Nahum 1:12

KJV

Thus saith the LORD; Though [they be] quiet, and likewise many, yet thus shall they be cut down, when he shall pass through. Though I have afflicted thee, I will afflict thee no more.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068}; Though they be quiet {H8003}, and likewise many {H7227}, yet thus shall they be cut down {H1494}, when he shall pass through {H5674}. Though I have afflicted {H6031} thee, I will afflict {H6031} thee no more.

Complete Jewish Bible

Here is what ADONAI says: "Though they be many and strong, they will be cut down, they will pass; and though I have made you suffer, I will make you suffer no more.

Berean Standard Bible

This is what the LORD says: “Though they are allied and numerous, yet they will be cut down and pass away. Though I have afflicted you, O Judah, I will afflict you no longer.

American Standard Version

Thus saith Jehovah: Though they be in full strength, and likewise many, even so shall they be cut down, and he shall pass away. Though I have afflicted thee, I will afflict thee no more.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nahum 1:12 delivers a powerful dual prophecy from the Lord, declaring the imminent and complete destruction of the formidable Assyrian Empire, represented by its capital Nineveh, despite its perceived strength and vast numbers. Simultaneously, it offers a profound promise of comfort and cessation of affliction to Judah, God's covenant people, affirming His sovereign control over nations and His unwavering faithfulness to His chosen ones, even after a period of divine chastisement.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nahum 1:12 is strategically placed within the opening oracle of the book of Nahum (Nahum 1:2-15), which serves as a majestic and terrifying introduction to God's character and His impending judgment. The chapter begins by establishing Yahweh as a jealous and avenging God, slow to anger but great in power, who will by no means leave the guilty unpunished. Verses 2-8 describe God's formidable power and wrath against His adversaries, using vivid imagery of storms and desolation. Verses 9-11 then specifically address Nineveh, declaring its utter destruction. Verse 12 marks a pivotal transition, explicitly contrasting the fate of Nineveh ("they") with the comforting promise given to Judah ("thee"), setting the stage for the detailed prophecies of Nineveh's downfall in chapters 2 and 3, while simultaneously offering a beacon of hope to the oppressed.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Nahum is a prophetic oracle primarily directed against Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire, a dominant and notoriously brutal power in the ancient Near East during the 8th and 7th centuries BC. Assyria had a long history of military aggression, having conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel in 722 BC and severely afflicted the Southern Kingdom of Judah, notably during Sennacherib's campaign in 701 BC. The Assyrians were infamous for their cruelty, deportation policies, and widespread terror. Nahum's prophecy is generally dated to the late 7th century BC, after the Assyrian sack 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 itself in 612 BC. At this time, Assyria, though still powerful, was beginning to decline, and Judah would have been living under its oppressive shadow, longing for deliverance. The phrase "quiet, and likewise many" likely refers to Nineveh's perceived security and vast military might, which God declares will be utterly undone.
* **Key Themes:** Nahum 1:12 contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes prevalent in the book and broader prophetic literature. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Justice**, demonstrating God's absolute control over the rise and fall of nations. No empire, however mighty or secure, can escape God's ultimate judgment for its wickedness and oppression, a truth echoed in [Jeremiah 25:12](/jeremiah/25-12 "Jeremiah 25:12 - God's Judgment on Babylon"). Secondly, the verse highlights **God's Covenant Faithfulness and Compassion for His People**. Despite Judah's past afflictions, which often served as divine chastisement, God promises an end to their suffering, revealing His deep care and commitment to their restoration. This promise of comfort and deliverance resonates with the themes found in [Isaiah 40:1-2](/isaiah/40-1-2 "Isaiah 40:1-2 - Comfort for Jerusalem") and [Lamentations 3:31-33](/lamentations/3-31-33 "Lamentations 3:31-33 - God's Compassion Endures"). Lastly, the verse implicitly points to the broader prophetic theme of **The Day of the Lord**, where God decisively intervenes in human history to execute judgment on His enemies and bring salvation to His people, as seen throughout the prophetic books, for instance, in [Joel 2:1-2](/joel/2-1-2 "Joel 2:1-2 - The Day of the Lord").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **quiet (Hebrew, _shâlêm'_):** From H8003, meaning "complete (literally or figuratively); especially friendly; full, just, made ready, peaceable, perfect(-ed), quiet, Shalem (by mistake for a name), whole." In this context, "quiet" implies a state of perceived security, completeness, or undisturbed peace. Assyria, represented by Nineveh, felt unassailable, confident in its power and numerous forces, believing itself to be at peace from any threat.
* **cut down (Hebrew, _gazâz'_):** From H1494, a primitive root meaning "to cut off; specifically to shear a flock or shave the hair; figuratively to destroy an enemy; cut off (down), poll, shave, (sheep-) shear(-er)." This vivid verb suggests a swift, decisive, and thorough removal or destruction, much like shearing wool from a sheep or mowing down grass. It conveys the idea of an abrupt and complete end.
* **pass through (Hebrew, _ʻâbar'_):** From H5674, a primitive root meaning "to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in copulation); alienate, alter, [idiom] at all, beyond, bring (over, through), carry over, (over-) come (on, over), conduct (over), convey over, current, deliver, do away, enter, escape, fail, gender, get over, (make) go (away, beyond, by, forth, his way, in, on, over, through), have away (more), lay, meddle, overrun, make partition, (cause to, give, make to, over) pass(-age, along, away, beyond, by, -enger, on, out, over, through), (cause to, make) [phrase] proclaim(-amation), perish, provoke to anger, put away, rage, [phrase] raiser of taxes, remove, send over, set apart, [phrase] shave, cause to (make) sound, [idiom] speedily, [idiom] sweet smelling, take (away), (make to) transgress(-or), translate, turn away, (way-) faring man, be wrath." Here, it signifies an irresistible, decisive movement, often associated with divine judgment or intervention, as God or His agent moves through to execute a decreed action.
* **afflicted (Hebrew, _ʻânâh'_):** From H6031, a primitive root meaning "to depress literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive (in various applications, as follows); abase self, afflict(-ion, self), answer (by mistake for עָנָה), chasten self, deal hardly with, defile, exercise, force, gentleness, humble (self), hurt, ravish, sing (by mistake for עָנָה), speak (by mistake for עָנָה), submit self, weaken, [idiom] in any wise." This word encompasses the idea of humbling, oppressing, or causing suffering, indicating that Judah's past trials were part of God's sovereign allowance or direct discipline.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thus saith the LORD;":** This opening phrase, derived from H559 (ʼâmar, "to say") and H3068 (Yᵉhôvâh, "the LORD"), serves as a formal prophetic formula, asserting the divine origin and absolute authority of the message that follows. It underscores that these are not merely human words but a direct, unchallengeable declaration from the sovereign God of Israel.
* **"Though [they be] quiet, and likewise many, yet thus shall they be cut down, when he shall pass through.":** This clause addresses the Assyrian Empire, specifically Nineveh. "Quiet" (shâlêm) describes their state of perceived security and undisturbed peace, while "many" (rab) refers to their vast population and formidable military strength. Despite this apparent invincibility, the Lord declares their certain and sudden downfall. "Cut down" (gazâz) vividly portrays their swift and complete destruction, akin to shearing or mowing. The phrase "when he shall pass through" (ʻâbar) indicates that this judgment will be executed by an irresistible force, either God Himself or an agent empowered by Him, bringing about a decisive end.
* **"Though I have afflicted thee, I will afflict thee no more.":** This second clause shifts focus to Judah, God's covenant people. The Lord acknowledges that He has permitted or directly caused their past suffering ("afflicted thee," ʻânâh), often through the hands of oppressors like Assyria, as a form of discipline or testing. However, the divine promise is clear and comforting: this specific period of intense affliction will cease. This declaration signifies God's faithfulness to His covenant, promising an end to their trials and a future of relief and restoration.

#### Literary Devices
Nahum 1:12 is rich in literary artistry, effectively conveying its dual message of judgment and comfort. The most prominent device is **Contrast**, as the verse sharply juxtaposes the fate of the oppressor (Assyria) with that of the oppressed (Judah). Assyria, though "quiet, and likewise many," faces utter destruction, while Judah, though "afflicted," is promised an end to suffering. This creates a powerful dramatic effect, highlighting God's justice and mercy. The phrase "cut down" employs a **Metaphor** (or perhaps a **Simile**), drawing on agricultural or pastoral imagery (shearing sheep, cutting grass) to describe the swift, decisive, and complete eradication of Nineveh, stripping it of its power and existence. The entire verse functions as a **Divine Pronouncement**, introduced by the authoritative "Thus saith the LORD," which imbues the prophecy with undeniable weight and certainty. Furthermore, the **Repetition** of the verb "afflict" ("Though I have afflicted thee, I will afflict thee no more") serves to emphasize God's sovereign hand in Judah's past trials and His compassionate, definitive promise for their future, creating a sense of closure and assurance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nahum 1:12 profoundly illustrates God's active involvement in human history, asserting His ultimate sovereignty over all nations and His unwavering commitment to justice and covenant faithfulness. It reveals that no earthly power, however mighty or secure, can escape the righteous judgment of the Lord when it acts in defiance of His will and oppresses His people. This divine justice provides immense hope for the downtrodden, assuring them that their suffering is seen and that their oppressors will not prevail indefinitely. Simultaneously, the promise of "no more affliction" underscores God's deep compassion and His redemptive purpose for His chosen ones, demonstrating that even divine discipline is temporary and ultimately leads to restoration and peace for those who belong to Him. This dual message reinforces the biblical truth that God is both a consuming fire to His enemies and a loving Father to His children, orchestrating all events to fulfill His eternal purposes.

* [Psalm 37:10-11](/psalms/37-10-11 "Psalm 37:10-11 - The End of the Wicked and the Inheritance of the Meek")
* [Isaiah 10:24-27](/isaiah/10-24-27 "Isaiah 10:24-27 - God's Deliverance from Assyria")
* [Lamentations 3:31-33](/lamentations/3-31-33 "Lamentations 3:31-33 - God's Compassion Endures")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nahum 1:12 offers timeless truths that resonate deeply with believers today. In a world often marked by injustice, oppression, and suffering, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's absolute sovereignty and His commitment to righteous judgment. For those who feel overwhelmed by powerful systems or individuals, it provides immense comfort, assuring us that no oppressor is too strong for God to "cut down" and that every injustice will ultimately be addressed by His perfect hand. This should instill patience and trust, encouraging us not to take vengeance into our own hands but to wait for the Lord's timing. Conversely, for those who may be in positions of power, it serves as a sobering warning: accountability before God is inevitable, and pride or reliance on one's own strength will ultimately lead to a fall. Moreover, the promise to Judah—"Though I have afflicted thee, I will afflict thee no more"—speaks directly to the trials and tribulations believers face. It reminds us that God is intimately aware of our suffering, that He often uses difficult seasons for our refinement, and that He promises an end to our deepest afflictions, offering hope, healing, and ultimate peace. This encourages resilience in hardship, knowing that our present sufferings are temporary and that God's faithful love will ultimately prevail, leading us to a place of lasting rest in Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's promise of justice against oppressors encourage you in the face of current injustices in the world?**
* **In what ways might God be "afflicting" you (allowing hardship or discipline) for your good, and how does the promise of "no more affliction" shape your perspective on enduring trials?**
* **What does this verse teach us about the importance of humility and trusting in God's ultimate plan, rather than relying on our own perceived strength or security?**

### FAQ

**Who are "they" and "thee" in this verse?**

Answer: In Nahum 1:12, the pronoun "they" refers to the Assyrians, specifically the inhabitants and military of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire. The pronoun "thee" refers to Judah, the Southern Kingdom, which represents God's covenant people who had suffered greatly under Assyrian oppression and divine chastisement. The verse highlights a stark contrast between the fate of the oppressor and the deliverance of the oppressed.

**How does God "afflict" His people, and why?**

Answer: God's "affliction" of His people, as mentioned in this verse, can take various forms and serve multiple purposes. It can involve allowing external enemies, like Assyria, to oppress them, often as a consequence of their disobedience or idolatry, serving as a form of divine discipline (e.g., [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses")). This affliction is not arbitrary but is intended to humble His people, to refine their faith, to call them back to repentance, and to draw them into deeper reliance on Him (e.g., [Hebrews 12:5-11](/hebrews/12-5-11 "Hebrews 12:5-11 - God's Discipline and Love")). It is a demonstration of His fatherly love, aiming for their ultimate good and spiritual growth, rather than their destruction.

**When was this prophecy fulfilled?**

Answer: The prophecy against Nineveh, including the declaration that "they shall be cut down," was dramatically fulfilled in 612 BC. At that time, a coalition of Babylonian and Median forces besieged and utterly destroyed Nineveh, bringing an end to the mighty Assyrian Empire. This historical event brought significant relief and an end to the direct oppression that Judah had experienced from Assyria, aligning perfectly with Nahum's prophetic declaration of "I will afflict thee no more."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nahum 1:12, while rooted in a specific historical context, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "passing through" of the Lord, bringing decisive judgment upon the oppressor and deliverance to the afflicted, foreshadows Christ's redemptive mission. Jesus is the ultimate agent through whom God's judgment is executed upon the spiritual oppressors of humanity—sin, death, and the devil. Through His crucifixion, Christ "cut down" the power of these enemies, disarming the spiritual forces that held humanity captive, as [Colossians 2:13-15](/colossians/2-13-15 "Colossians 2:13-15 - Triumph Over Principalities") powerfully declares. Moreover, the promise to Judah, "Though I have afflicted thee, I will afflict thee no more," points to the eternal peace and cessation of suffering that Christ secures for all who believe in Him. He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bearing the ultimate affliction so that His people might experience eternal deliverance. In Christ, believers are promised a future where all tears are wiped away, and there will be no more death, sorrow, crying, or pain, as revealed in [Revelation 21:4](/rev/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears"). Thus, Nahum's prophecy, with its dual message of divine judgment and comforting restoration, finds its glorious and complete realization in the triumphant work of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

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

Joel 2:19

Yea, the LORD will answer and say unto his people, Behold, I will send you corn, and wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith: and I will no more make you a reproach among the heathen:

Isaiah 10:32

As yet shall he remain at Nob that day: he shall shake his hand [against] the mount of the daughter of Zion, the hill of Jerusalem.

Isaiah 10:34

And he shall cut down the thickets of the forest with iron, and Lebanon shall fall by a mighty one.

Isaiah 31:8

Then shall the Assyrian fall with the sword, not of a mighty man; and the sword, not of a mean man, shall devour him: but he shall flee from the sword, and his young men shall be discomfited.

Isaiah 8:8

And he shall pass through Judah; he shall overflow and go over, he shall reach [even] to the neck; and the stretching out of his wings shall fill the breadth of thy land, O Immanuel.

Isaiah 7:20

In the same day shall the Lord shave with a razor that is hired, [namely], by them beyond the river, by the king of Assyria, the head, and the hair of the feet: and it shall also consume the beard.

Nahum 1:15

Behold upon the mountains the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace! O Judah, keep thy solemn feasts, perform thy vows: for the wicked shall no more pass through thee; he is utterly cut off.