Old Testament
Nahum 2:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He will call his worthies; they will stumble as they hurry to the wall, and the defense will be prepared.
Compare translations
He shall recount his worthies: they shall stumble in their walk; they shall make haste to the wall thereof, and the defence shall be prepared.
What Nahum 2:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Nahum 2:5, the imagery depicts a scene of chaos and urgency as the leaders of Nineveh, referred to as 'worthies,' are called to action. However, instead of moving confidently, they stumble in their haste to defend the city. This suggests a sense of panic and disarray among those who are supposed to be in control. The mention of the wall indicates a defensive posture, as the city prepares for an impending attack. The verse highlights the futility of relying solely on human strength and strategy in the face of divine judgment. The leaders' hurried actions contrast with the certainty of the coming destruction, emphasizing that no amount of preparation can save them from their fate. This serves as a reminder of the importance of being grounded in faith and not merely relying on our own abilities or resources when facing challenges.
How to apply Nahum 2:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives when faced with challenges. Instead of rushing into action out of fear or panic, we should seek guidance and strength from our faith. Trusting in God can provide clarity and peace, even in chaotic situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Nahum Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Nahum 2:5
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Nahum 2:5
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Nahum
- Author
- Nahum the prophet
- Written
- Around 650 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah concerning Nineveh
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Nahum 2:5 mean in context?
Nahum 2:5 describes the leaders of Nineveh, referred to as 'worthies,' being called to defend their city in a time of crisis. The verse illustrates their panic and disarray as they stumble in their haste to prepare for an impending attack. This reflects the broader theme of divine judgment, emphasizing that despite their efforts, they cannot escape the consequences of their actions. It serves as a warning about the limitations of human strength when faced with divine authority.
How can Nahum 2:5 apply to modern life?
Nahum 2:5 teaches us the importance of remaining calm and seeking divine guidance during chaotic times. In our own lives, when faced with challenges or crises, we may feel the urge to act quickly out of fear. This verse reminds us to pause, reflect, and trust in God rather than relying solely on our own abilities. By grounding ourselves in faith, we can find clarity and peace, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.
What is the significance of 'worthies' in Nahum 2:5?
The term 'worthies' in Nahum 2:5 refers to the leaders or prominent figures of Nineveh who are expected to take charge during a crisis. Their hurried and stumbling actions symbolize a lack of true leadership and control in the face of impending doom. This highlights the theme of chaos in leadership and the futility of human efforts when divine judgment is at hand, suggesting that true strength comes from faith rather than human authority.
What themes are present in Nahum 2:5?
Nahum 2:5 encompasses several key themes, including divine judgment, chaos in leadership, urgency and panic, the futility of human efforts, and preparation for defense. These themes illustrate the consequences of turning away from God and relying on human strength, emphasizing that no amount of preparation can avert divine judgment. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and reliance on God in times of trouble.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.