Cush:

Cush, often identified with the region south of Egypt, is historically associated with the land of Nubia, which corresponds to modern-day Sudan. In the biblical narrative, Cush is frequently mentioned in the context of its interactions with Israel and other nations. The prophetic literature of the Old Testament includes specific judgments pronounced against Cush, reflecting its role in the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East.

The prophet Isaiah addresses Cush in a passage that highlights both its power and the impending judgment from God. Isaiah 18 describes Cush as a land of "whirring wings," a reference to its location beyond the rivers of Ethiopia. The chapter speaks of a people "tall and smooth-skinned," feared far and wide, and a nation "powerful and oppressive" (Isaiah 18:2). Despite its might, the prophecy foretells a time when Cush will bring tribute to Mount Zion, acknowledging the sovereignty of the LORD.

Zephaniah also prophesies against Cush, declaring that the LORD's sword will be directed against it: "You too, O Cushites, will be slain by My sword" (Zephaniah 2:12). This judgment is part of a broader series of pronouncements against the nations surrounding Israel, emphasizing God's control over all nations and His ultimate plan for justice.

Assyria:

Assyria was one of the most formidable empires of the ancient world, known for its military prowess and expansive conquests. It played a significant role in the history of Israel and Judah, often as an instrument of divine judgment. However, the prophets also foretold Assyria's downfall as a demonstration of God's justice and sovereignty.

The prophet Isaiah delivers a message of judgment against Assyria, highlighting its arrogance and the LORD's response. In Isaiah 10, Assyria is depicted as the rod of God's anger, used to punish a godless nation. Yet, the Assyrian king's pride and self-exaltation lead to his own judgment: "When the Lord has finished all His work against Mount Zion and Jerusalem, He will say, 'I will punish the king of Assyria for the willful pride of his heart and the haughty look in his eyes'" (Isaiah 10:12).

Nahum's prophecy is entirely dedicated to the fall of Nineveh, the capital of Assyria. Nahum 1:1-3 declares the LORD's vengeance against His adversaries, emphasizing His power and justice. The book vividly describes the destruction of Nineveh, portraying it as a city of bloodshed and deceit, ultimately brought low by the LORD's hand.

The judgment on Assyria serves as a reminder of God's control over history and His ability to humble even the mightiest of empires. The fall of Assyria is a testament to the LORD's commitment to justice and His protection of His people, as seen in the deliverance of Jerusalem from Sennacherib's siege during Hezekiah's reign (2 Kings 19:35-37).

These prophetic declarations against Cush and Assyria underscore the biblical theme of divine judgment against nations that oppose God's will, while also pointing to the hope of restoration and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty by all peoples.