Book of Nahum facts for kids

The Book of Nahum is a short book found in the Bible. It's part of the Old Testament, which is also known as the Jewish Tanakh. This book shares an important message from God.

We don't know a lot about the person named Nahum. His name means "comforter." He was from a town called Elkosh or Alqosh, possibly in northern Galilee. Nahum was a Hebrew prophet. He likely wrote his book from Jerusalem, not long before the powerful nation of Assyria fell.

Who Was Nahum?

Nahum was a prophet, which means he shared messages from God. His name, "comforter," gives us a clue about his message. Even though his book talks about destruction, it also brings comfort to those who trust in God.

He lived around the 7th century BC. This was a time when the Assyrian Empire was very strong. Nahum's message was mainly for the people of Nineveh, the capital city of Assyria.

Nineveh: A Powerful City

Nineveh was the capital of the huge Assyrian Empire. It was one of the biggest and most important cities in the world back then. Nineveh was a center for civilization and trade. Its king, Ashurbanipal, was at the peak of his power.

Long before Nahum, another prophet named Jonah had warned Nineveh. Jonah's story shows that God cared about the people of Nineveh. But Nahum's message was different.

What is the Book of Nahum About?

Nahum's book is mostly about the coming destruction of Nineveh. God would punish the Assyrians because of their harsh actions. The book tells us that God is fair and just. He will not let bad deeds go unpunished.

Nineveh was eventually destroyed by fire around 612 BC. This event led to the quick end of the Assyrian Empire. This downfall changed the future of many nations in Asia.

God's Message in Nahum

The Book of Nahum shows us different sides of God.

• It says God is "slow to anger." This means He is patient.
• But it also says God will not ignore those who are guilty. He will bring them to justice.
• God is shown as someone who will punish evil.
• At the same time, He will protect those who trust in Him.

Structure of the Book

The Book of Nahum is quite short, with three chapters:

• Chapter one talks about the greatness and power of God. It shows both His kindness and His strictness.
• Chapters two and three describe the final fall of Nineveh. This happened in 612 BC. Nahum writes about a war. He describes Nineveh's army trying to stop invaders.

Nahum uses poetry to make his writing feel like you are right there in the battle. He even gives commands to the soldiers. He uses irony when he talks about the lion. The lion was a symbol of Assyrian power. Nahum says Nineveh, once a strong lion, will become weak. The book ends with a song about Nineveh's destruction. It also tells of the end of the Assyrian rulers.

Images for kids

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  Simplified plan of ancient Nineveh, showing city wall and location of gateways.

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  Nahum and the destruction of Nineveh; Illuminated Bible from the 1220s, National Library of Portugal

See also

In Spanish: Libro de Nahum para niños