Old Testament

Nahum 3:5

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, God is declaring His judgment against Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, which had been known for its cruelty and wickedness.

Author
Nahum the prophet
Written
Around 650 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah concerning Nineveh
CBTClear Bible Translation

"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."

KJVKing James Version

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.

Verse Analysis

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

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.

The Book of Nahum
Book Summary

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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