Nahum 2:10

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Nahum 2:1 Nahum 2:2 Nahum 2:3 Nahum 2:4 Nahum 2:5 Nahum 2:6 Nahum 2:7 Nahum 2:8 Nahum 2:9 Nahum 2:10 Nahum 2:11 Nahum 2:12 Nahum 2:13

Nahum 2:10 KJV

She is empty, and void, and waste: and the heart melteth, and the knees smite together, and much pain is in all loins, and the faces of them all gather blackness.

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Nahum 2:10 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Nahum 2:10

The Book of Nahum presents a vivid poetic indictment against Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, detailing the inevitable downfall of this once mighty empire. Nahum 2:10 encapsulates the devastation and emotional turmoil that comes with God's judgement. This commentary draws from the insights of esteemed public domain commentaries, providing a comprehensive reflection on this verse.

Verse (Nahum 2:10, KJV): "She is empty, and void, and waste: and the heart melteth, and the knees smite together, and much pain is in all loins, and the faces of them all gather blackness."

Exegesis of Nahum 2:10

This verse serves as a stark proclamation of the desolation awaiting Nineveh. Each phrase reveals the depth of the city's impending ruin.

  • “She is empty, and void, and waste”: This imagery portrays the total desolation of Nineveh. The terms 'empty' and 'void' indicate a complete barrenness, suggesting the effective removal of life and vitality.
  • “The heart melteth”: This phrase underlines the psychological impact of the destruction. The inhabitants, filled with fear and dread, experience a profound emotional meltdown as they face the certainty of divine retribution.
  • “The knees smite together”: This depiction of physical reactions to fear conveys the depth of terror engulfing Nineveh as invaders approach. The imagery is one of instinctual response to imminent danger.
  • “Much pain is in all loins”: The physical suffering implied here reinforces the idea of overwhelming fear and stress, indicating that the emotional turmoil manifests in bodily pain.
  • “The faces of them all gather blackness”: The darkening of faces symbolizes despair and hopelessness. A formerly proud and powerful people now rendered powerless, their countenances reflect their inner dread.

Theological Insights

Nahum 2:10 highlights several key theological principles relevant to understanding divine justice and human accountability.

  • Divine Justice: The inevitable judgement upon Nineveh serves as a reminder of God's justice. The text illustrates that, despite their previous successes and power, no one is beyond the reach of divine judgement. As Matthew Henry comments, God will not permit the wicked to go unpunished.
  • Emotional Consequences of Sin: This verse emphasizes the profound emotional and physical consequences of sin. The reaction described is universal; guilt and fear manifest in the body, illustrating how spiritual conditions influence physical states. Adam Clarke notes the cascading effects of sin leading to darkness and despair.
  • Hope amidst Despair: While the message is one of destruction, it serves to remind of the hope found in God for those who turn to Him. Albert Barnes stresses that while judgement is certain for the wicked, deliverance is always available for the repentant.

Historical Context

Understanding Nahum within its historical context enriches the comprehension of its themes.

  • Historical Setting: Written in a time when Assyria was at the height of its power, Nahum’s prophecy comes as a stark reminder that geopolitical circumstances can change rapidly under God’s providence. The Assyrians were known for their cruelty and military prowess, making their impending fall all the more shocking.
  • Message for the People: For the people of Judah, this message was one of hope and vindication. Ralph Barnes states that it reassured them of God’s oversight amidst their suffering under Assyrian oppression. The judgement pronounced by Nahum indicates a forthcoming end to their torment.

Application for Today

Nahum 2:10 has implications for contemporary readers, especially for pastors, theologians, and scholars.

  • Consequences of Sin: The verse reminds us that unrepentant sin leads to dire consequences, both spiritually and emotionally. It calls for a reflection on personal and communal integrity.
  • The Nature of Fear: Understanding emotional responses to judgement can help in pastoral care. The physical manifestations of fear underscore the need for compassion and understanding when counseling those concerned about their spiritual state.
  • Hope in Judgement: Pastors should also remember to communicate the hope found in Christ, even amidst messages of judgement. There remains a tangible promise of salvation for those who seek it, paralleling Judah’s hope during Nahum’s prophecy.

The power of Nahum 2:10 lies not only in its vivid imagery but also in its deeper theological and emotional dimensions. It serves as a piercing reminder of the reality of divine judgement, the psychological impacts of sin, and the unchanging hope for those who seek God's mercy. As we reflect on this passage, may we be encouraged to live lives of integrity, acknowledging the weight of sin while also embracing the grace found in repentance.

Nahum 2 (KJV) Verse Selection

Nahum 2:1 Nahum 2:2 Nahum 2:3 Nahum 2:4 Nahum 2:5 Nahum 2:6 Nahum 2:7 Nahum 2:8 Nahum 2:9 Nahum 2:10 Nahum 2:11 Nahum 2:12 Nahum 2:13

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