Old Testament
Nahum 3:14
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Nahum 3:14, the prophet Nahum delivers a message to Nineveh, urging them to prepare for an impending siege.
- Author
- Nahum the prophet
- Written
- Around 650 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah concerning Nineveh
Store up water for the siege! Reinforce your fortresses! Get into the clay pits, stomp the mortar, and fire up the brick kilns!
Draw thee waters for the siege, fortify thy strong holds: go into clay, and tread the morter, make strong the brickkiln.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Nahum 3:14, the prophet Nahum delivers a message to Nineveh, urging them to prepare for an impending siege. The call to 'store up water' signifies the need for resources during a time of attack, while 'reinforce your fortresses' emphasizes the importance of strengthening defenses. The instructions to 'get into the clay pits' and 'stomp the mortar' suggest that the people should actively engage in building and repairing their walls and structures, ensuring they are ready for the battle ahead. This verse highlights the urgency of preparation in the face of danger, illustrating that even a powerful city like Nineveh must take practical steps to defend itself. The imagery of brick kilns also points to the necessity of creating strong materials for construction, symbolizing the effort required to withstand challenges. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder that preparation and diligence are crucial when facing adversity, as neglect can lead to downfall.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Nahum 3:14 to your life
In our lives, we often face challenges that require us to be prepared. Just as Nineveh was urged to fortify its defenses, we should take proactive steps to strengthen our own lives—be it through building relationships, enhancing skills, or seeking spiritual growth. Preparation can make a significant difference in overcoming obstacles.
Curated for this public verse page. Nahum Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Nahum 3:14 mean?
Nahum 3:14 is a warning to Nineveh, urging the city to prepare for an impending siege by gathering resources and strengthening its defenses. The verse emphasizes the need for practical actions to ensure survival during an attack.
What is the significance of 'store up water' in Nahum 3:14?
The phrase 'store up water' in Nahum 3:14 signifies the importance of gathering essential resources in anticipation of a siege. It highlights the need for preparation to sustain the city during a time of crisis.
What does 'fortify thy strong holds' mean in Nahum 3:14?
'Fortify thy strong holds' in Nahum 3:14 means to strengthen the city's defenses against an attack. This instruction underscores the urgency of making the city secure to withstand the siege.
What is the message of Nahum 3:14?
The message of Nahum 3:14 is a call to action for Nineveh to prepare for an imminent siege by reinforcing its defenses and gathering necessary materials. It stresses the importance of being proactive in the face of danger.
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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