Old Testament
Nahum 2:8
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But Nineveh is of old like a pool of water; yet they shall flee away. 'Stop! Stop!' they cry, but no one looks back.
Compare translations
But Nineveh is of old like a pool of water: yet they shall flee away. Stand, stand, shall they cry; but none shall look back.
What Nahum 2:8 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, is compared to a pool of water, suggesting that it once had a sense of stability and abundance. However, the imagery shifts to a scene of panic and flight, indicating that the people will flee in fear. The cries of 'Stop! Stop!' reflect their desperation, yet no one is willing to turn back to face the danger. This highlights the futility of their situation; even in their distress, they are unable to confront the reality of their impending doom. The verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the inevitable judgment that follows. Nineveh, once a powerful city, is now facing destruction, illustrating the transient nature of human strength and the importance of heeding warnings before it is too late.
How to apply Nahum 2:8 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the consequences of our actions and the importance of repentance. Just as Nineveh faced judgment, we too must be aware of our choices and their impact. It serves as a reminder to confront our fears and not flee from the truth, as ignoring it can lead to dire consequences.
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 2:8
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 2:8
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 2:8 mean?
Nahum 2:8 compares Nineveh to a pool of water, indicating its former stability and abundance. However, it depicts a scene of panic as the people flee, highlighting their inability to confront the impending destruction.
What is the significance of Nineveh in Nahum 2:8?
Nineveh represents a once-powerful city facing judgment and destruction due to its sins. The verse illustrates the consequences of ignoring warnings and the fleeting nature of human strength.
What does the phrase 'Stop! Stop!' in Nahum 2:8 signify?
The cries of 'Stop! Stop!' reflect the desperation of the people as they flee from danger. It emphasizes their fear and the futility of their situation, as no one is willing to turn back.
What themes are present in Nahum 2:8?
Key themes in Nahum 2:8 include judgment, destruction, fear, and the importance of repentance. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the transient nature of human strength.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.