Old Testament
Nahum 1:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Nahum 1:9, the prophet questions those who plot against God, emphasizing that their efforts are futile.
- Author
- Nahum the prophet
- Written
- Around 650 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah concerning Nineveh
What are you plotting against the LORD? He will bring complete destruction; trouble will not come a second time.
What do ye imagine against the LORD? he will make an utter end: affliction shall not rise up the second time.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Nahum 1:9, the prophet questions those who plot against God, emphasizing that their efforts are futile. The verse assures that God will bring about total destruction of His enemies, indicating that their troubles will not return. This reflects God's sovereignty and power over all opposition. The imagery of complete destruction suggests that God will decisively deal with those who oppose Him, ensuring that they will not rise again to trouble His people. The verse serves as a warning to those who would defy God, highlighting that their plans are ultimately doomed to fail. It reassures the faithful that God is in control and will protect them from harm. This message of divine justice and protection is central to the book of Nahum, which focuses on God's judgment against Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, known for its cruelty and idolatry. The verse encourages believers to trust in God's ability to deliver them from their adversaries and to recognize the futility of opposing His will.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Nahum 1:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's power and justice. When facing opposition or challenges, we can find comfort in knowing that God is in control and will ultimately protect us. It reminds us to avoid plotting against others and instead focus on our relationship with God, who fights our battles.
Curated for this public verse page. Nahum Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Nahum 1:9 mean?
Nahum 1:9 questions those who plot against God, asserting that their plans are futile. It emphasizes that God will bring complete destruction to His enemies, ensuring that they will not rise again to trouble His people.
What is the meaning of complete destruction in Nahum 1:9?
Complete destruction in Nahum 1:9 signifies God's total judgment against His adversaries. It indicates that God will decisively eliminate those who oppose Him, ensuring they cannot return to cause harm.
How does Nahum 1:9 relate to God's protection?
Nahum 1:9 reassures the faithful that God is in control and will protect them from harm. It emphasizes that God will decisively deal with those who threaten His people.
What themes are present in Nahum 1:9?
Key themes in Nahum 1:9 include God's sovereignty, divine judgment, the futility of opposition, and the protection of the faithful. It highlights the certainty of God's justice against His enemies.

The Book of Nahum
Nahum 1: The Lord's Vengeance and Good News for Judah
The burden of Nineveh comes through Nahum the Elkoshite. The Lord is jealous and takes vengeance; He is slow to anger but great in power and does not acquit the wicked. He walks in the whirlwind and storm, and the clouds are the dust of His feet. He rebukes the sea and makes it dry, dries up rivers, and causes Bashan, Carmel, and Lebanon to wither. The mountains quake at Him, the hills melt, and the earth burns at His presence. No one can stand before His indignation.
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