Old Testament
Nahum 3:11
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Nahum 3:11, the prophet Nahum addresses Nineveh, predicting that the city will experience a downfall similar to that of its enemies.
- Author
- Nahum the prophet
- Written
- Around 650 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah concerning Nineveh
You too will be drunk; you will be hidden. You will also seek strength because of the enemy.
Thou also shalt be drunken: thou shalt be hid, thou also shalt seek strength because of the enemy.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Nahum 3:11, the prophet Nahum addresses Nineveh, predicting that the city will experience a downfall similar to that of its enemies. The imagery of drunkenness suggests a state of confusion and helplessness. Nineveh, once powerful and feared, will find itself in a position of vulnerability, seeking strength but unable to find it. The verse emphasizes the consequences of their actions and the inevitability of judgment. The mention of being 'hidden' indicates that they will be in a state of retreat or hiding from their enemies, unable to confront the reality of their situation. This serves as a warning that no matter how strong a city or nation may seem, they can fall when they stray from righteousness and justice. The verse encapsulates the theme of divine retribution, showing that those who oppress others will ultimately face their own downfall.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Nahum 3:11 to your life
This verse reminds us that pride and oppression can lead to downfall. We should strive for humility and justice in our actions, recognizing that true strength comes from righteousness. In times of trouble, instead of seeking power through deceit or oppression, we should seek genuine strength through integrity and faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Nahum Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Nahum 3:11 mean for Nineveh?
Nahum 3:11 serves as a prophecy of judgment against Nineveh, indicating that the city will face a downfall similar to that of its enemies. The imagery of drunkenness symbolizes confusion and helplessness, suggesting that Nineveh, once a powerful force, will find itself vulnerable and seeking strength in a time of crisis. This verse highlights the consequences of their oppressive actions and the inevitability of divine judgment.
How can Nahum 3:11 apply to our lives today?
Nahum 3:11 teaches us the importance of humility and justice. It serves as a reminder that pride and oppression can lead to our downfall. In our own lives, we should strive to act with integrity and seek strength through righteousness rather than deceit. This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and their consequences, urging us to pursue justice and humility in our relationships and communities.
What themes are present in Nahum 3:11?
The key themes in Nahum 3:11 include judgment, vulnerability, divine retribution, and the consequences of sin. The verse illustrates how even the mightiest can fall when they stray from righteousness. It emphasizes that those who oppress others will ultimately face their own downfall, reinforcing the idea that true strength lies in justice and integrity.
Why does Nahum mention being 'hidden' in this verse?
The mention of being 'hidden' in Nahum 3:11 signifies a state of retreat or hiding from enemies. It reflects Nineveh's impending vulnerability and inability to confront their situation. This imagery underscores the consequences of their actions, illustrating that those who once wielded power may find themselves in a position of fear and desperation when faced with judgment.
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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