Nahum 2:8

Arabic SAB (الكتاب الشريف)

صَارَتْ نِينَوَى كَبِرْكَةٍ جَفَّ مَاؤُهَا، لِأَنَّ أَهْلَهَا هَرَبُوا مِنْهَا. لَمْ يَلْتَفِتُوا لِمَنْ قَالَ لَهُمْ: ”قِفُوا! قِفُوا!“

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Nahum describes the city of Nineveh as once being like a pool full of water, but now its people are fleeing away. Despite cries to stop and stand their ground, no one looks back as they flee.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a big swimming pool in your backyard that used to be very full of water, but now all the water is quickly draining out. The verse talks about how a city called Nineveh was once full like that pool, but its people are running away so fast that they can't even stop or look back.

Historical Background

Nahum wrote this prophecy around 612 BC as judgment approached on the Assyrian capital of Nineveh. The audience is likely Israelites and other nations threatened by Assyria's power, reflecting a time when Nineveh was known for its military might and dominance.

Living It Out Today

This verse can remind us about times when we face overwhelming challenges that make us want to run away. It encourages us to consider whether standing firm or moving forward with intention is the right response in tough situations rather than panicking and fleeing.

Topics

• judgment
• flight
• perseverance
• Nineveh
• prophetic warnings
• divine retribution

Related Verses

• Jeremiah 50:38
• Isaiah 13:21-22
• Revelation 6:14-17
• Hosea 5:14
• Lamentations 2:9

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Nineveh compared to a pool of water?

The comparison highlights how once full and powerful, like water in a pool, the city was now emptying out as people fled, symbolizing the loss of strength and stability.

What does it mean by 'cry stand, stand'?

It indicates attempts to rally or stop those fleeing, likely from leaders trying to maintain control amidst chaos, but these calls are ineffective.

Who was Nahum prophesying to?

Nahum was primarily speaking to the Israelites and other nations threatened by Assyria, predicting Nineveh's downfall as divine judgment for their actions.

How can we apply this verse today?

This verse encourages us to reflect on our reactions in difficult times. It suggests considering a firm stance or moving forward with intention rather than reacting out of fear and panic.