Old Testament
Nahum 2:13
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God declares His opposition to Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, symbolizing His judgment against them.
- Author
- Nahum the prophet
- Written
- Around 650 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah concerning Nineveh
"Look — I am against you," declares the LORD of hosts. "I will burn your chariots to smoke, and the sword will devour your young lions. I will cut off your prey from the earth, and the voices of your messengers will never be heard again."
Behold, I am against thee, saith the LORD of hosts, and I will burn her chariots in the smoke, and the sword shall devour thy young lions: and I will cut off thy prey from the earth, and the voice of thy messengers shall no more be heard.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God declares His opposition to Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, symbolizing His judgment against them. The imagery of burning chariots and devouring lions signifies the destruction of their military power and the loss of their strength. The mention of cutting off their prey indicates that their resources and conquests will be taken away, leading to their downfall. The final statement about the silence of their messengers suggests that their influence and communication will cease, highlighting the totality of their defeat. This passage serves as a warning about the consequences of pride and violence, emphasizing that no power can stand against God's will.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Nahum 2:13 to your life
This verse reminds us that pride and oppression lead to downfall. We should reflect on our actions and ensure they align with justice and humility. Trusting in God's justice can provide comfort in times of trouble, knowing that He will address wrongdoing.
Curated for this public verse page. Nahum Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Nahum 2:13 mean?
Nahum 2:13 expresses God's judgment against Nineveh, indicating that He will destroy their military strength and resources. The verse uses vivid imagery to show the total defeat of Assyria, emphasizing that no power can withstand God's will.
What is the significance of chariots in Nahum 2:13?
In Nahum 2:13, chariots symbolize military power and strength. God's promise to burn them signifies the destruction of Nineveh's military capabilities, leading to their downfall.
What does the phrase 'the sword shall devour thy young lions' mean?
The phrase 'the sword shall devour thy young lions' in Nahum 2:13 refers to the destruction of Nineveh's elite warriors or leaders. It highlights the complete annihilation of their fighting force, contributing to their overall defeat.
What is the overall message of Nahum 2:13?
The overall message of Nahum 2:13 is a warning about the consequences of pride and violence. It illustrates that God's judgment will lead to the downfall of those who oppress others and act unjustly.

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.
Unlock the full Nahum summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Nahum — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 3 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Nahum summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.