Nahum

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Hebrew Naḥûm (“comfort” or “consolation”), a name that contrasts with his message of judgment on Assyria.
• Period/Era: Divided Kingdom
• Main References: Nahum 1–3
• Key Connections: Identified as “the Elkoshite” (Nahum 1:1); proclaims an oracle concerning Nineveh, capital of Assyria.

Who was Nahum?

Nahum was an Old Testament prophet whose words are preserved in the book that bears his name.
He is described as “the Elkoshite,” indicating an association with a place called Elkosh (Nahum 1:1).
His prophecy centers on the LORD’s impending judgment against Nineveh, the Assyrian capital.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Delivered an oracle announcing the LORD’s vengeance and justice against Nineveh (Nahum 1:1–8).
• Event 2: Declared that Assyria’s oppression would end and that Nineveh’s power would collapse (Nahum 1:9–15; 2:13).
• Event 3: Described Nineveh’s downfall as deserved retribution for violence and exploitation among nations (Nahum 3:1–7, 18–19).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Nahum’s prophecy portrays the LORD as ruling over nations and holding imperial power accountable for sustained violence.

Key Verse

"The LORD is slow to anger but great in power; the LORD will not leave the guilty unpunished." — Nahum 1:3, NIV