Old Testament
Nahum 3:5
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"I am against you," declares the LORD of hosts. "I will lift your skirts over your face. I will expose your nakedness to the nations and your shame to every kingdom."
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Behold, I am against thee, saith the LORD of hosts; and I will discover thy skirts upon thy face, and I will shew the nations thy nakedness, and the kingdoms thy shame.
What Nahum 3:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is declaring His judgment against Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, which had been known for its cruelty and wickedness. The imagery of lifting skirts and exposing nakedness symbolizes shame and humiliation. God is saying that He will reveal the true nature of Nineveh to the surrounding nations, stripping away any false pride and exposing their sins. This act of exposure serves as a warning that no one can hide from God's judgment. The language is vivid and confrontational, emphasizing the seriousness of their actions and the inevitable consequences they will face. The verse illustrates God's sovereignty and His role as a righteous judge who will not tolerate injustice and immorality. It serves as a reminder that nations, like individuals, are accountable for their actions before God.
How to apply Nahum 3:5 to your life
This verse reminds us that our actions have consequences and that we cannot hide from God's judgment. It encourages us to live righteously and be aware of our accountability to God, ensuring that we do not engage in behaviors that lead to shame.
Curated for this public verse page. Nahum Summary
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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 3:5 mean?
Nahum 3:5 expresses God's judgment against Nineveh, symbolizing their impending shame and humiliation. The imagery of lifting skirts and exposing nakedness signifies that God will reveal their sins to the nations, highlighting their cruelty and wickedness.
What is the significance of 'lifting skirts' in Nahum 3:5?
The phrase 'lifting skirts' in Nahum 3:5 symbolizes exposure and humiliation. It indicates that God will strip away Nineveh's false pride and reveal their shameful actions to the surrounding nations.
How does Nahum 3:5 relate to accountability?
Nahum 3:5 illustrates accountability by showing that Nineveh's actions will not go unnoticed by God. It serves as a reminder that both individuals and nations must answer for their behavior before God.
What themes are present in Nahum 3:5?
The themes in Nahum 3:5 include divine judgment, shame and humiliation, accountability, God's sovereignty, and the exposure of sin. These themes highlight the seriousness of moral actions and the consequences that follow.
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