Nahum 3:5

"Behold, I am against you," declares the LORD of Hosts. "I will lift your skirts over your face. I will show your nakedness to the nations and your shame to the kingdoms.

Study Bible

I am against you
This phrase is a direct declaration from God, emphasizing His opposition to Nineveh. The Hebrew word for "against" is "עָלֶיךָ" (aleikha), which conveys a sense of direct confrontation. Historically, Nineveh was the capital of the Assyrian Empire, known for its brutality and idolatry. God's opposition signifies a divine judgment against their sins, reminding us that no power, however mighty, can stand against the Lord of Hosts.

declares the LORD of Hosts
The title "LORD of Hosts" (YHWH Sabaoth) underscores God's supreme authority over all heavenly and earthly armies. It is a reminder of His omnipotence and sovereignty. In the context of Nahum, this title reassures the faithful that God commands the forces of the universe and will execute justice. The historical backdrop of Assyria's military dominance is contrasted with the ultimate power of God, who controls all destinies.

I will lift your skirts over your face
This vivid imagery is a metaphor for exposing shame and guilt. In ancient Near Eastern culture, modesty was highly valued, and uncovering one's nakedness was a sign of disgrace. The Hebrew word "שׁוּלַיִךְ" (shulayikh) refers to the hem or skirt, symbolizing the exposure of hidden sins. This act of divine exposure serves as a warning that God will reveal the true nature of sin, bringing hidden iniquities to light.

I will show the nations your nakedness
The phrase indicates a public display of Nineveh's disgrace before other nations. The Hebrew root "עָרְוָה" (ervah) for "nakedness" implies vulnerability and humiliation. Historically, Assyria had been a dominant force, feared by many. God's judgment would reverse this, making them an object lesson for other nations. It serves as a reminder that pride and oppression will ultimately lead to downfall and exposure.

and the kingdoms your shame
The word "shame" (קָלוֹן, kalon) in Hebrew conveys dishonor and disgrace. This phrase extends the scope of Nineveh's humiliation beyond its immediate borders to the broader geopolitical landscape. The kingdoms that once trembled before Assyria would witness its downfall, reinforcing the biblical principle that God humbles the proud. This serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the justice of God, who holds all nations accountable.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD of Hosts
This title emphasizes God's supreme authority and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It underscores His ability to execute judgment.

2. Nineveh
The capital of the Assyrian Empire, known for its great power and cruelty. Nahum's prophecy is directed against this city, symbolizing the downfall of a sinful and oppressive regime.

3. Nations and Kingdoms
These represent the surrounding peoples and territories that will witness Nineveh's humiliation and downfall as a result of God's judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is portrayed as the ultimate judge who holds nations accountable for their actions. His declaration, "I am against you," serves as a sobering reminder of His authority over all.

The Consequences of Pride and Sin
Nineveh's exposure and shame are direct results of its pride and cruelty. This serves as a warning that sin, especially on a national scale, leads to disgrace and downfall.

Public Exposure of Sin
The imagery of lifting skirts and exposing nakedness symbolizes the public revelation of sin. It teaches that hidden sins will eventually be brought to light.

The Certainty of Divine Justice
The prophecy assures believers that God's justice will prevail, even when it seems delayed. This encourages trust in God's timing and righteousness.

Repentance and Humility
The passage calls for introspection and repentance, urging individuals and nations to humble themselves before God to avoid similar judgment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the title "LORD of Hosts" in Nahum 3:5 enhance our understanding of God's power and authority in executing judgment?

2. In what ways does the downfall of Nineveh serve as a warning to modern nations and societies?

3. How can the imagery of exposure and shame in Nahum 3:5 be applied to personal accountability and transparency in our lives?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the judgment of Nineveh and the fall of Babylon in Revelation 18, and how do these events encourage believers today?

5. How can we cultivate a spirit of humility and repentance in response to the warnings found in Nahum 3:5, both individually and collectively as a community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 47:3
This verse also speaks of exposing nakedness as a metaphor for judgment and shame, directed at Babylon. It highlights a similar theme of divine retribution against prideful nations.

Jeremiah 13:26
Here, God speaks of exposing the shame of Jerusalem due to its unfaithfulness, paralleling the imagery used in Nahum to convey the consequences of sin.

Revelation 18:7-8
The fall of Babylon the Great in Revelation echoes the themes of judgment and exposure found in Nahum, illustrating the ultimate downfall of all ungodly powers.