Nahum 3:5

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

هاءَنَذا إِلَيكِ، يَقولُ رَبُّ القُوَّات، فأَرفَعُ ذُيولَ ثَوبِكِ على وَجهِكِ، وأُري الأُمَمَ عَورَتَكِ والمَمالِكَ هَوانَكِ.

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, God is speaking directly to the city of Nineveh, saying He will expose their secrets and shame them in front of other nations. This shows God's judgment against a proud and wicked nation.

Explained for Children

Imagine if you did something really bad and your mom said she would tell everyone about it. That's what God is saying to the city of Nineveh here. He wants them to know that their bad actions will be shown to all, like when you hide under a blanket but someone lifts it up.

Historical Background

Nahum wrote this prophecy around 615 B.C., during a turbulent time in ancient Near Eastern history. The audience was the Assyrian capital Nineveh, which had been known for its brutal conquests and cruelty. Nahum’s message is one of impending judgment from God.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, we can apply this verse to situations where people hide their mistakes or sins but eventually are exposed. It reminds us that our actions have consequences and that truth will come out in the end.

Topics

• judgment
• exposure
• sin
• consequences
• divine justice
• humility

Related Verses

• Isaiah 47:3
• Ezekiel 16:37-38
• Jeremiah 29:15-16
• Matthew 10:26
• Romans 2:16

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean when God says He will 'discover thy skirts upon thy face'?

It means that God is going to expose Nineveh's secrets and sins, showing them for what they are. Just like lifting up someone’s skirt would reveal something private.

Can this verse be applied to modern nations or just ancient ones?

Yes, it can apply to any nation that acts with pride and cruelty, reminding us that all actions have consequences and will eventually be revealed.

How does Nahum's message of judgment relate to God’s love?

While this verse focuses on judgment, it is part of a larger picture where God also offers forgiveness. Judgment often comes as a call to repentance.

What can we learn from the historical context of Nahum's prophecy about Nineveh?

We learn that God’s justice applies universally and that no nation or individual is exempt from being held accountable for their actions, even if they are powerful.