Nahum 1:10

KJV

For while [they be] folden together [as] thorns, and while they are drunken [as] drunkards, they shall be devoured as stubble fully dry.

KJV (with Strong's)

For while they be folden together {H5440} as thorns {H5518}, and while they are drunken {H5433} as drunkards {H5435}, they shall be devoured {H398} as stubble {H7179} fully {H4392} dry {H3002}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For like men drunk with liquor, they will be burned up like tangled thorns, like straw completely dry.

Berean Standard Bible

For they will be entangled as with thorns and consumed like the drink of a drunkard— like stubble that is fully dry.

American Standard Version

For entangled like thorns, and drunken as with their drink, they are consumed utterly as dry stubble.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nahum 1:10 delivers a stark prophecy of Nineveh's complete and irreversible destruction, employing vivid metaphors to underscore the Assyrian capital's vulnerability despite its perceived strength. This verse serves as a powerful declaration of divine judgment against an oppressive empire, assuring the people of Judah that God's righteous wrath will swiftly consume those who persist in wickedness, rendering their unity and revelry utterly useless against His sovereign power.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nahum 1:10 is situated within the opening chapter of the Book of Nahum, a prophetic oracle directed exclusively against the city of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire. The preceding verses (Nahum 1:2-8) establish the character of God as a zealous, avenging, and powerful deity who is slow to anger but great in power, and who will by no means clear the guilty. This sets the stage for the specific pronouncements of judgment that follow. Verse 9 poses a rhetorical question, "What do ye imagine against the LORD?" implying that Nineveh's schemes are futile. Verse 10, therefore, provides the immediate answer: their imagined strength and unity will be utterly consumed by God's wrath, a direct consequence of their antagonism towards the Lord and His people. The imagery here transitions from God's overwhelming power to the specific, graphic nature of Nineveh's impending doom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecy of Nahum is believed to have been delivered in the late 7th century BC, likely after the Assyrian destruction of Thebes (No-amon) in 663 BC (referenced in [Nahum 3:8-10](/nahum/3-8-10 "Nahum 3:8-10 - The Fall of Thebes")) but before the fall of Nineveh in 612 BC. Assyria, with Nineveh as its formidable capital, was the dominant superpower of the ancient Near East, notorious for its brutal military campaigns, cruel treatment of conquered peoples, and aggressive expansionism. They had previously conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel and frequently oppressed the Southern Kingdom of Judah, demanding tribute and instilling terror. The cultural context of Nineveh was one of immense wealth, military might, and idolatry, often characterized by excessive revelry and a sense of invincibility. This verse directly challenges that self-assuredness, portraying their unity as a tangled mess of thorns and their celebrations as drunken stupor, both making them ripe for destruction.
* **Key Themes:** Nahum 1:10 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Divine Justice and Retribution**. God, as the righteous judge, will not allow unrepentant wickedness and oppression to go unpunished. Nineveh's long history of cruelty and pride has accumulated a debt that God is now prepared to collect, demonstrating that even the most formidable human empires are accountable to His moral law. Secondly, the verse highlights the **Vulnerability of Human Power before God's Sovereignty**. Despite Assyria's military might and political dominance, the metaphors of "thorns" and "drunkards" expose their inherent weakness and moral decay, emphasizing that no human strength or alliance can withstand the Lord's judgment. This echoes the broader biblical truth that "the Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples" as found in [Psalm 33:10](/psalms/33-10 "Psalm 33:10 - God's Sovereignty Over Nations"). Finally, the imagery of being "devoured as stubble fully dry" underscores the theme of **Swift and Complete Annihilation**. The destruction promised is not partial but total, irreversible, and easily accomplished by God, much like dry stubble is effortlessly consumed by fire. This imagery is consistent with other prophetic warnings of judgment, such as the day that "will burn like a furnace" and consume the wicked "like stubble" in [Malachi 4:1](/malachi/4-1 "Malachi 4:1 - The Day of the Lord").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **folden together (Hebrew, _çâbak'_):** From H5440, this root means "to entwine" or "to wrap." In this context, it suggests a dense, entangled mass, like a thicket of thorns. It can imply a unified, perhaps even formidable, arrangement, but one that is ultimately self-destructive or easily consumed. The imagery evokes a sense of being hopelessly intertwined, perhaps in their evil schemes or their sheer numbers, yet this very entanglement makes them more susceptible to being consumed.
* **drunken (Hebrew, _çâbâʼ'_):** From H5433, this verb signifies "to quaff to satiety" or "to become tipsy." It describes a state of intoxication, indicating a lack of sobriety, sound judgment, or awareness of impending danger. Applied to Nineveh, it portrays a society steeped in self-indulgence, moral stupor, and reckless abandon, blinding them to the divine judgment at their doorstep. Their revelry is not a sign of strength but of a fatal spiritual and moral decay.
* **devoured (Hebrew, _ʼâkal'_):** From H398, this primitive root means "to eat," but frequently carries the figurative sense of "to consume" or "to burn up." Here, it powerfully conveys the idea of complete destruction, an overwhelming consumption that leaves nothing behind. The passive voice ("they shall be devoured") emphasizes that the action is done *to* them by an external, irresistible force – God Himself.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For while [they be] folden together [as] thorns,"**: This clause introduces the first metaphor comparing the Assyrians to thorns. The phrase "folden together" suggests their unity, their dense numbers, or perhaps their intricate and thorny nature (harmful, irritating). Like a tangled thicket, they might seem impenetrable or difficult to approach, but thorns are also dry, combustible, and ultimately useless, fit only for burning. This highlights their inherent vulnerability and the ease with which they can be destroyed despite their collective strength.
* **"and while they are drunken [as] drunkards,"**: The second metaphor portrays the Assyrians as "drunken [as] drunkards." This imagery speaks to their moral dissipation, self-indulgence, and lack of spiritual discernment. Their revelry and arrogance have dulled their senses and blinded them to the impending judgment. This state of intoxication renders them unprepared and incapable of resisting the divine wrath, making them easy prey.
* **"they shall be devoured as stubble fully dry."**: This concluding clause delivers the devastating verdict and the ultimate outcome. The "thorns" and "drunkards" will be "devoured," consumed completely and without resistance. The comparison to "stubble fully dry" intensifies the imagery of swift, total, and effortless destruction. Stubble is the worthless residue after harvest, extremely flammable and offering no resistance to fire. This powerful simile emphasizes the utter worthlessness of Nineveh's power and its inevitable, fiery end at the hand of God.

#### Literary Devices
Nahum 1:10 is rich in **Imagery** and **Simile**, employing vivid comparisons to convey its message of impending doom. The Assyrians are likened to "thorns" and "drunkards," and their destruction is compared to "stubble fully dry." The **Simile** "as thorns" suggests their harmful, irritating nature and their tangled, dense numbers, while also foreshadowing their flammability. Similarly, "as drunkards" paints a picture of moral decay, self-indulgence, and a fatal lack of awareness, rendering them helpless. The most potent **Simile** is "devoured as stubble fully dry," which powerfully communicates the swiftness, completeness, and effortlessness of Nineveh's annihilation. The use of **Metaphor** is also evident in the underlying portrayal of Nineveh's power as something inherently weak and combustible. There is also an element of **Irony** present: Nineveh, a mighty empire that instilled fear and destroyed nations, is reduced to something as insignificant and easily consumed as dry stubble. This stark contrast highlights the absolute sovereignty of God over human might.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nahum 1:10 powerfully articulates the theological truth that God is sovereign over all nations and that His justice will ultimately prevail against all forms of wickedness and oppression. It underscores the principle that human power, no matter how formidable or seemingly unified, is ultimately fragile and fleeting before the omnipotence of the Lord. The destruction of Nineveh serves as a stark historical example of divine retribution, assuring God's people that He sees their suffering and will act on their behalf. This passage reminds us that God's patience has limits, and unrepentant sin, particularly that which involves cruelty and arrogance, will inevitably lead to devastating consequences. It is a testament to God's unwavering commitment to righteousness and His ultimate control over the course of human history.

* [Psalm 9:16](/psalms/9-16 "Psalm 9:16 - The Lord is known by the judgment he executes")
* [Isaiah 40:23](/isaiah/40-23 "Isaiah 40:23 - God brings princes to nothing")
* [Obadiah 1:15](/obadiah/1-15 "Obadiah 1:15 - The Day of the Lord is near for all nations")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nahum 1:10 offers profound insights for contemporary reflection and application. It serves as a potent reminder that God's justice is not an abstract concept but a living reality that will manifest in due time. For those who feel oppressed or witness rampant injustice in the world, this verse offers a deep wellspring of hope and assurance that God sees, God cares, and God will act. It encourages believers to trust in God's ultimate sovereignty, even when circumstances seem overwhelming and evil appears to triumph. Conversely, for those who might be tempted by pride, self-indulgence, or the abuse of power, this passage stands as a solemn warning: human strength, unity in wickedness, or fleeting pleasures are no match for divine judgment. It calls us to sober self-assessment, urging us to align our lives with God's righteous standards, to pursue justice, and to live with spiritual sobriety, recognizing that true security is found only in Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of "thorns" and "drunkards" challenge our modern perceptions of strength and vulnerability?**
* **In what ways might we, individually or collectively, be "drunken" or "folden together as thorns" in ways that blind us to spiritual realities or impending consequences?**
* **What comfort or warning does Nahum 1:10 offer to you personally regarding God's justice in the world today?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of Nineveh's destruction for believers today?**

Answer: The destruction of Nineveh, as prophesied in Nahum 1:10, holds profound significance for believers today. It serves as a powerful historical testament to God's unwavering justice and His ultimate sovereignty over all nations and empires. For those who suffer under oppression or witness widespread injustice, Nineveh's fall provides assurance that God sees and will ultimately bring retribution upon unrepentant wickedness. It reinforces the biblical truth that no human power, no matter how formidable, can ultimately defy the Lord. This narrative encourages believers to trust in God's perfect timing and righteous judgment, finding comfort in His control over history. Furthermore, it serves as a solemn warning against pride, cruelty, and moral decay, reminding all people that accountability before God is inevitable, as seen in passages like [Romans 2:5-6](/romans/2-5-6 "Romans 2:5-6 - God's Righteous Judgment").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Nahum 1:10 vividly portrays God's righteous judgment against Nineveh, its ultimate fulfillment and deeper theological significance are found in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The judgment against Nineveh, a city steeped in sin and rebellion, foreshadows the ultimate judgment that awaits all who reject God. However, Christ stands as the one who fulfills both the promise of judgment and the hope of salvation. He is the righteous judge who will one day return to "devour as stubble fully dry" all unrighteousness and those who persist in rebellion against God, as described in [2 Thessalonians 1:7-9](/2_thessalonians/1-7-9 "2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 - The Vengeance of the Lord Jesus"). Yet, for those who believe, Christ has already borne the full wrath and judgment of God on the cross, becoming the "stubble fully dry" in our place, consumed by divine fire so that we might not be. His sacrifice on Calvary is the ultimate demonstration of God's justice and His boundless love, offering an escape from the judgment prophesied in Nahum. Through faith in Him, believers are rescued from the wrath to come, finding refuge in the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), thus transforming the prophecy of destruction into a message of redemption for all who turn to Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Micah 7:4

The best of them [is] as a brier: the most upright [is sharper] than a thorn hedge: the day of thy watchmen [and] thy visitation cometh; now shall be their perplexity.

Isaiah 5:24

Therefore as the fire devoureth the stubble, and the flame consumeth the chaff, [so] their root shall be as rottenness, and their blossom shall go up as dust: because they have cast away the law of the LORD of hosts, and despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.

Malachi 4:1

¶ For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.

Isaiah 9:18

For wickedness burneth as the fire: it shall devour the briers and thorns, and shall kindle in the thickets of the forest, and they shall mount up [like] the lifting up of smoke.

Nahum 3:11

Thou also shalt be drunken: thou shalt be hid, thou also shalt seek strength because of the enemy.

2 Samuel 23:6

But [the sons] of Belial [shall be] all of them as thorns thrust away, because they cannot be taken with hands:

2 Samuel 23:7

But the man [that] shall touch them must be fenced with iron and the staff of a spear; and they shall be utterly burned with fire in the [same] place.