Nahum 1:2

KJV

¶ God [is] jealous, and the LORD revengeth; the LORD revengeth, and [is] furious; the LORD will take vengeance on his adversaries, and he reserveth [wrath] for his enemies.

KJV (with Strong's)

God {H410} is jealous {H7072}, and the LORD {H3068} revengeth {H5358}; the LORD {H3068} revengeth {H5358}, and is furious {H1167}{H2534}; the LORD {H3068} will take vengeance {H5358} on his adversaries {H6862}, and he reserveth {H5201} wrath for his enemies {H341}.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI is a jealous and vengeful God. ADONAI avenges; he knows how to be angry. ADONAI takes vengeance on his foes and stores up wrath for his enemies.

Berean Standard Bible

The LORD is a jealous and avenging God; the LORD is avenging and full of wrath. The LORD takes vengeance on His foes and reserves wrath for His enemies.

American Standard Version

Jehovah is a jealous God and avengeth; Jehovah avengeth and is full of wrath; Jehovah taketh vengeance on his adversaries, and he reserveth wrath for his enemies.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nahum 1:2 opens the prophetic book with a profound declaration of God's inherent character, establishing the theological framework for the impending judgment upon Nineveh. This verse portrays the Lord as a passionately zealous God who is righteous in His vengeance, demonstrating His absolute sovereignty, His intolerance of wickedness, and His unwavering commitment to execute justice against those who oppose His holy will. It sets a tone of divine authority and certain retribution for persistent rebellion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nahum 1:2 is the initial theological statement following the book's superscription in [Nahum 1:1](/nahum/1-1 "Nahum 1:1 - Superscription of the Book of Nahum"). It immediately precedes a powerful acrostic psalm (sometimes considered to extend through [Nahum 1:8](/nahum/1-8 "Nahum 1:8 - God's Judgment Against His Enemies")) that elaborates on the Lord's majesty, power, and righteous indignation. This opening declaration of God's nature is not merely descriptive but prescriptive, serving as the immutable foundation for the subsequent prophecies of Nineveh's complete destruction. It grounds the specific historical judgment in the eternal attributes of God, ensuring that the coming wrath is understood as a just and necessary expression of His character, not an arbitrary act. The repetition of "the LORD revengeth" emphasizes the certainty and divine origin of the impending doom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Nahum is primarily an oracle against Nineveh, the capital of the formidable Neo-Assyrian Empire, which was the dominant superpower of the ancient Near East during the 7th century BC. Assyria was notorious for its brutal military campaigns, its cruel treatment of conquered peoples, and its idolatry. While the city had previously repented under the preaching of Jonah (as recorded in [Jonah 3](/jonah/3 "Jonah 3 - Nineveh's Repentance")), by Nahum's time (likely between 663 and 612 BC, after the fall of Thebes and before Nineveh's fall), Nineveh had reverted to its oppressive and wicked ways. The people of Judah, who had suffered greatly under Assyrian domination (e.g., [2 Kings 18:13-16](/2_kings/18-13-16 "2 Kings 18:13-16 - Sennacherib's Invasion of Judah")), would have found immense comfort and hope in this prophecy of divine retribution against their oppressor. Culturally, the concept of a deity exacting vengeance was common in the ancient world, but Nahum distinguishes Yahweh's vengeance as a righteous, holy, and just act, unlike the capricious wrath of pagan gods.
* **Key Themes:** Nahum 1:2 introduces several critical themes that permeate the book and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **God's passionate jealousy** (Hebrew: _qannôwʼ_), which is not human envy but His zealous commitment to His own honor, His covenant, and His people. This divine jealousy signifies His intolerance for idolatry and injustice, and His fierce protection of what is rightfully His, as seen in the covenant warnings of [Exodus 34:14](/exodus/34-14 "Exodus 34:14 - God's Jealousy for His Name"). Secondly, the verse underscores **Divine Vengeance and Wrath**, repeatedly stating "the LORD revengeth." This is not personal spite but a righteous, judicial response to persistent rebellion and wickedness, a demonstration of God's ultimate authority and justice over all nations, echoing the principles found in [Deuteronomy 32:35](/deuteronomy/32-35 "Deuteronomy 32:35 - Vengeance is Mine, I will Repay"). Finally, the verse establishes **God's Sovereignty and Retribution**, affirming His absolute control over human history and His unwavering commitment to hold His adversaries accountable. He "reserveth wrath for his enemies," indicating that His judgment is deliberate, just, and inevitable for those who continually defy Him.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **God (Hebrew, _ʼêl'_):** This term (H410) is shortened from _ʼayil_ and signifies "strength" or "mighty." It is often used to refer to the Almighty, but can also denote any deity. In this context, _ʼêl_ emphasizes the inherent power and might of the God of Israel, underscoring His capacity to execute the vengeance described. It is a foundational descriptor of His divine essence.
* **jealous (Hebrew, _qannôwʼ'_):** This word (H7072) is derived from _qanna_ and denotes a state of being "jealous or angry." In the biblical context, when applied to God, it does not imply human insecurity or envy. Instead, it speaks to His absolute devotion to His own glory, His covenant integrity, and His people. It signifies His passionate zeal for exclusive worship and His intolerance of anything that would defile His holiness or usurp His rightful place. God's jealousy is a holy attribute, a fierce commitment to protect what is rightfully His and to uphold His righteous standards.
* **revengeth (Hebrew, _nâqam'_):** A primitive root (H5358), _nâqam_ means "to grudge, i.e. avenge or punish." This term refers to judicial retribution rather than personal, vindictive revenge. It implies a just and deserved punishment for wrongdoing, ensuring that divine justice is served. The repetition of this verb in the verse ("the LORD revengeth; the LORD revengeth; the LORD will take vengeance") powerfully emphasizes the certainty and deliberateness of God's punitive action.
* **furious (Hebrew, _baʻal chêmâh'_):** This phrase combines _baʻal_ (H1167), meaning "master" or "owner," with _chêmâh_ (H2534), meaning "heat," "anger," or "wrath." Thus, "furious" literally translates to "master of wrath" or "possessor of wrath." This vivid imagery portrays God as one who not only experiences wrath but fully controls and wields it as an attribute of His being. It underscores the intensity, deliberateness, and righteous nature of His anger against sin and rebellion, indicating that His fury is not an uncontrolled outburst but a measured, powerful expression of His holy character.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"God is jealous,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes a core attribute of the Lord. His "jealousy" is a divine zeal for His exclusive worship and His covenant fidelity. It means He will not tolerate rivals, idolatry, or any affront to His holiness and honor. This attribute is foundational to understanding His subsequent actions.
* **"and the LORD revengeth;"**: This introduces the theme of divine retribution. The use of "LORD" (Yahweh, the covenant name of God, H3068) links this act of vengeance directly to His covenant character and His promise to uphold justice. It emphasizes that His vengeance is not arbitrary but a righteous response to sin and injustice.
* **"the LORD revengeth, and is furious;"**: The repetition of "the LORD revengeth" underscores the certainty and deliberateness of His action. The addition of "and is furious" (literally "master of wrath") intensifies the description, revealing that His vengeance is accompanied by a powerful, righteous indignation. This "fury" is not uncontrolled rage but a holy, determined opposition to evil.
* **"the LORD will take vengeance on his adversaries,"**: This clause specifies the recipients of God's vengeance: "his adversaries" (Hebrew: _tsar_, H6862, meaning "opponent" or "enemy"). This confirms that God's wrath is directed specifically against those who set themselves in opposition to Him and His righteous rule, such as the Assyrians who oppressed His people.
* **"and he reserveth wrath for his enemies."**: This concluding phrase highlights God's deliberate and sovereign control over His judgment. He "reserveth" (Hebrew: _nâṭar_, H5201, meaning "to guard" or "to cherish [anger]") wrath, implying that His judgment is not impulsive but is stored up and will be unleashed at the appointed time. This emphasizes the certainty and inevitability of His just retribution against "his enemies" (Hebrew: _ʼôyêb_, H341, meaning "hating" or "adversary").

#### Literary Devices
Nahum 1:2 is rich in literary devices that amplify its powerful message. The most prominent is **Repetition**, specifically of the phrase "the LORD revengeth." This triple reiteration ("the LORD revengeth; the LORD revengeth; the LORD will take vengeance") serves to underscore the absolute certainty, deliberateness, and inevitability of God's judgment. It creates a rhythmic, almost relentless, declaration that leaves no doubt about His intent. Another significant device is **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human-like qualities to God, such as being "jealous" and "furious." While these terms reflect divine attributes, they are expressed in human language to help us grasp the intensity of God's character and His passionate commitment to justice. Furthermore, the verse employs **Parallelism**, particularly in the second half, where "his adversaries" and "his enemies" function as synonymous parallels, reinforcing the target of God's wrath. The phrase "master of wrath" (translated as "furious") is a vivid **Metaphor** or **Idiom**, portraying God as having complete command and ownership over His righteous indignation, rather than being overcome by it. These devices combine to create a forceful and unforgettable opening statement about the nature of the God who is about to bring judgment upon Nineveh.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nahum 1:2 serves as a foundational theological statement, asserting God's active involvement in human history, not as a passive observer, but as a righteous judge. The concept of God's "jealousy" is intrinsically linked to His holiness and covenant faithfulness, signifying His demand for exclusive worship and His fervent protection of His people and His name. His "vengeance" is not vindictive but a necessary expression of His justice against persistent evil and rebellion. This divine attribute ensures that ultimately, all wrongdoing will be addressed, and righteousness will prevail. The verse thus provides both a solemn warning to those who defy God and a profound comfort to His people, assuring them that their suffering under oppressors is seen and will be avenged by a sovereign, just God. It paints a picture of a God who is both loving and just, whose patience has limits, and whose character demands that evil be punished.

* [Exodus 34:14](/exodus/34-14 "God is a Jealous God")
* [Deuteronomy 32:35](/deuteronomy/32-35 "Vengeance and Recompense Belong to God")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Do Not Avenge Yourselves")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nahum 1:2 presents a powerful and often challenging aspect of God's character: His righteous wrath and vengeance. For those who live in defiance of God, this verse serves as a stark and inescapable warning. It reminds us that God's patience is not infinite, and His justice will ultimately prevail. There is a time when His stored-up wrath will be unleashed upon those who persistently oppose His will and inflict evil upon others. This should prompt a deep humility and a turning away from sin, recognizing the seriousness of offending a holy God. For believers, however, this verse offers immense comfort and assurance. In a world often marked by injustice, oppression, and unpunished evil, Nahum 1:2 declares that God sees, God cares, and God will act. He is zealous for His people and His honor, and He will ultimately bring about perfect justice. This truth encourages us to trust in His sovereignty, to persevere in faith, and to find solace in the knowledge that our God is actively involved in upholding moral order and will triumph over all evil. It calls us to live in reverent awe of His holiness and to align our lives with His righteous standards, knowing that His character demands both love and justice.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's "jealousy" as a holy zeal, rather than human envy, deepen your appreciation for His character?**
* **In what ways does the concept of God's righteous vengeance offer comfort or challenge to your own understanding of justice in the world?**
* **How should the truth that God "reserveth wrath for his enemies" impact the way you live and interact with a world that often seems to disregard divine authority?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live in a way that honors God's holiness and avoids being counted among His "adversaries" or "enemies"?**

### FAQ

**Does God's "jealousy" mean He is insecure or envious like humans?**

Answer: No, God's "jealousy" (Hebrew: _qannôwʼ_) is fundamentally different from human envy or insecurity. In humans, jealousy often stems from a lack of self-worth or a desire for what someone else possesses. God's jealousy, however, is a holy attribute rooted in His perfect character and His absolute claim to exclusive worship and devotion. It signifies His passionate zeal for His own glory, His covenant integrity, and His people. It means He will not tolerate idolatry, spiritual infidelity, or any rival to His supreme authority. It is an expression of His love and faithfulness, as He protects His relationship with His people and upholds His righteous standards. For example, [Exodus 20:5](/exodus/20-5 "Exodus 20:5 - The Second Commandment") states, "for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God," in the context of forbidding idolatry, emphasizing His demand for singular devotion.

**How does God's vengeance reconcile with His love and mercy?**

Answer: God's vengeance, as described in Nahum 1:2 and elsewhere, is not an act of arbitrary malice but a necessary expression of His perfect justice and holiness. It is directed against persistent wickedness, rebellion, and oppression, particularly when His warnings and patience have been exhausted. His vengeance is always righteous, serving to uphold His moral order, vindicate His name, and ultimately bring about justice for those who have been wronged. While God is indeed "merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth" ([Exodus 34:6](/exodus/34-6 "Exodus 34:6 - The Lord's Declaration of His Name")), His mercy does not negate His justice. In fact, His love for righteousness demands that evil be confronted and punished. The Bible consistently portrays God as both loving and just, and His wrath is often a "last resort" after extensive patience and opportunities for repentance have been rejected. Ultimately, His judgment purifies and restores, leading to a new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells ([2 Peter 3:13](/2_peter/3-13 "2 Peter 3:13 - New Heavens and New Earth")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nahum 1:2, with its powerful declaration of God's jealous vengeance and furious wrath against His adversaries, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament prophets foretold God's judgment against nations like Nineveh, the New Testament reveals that the full weight of God's holy wrath against all sin was poured out upon His own Son on the cross. Christ, the innocent Lamb of God, became the recipient of the divine vengeance that humanity deserved, as He "bore our sins in his own body on the tree" ([1 Peter 2:24](/1_peter/2-24 "1 Peter 2:24 - Christ Bore Our Sins")). This act of substitutionary atonement demonstrates both the terrifying reality of God's wrath and the immeasurable depth of His love. Furthermore, Christ is not only the one who absorbed God's wrath but also the one through whom God's righteous judgment will ultimately be executed. He is appointed by the Father as the final judge of all humanity ([John 5:22](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Judges No One, But Has Given All Judgment to the Son")). Thus, the "wrath... reserved for his enemies" in Nahum 1:2 will be fully administered by Christ at His second coming, when He will judge the living and the dead ([2 Timothy 4:1](/2_timothy/4-1 "2 Timothy 4:1 - Christ Will Judge the Living and the Dead")) and usher in a new era of perfect justice and righteousness. In Christ, God's jealousy for His glory is perfectly satisfied, and His vengeance is both accomplished and ultimately displayed.

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

Exodus 20:5

Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God [am] a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth [generation] of them that hate me;

Zechariah 8:2

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; I was jealous for Zion with great jealousy, and I was jealous for her with great fury.

Exodus 34:14

For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name [is] Jealous, [is] a jealous God:

Psalms 94:1

¶ O LORD God, to whom vengeance belongeth; O God, to whom vengeance belongeth, shew thyself.

Joshua 24:19

And Joshua said unto the people, Ye cannot serve the LORD: for he [is] an holy God; he [is] a jealous God; he will not forgive your transgressions nor your sins.

Deuteronomy 4:24

For the LORD thy God [is] a consuming fire, [even] a jealous God.

Hebrews 10:30

For we know him that hath said, Vengeance [belongeth] unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.