Nahum 3:7 - It will happen that all those who look at you will flee from you, and say, ‘Nineveh is laid waste! Who will mourn for her?’ Where will I seek comforters for you?”

Generated Verse: Nahum 3:7

What does "Nahum 3:7" mean?


This verse from Nahum 3:7 is a prophetic statement about the utter devastation and isolation that will befall the city of Nineveh. Let's break it down:

"It will happen that all those who look at you will flee from you...": This describes the fear and revulsion Nineveh will inspire in others. The city, once a powerful and imposing capital, will be so utterly destroyed that even those who might have been allies or sympathizers will want to distance themselves from its ruin. They will flee at the sight of its destruction, not wanting to be associated with its fate.

"...and say, ‘Nineveh is laid waste!'": This expresses the complete and total destruction of Nineveh. "Laid waste" suggests that the city is not just damaged, but utterly ruined, likely through violent conquest and fire. It's a statement of finality.

"Who will mourn for her?'": This highlights Nineveh's complete isolation and lack of sympathy. Because of its wickedness, cruelty, and oppressiveness (which are detailed elsewhere in the book of Nahum), nobody will genuinely grieve its downfall. No one will feel sorrow or pity for the city or its people. Nineveh's reputation was so tarnished that its destruction will be met with indifference, or even satisfaction.

"Where will I seek comforters for you?'": This final question, posed by God (through the prophet Nahum), emphasizes the complete lack of consolation or solace for Nineveh. Even God seems to imply that finding anyone to comfort the city in its destruction will be an impossible task. There will be no one to offer solace, sympathy, or assistance. The city is utterly and irrevocably alone in its despair.

In summary, the verse paints a picture of:

Total destruction: Nineveh will be completely ruined.
Fear and avoidance: Others will flee from the sight of its ruin.
Lack of sympathy: No one will mourn its downfall.
Complete isolation: There will be no comfort or help for the city.

The meaning behind this prophecy is that Nineveh's wickedness and cruelty had reached a point where it deserved divine judgment. The city's downfall was seen as just and inevitable, and its isolation in its suffering was a reflection of its isolation from righteousness and compassion. This verse serves as a warning about the consequences of unchecked pride, violence, and oppression.

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