over Nations
God is sovereign over all nations, and He uses historical events to fulfill His purposes. Believers can trust in His ultimate plan and justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fall of Thebes serve as a warning to nations and individuals today about the consequences of pride and idolatry?

2. In what ways can we see the sovereignty of God in the events described in Nahum 3:10, and how does this encourage us in our current world situation?

3. How can the imagery of suffering in Nahum 3:10 inspire us to pray for and support those who are experiencing similar hardships today?

4. What parallels can we draw between the judgment of Thebes and the warnings given to other nations in the Bible, such as Babylon or Egypt?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Nahum 3:10 to our personal lives, particularly in terms of humility and reliance on God rather than worldly power or alliances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 13:16
This verse also speaks of the brutality of war and the fate of infants, drawing a parallel to the judgment upon Babylon.

Ezekiel 30:14-16
These verses prophesy the downfall of Egyptian cities, including Thebes, highlighting God's judgment against nations.

Psalm 137:9
This verse reflects the sorrow and desire for justice among the exiled Israelites, similar to the fate of Thebes.