Nahum 1:3

KJV

The LORD [is] slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit [the wicked]: the LORD hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds [are] the dust of his feet.

KJV (with Strong's)

The LORD {H3068} is slow {H750} to anger {H639}, and great {H1419} in power {H3581}, and will not at all {H5352} acquit {H5352} the wicked: the LORD {H3068} hath his way {H1870} in the whirlwind {H5492} and in the storm {H8183}, and the clouds {H6051} are the dust {H80} of his feet {H7272}.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI is slow to anger, but great in power; and he does not leave the guilty unpunished. ADONAI's path is in the whirlwind and storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.

Berean Standard Bible

The LORD is slow to anger and great in power; the LORD will by no means leave the guilty unpunished. His path is in the whirlwind and storm, and clouds are the dust beneath His feet.

American Standard Version

Jehovah is slow to anger, and great in power, and will by no means clear the guilty: Jehovah hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nahum 1:3 presents a profound declaration of God's multifaceted character, revealing His patient forbearance alongside His absolute power and unwavering commitment to justice. It asserts that while the LORD is slow to anger, His omnipotence ensures that He will never leave the wicked unpunished, demonstrating His sovereign control over all creation, even the most chaotic elements, to execute His divine will.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nahum 1:3 is an integral part of the introductory acrostic poem (Nahum 1:2-8) that sets the stage for the entire prophetic book. This opening section functions as a theological preamble, establishing the character of the God who is about to pronounce and execute judgment upon Nineveh, the capital of Assyria. The verse immediately follows a declaration of God's jealous and avenging nature, providing a necessary balance by emphasizing His patience before His inevitable wrath. It transitions from a general statement of divine attributes to a vivid portrayal of God's majestic power over nature, preparing the reader for the devastating judgment that will unfold against Nineveh in subsequent chapters.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Nahum is dated to the mid-seventh century BC, likely after the Assyrian destruction of Thebes (Nahum 3:8-10) in 663 BC, but before the fall of Nineveh in 612 BC. Nineveh was the formidable capital of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, known for its brutal military campaigns, idolatry, and oppression of other nations, including Judah. While God had previously spared Nineveh through the prophet Jonah's preaching (approximately 150 years prior), their repentance was temporary, and they reverted to their violent ways. Nahum's prophecy, therefore, speaks into a context where Assyria was at the height of its power, yet God declares their impending downfall, demonstrating His sovereignty over even the most dominant world empires. The imagery of storms and whirlwinds resonates with ancient Near Eastern perceptions of divine power, often associated with storm gods, but here it is explicitly attributed to Yahweh, the God of Israel, asserting His unique and supreme authority.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Nahum and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the **Divine Attributes** of God, particularly His patience ("slow to anger") and His justice ("will not at all acquit the wicked"). This dual nature is a consistent biblical theme, seen in passages like [Exodus 34:6-7](/exodus/34-6-7 "Exodus 34:6-7 - The LORD's Character Declared") and [Psalm 103:8](/psalms/103-8 "Psalm 103:8 - God's Mercy and Compassion"). Secondly, it underscores God's **Omnipotence and Sovereignty**, depicting Him as having absolute control over the most powerful natural phenomena. The imagery of the whirlwind and storm as His "way" and clouds as "the dust of his feet" emphasizes His supreme authority over creation, which He employs to execute His righteous judgments. This theme of God's control over nature as a demonstration of His power and judgment is also evident in [Job 38:1](/job/38-1 "Job 38:1 - God Speaks from the Whirlwind") and [Psalm 29](/psalms/29 "Psalm 29 - The Voice of the LORD"). Finally, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **Divine Retribution**, establishing the theological basis for Nineveh's destruction: God's justice demands accountability for wickedness, and His patience has a limit.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Anger (Hebrew, _ʼaph'_):** From H639. Properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire. In the phrase "slow to anger" (literally "long of nostrils"), it signifies the capacity for wrath, which God restrains due to His patience. This idiom emphasizes God's forbearance, indicating that He does not quickly or impulsively unleash His righteous indignation, allowing time for repentance.
* **Power (Hebrew, _kôach'_):** From H3581. Vigor, literally (force, in a good or a bad sense) or figuratively (capacity, means, produce). This word denotes God's inherent strength, might, and ability to effect His will. When stated that the LORD is "great in power," it underscores His omnipotence, His limitless capacity to act and to control all things, including the forces of nature and the destinies of nations.
* **Acquit (Hebrew, _nâqâh'_):** From H5352. A primitive root meaning to be (or make) clean (literally or figuratively); by implication (in an adverse sense) to be bare, i.e., extirpated; to be blameless, clear, guiltless, or unpunished. The strong negation "will not at all acquit" (a Hebrew infinitive absolute construction for emphasis) powerfully asserts that God will never declare the guilty innocent or allow their transgressions to go unpunished. This highlights His absolute righteousness and justice, which demands accountability for sin.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The LORD [is] slow to anger":** This foundational statement reveals God's patient and forbearing nature. Despite humanity's sin and rebellion, God does not immediately unleash His wrath. This "slowness" is not weakness or indifference, but a deliberate act of grace, providing opportunity for repentance and demonstrating His mercy.
* **"and great in power":** This clause immediately balances the previous one, asserting God's omnipotence. His patience is not due to a lack of power, but rather a deliberate choice. He possesses infinite strength and ability to execute His will, whether in judgment or salvation, emphasizing His absolute sovereignty over all creation.
* **"and will not at all acquit [the wicked]:"** This emphatic declaration underscores God's unwavering justice. While He is patient, His justice is absolute and uncompromised. Sin will not go unpunished; there is no ultimate impunity for those who persist in wickedness. This sets the stage for the coming judgment on Nineveh, confirming that God's character demands accountability.
* **"the LORD hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm":** This vivid imagery illustrates God's sovereign control over the most powerful and chaotic elements of nature. The "whirlwind" and "storm" are not random occurrences but are instruments through which God moves and executes His purposes. This demonstrates His majestic power and His ability to harness even destructive forces to achieve His divine will, particularly in judgment.
* **"and the clouds [are] the dust of his feet."** This powerful **anthropomorphism** further emphasizes God's immense scale and effortless control. Just as dust is insignificant and easily stirred by a person's feet, so too are the vast and imposing clouds mere "dust" to the Almighty God. This imagery conveys His supreme majesty and the ease with which He commands the heavens, reinforcing His absolute sovereignty and the inevitability of His actions.

#### Literary Devices
Nahum 1:3 is rich in literary devices that enhance its theological impact. **Anthropomorphism** is prominently featured, particularly in the phrase "the clouds [are] the dust of his feet," which attributes human-like physical characteristics (feet, dust) to God to convey His immense power and effortless control over creation. This vivid **Imagery** of whirlwinds, storms, clouds, and dust evokes a sense of awe and overwhelming power, painting a picture of a God who is utterly transcendent and majestic, capable of commanding the most formidable natural forces. The verse also employs **Juxtaposition** by placing God's "slowness to anger" directly alongside His declaration that He "will not at all acquit the wicked," highlighting the tension and balance between His mercy and His justice. This creates a powerful and comprehensive portrayal of His character, emphasizing that His patience is not an absence of justice, but a deliberate delay before its certain execution.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nahum 1:3 provides a foundational theological statement about God's character, balancing His infinite patience with His unwavering justice and supreme power. This portrayal resonates throughout Scripture, affirming that God's mercy is profound, yet His righteousness demands that sin be addressed. His control over creation, even its most chaotic elements, underscores His absolute sovereignty, ensuring that His purposes, whether in salvation or judgment, will always prevail. This verse serves as a reminder that while God's grace offers opportunity for repentance, His justice is not to be trifled with, and accountability for wickedness is certain.

* [Exodus 34:6-7](/exodus/34-6-7 "Exodus 34:6-7 - The LORD, a compassionate and gracious God")
* [Psalm 103:8](/psalms/103-8 "Psalm 103:8 - The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger")
* [Romans 2:5-6](/romans/2-5-6 "Romans 2:5-6 - God's righteous judgment and recompense")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nahum 1:3 offers profound insights for personal reflection and application. For those who acknowledge their sin and seek God's mercy, the declaration that the LORD is "slow to anger" is a source of immense comfort and hope. It assures us that God provides ample opportunity for repentance, demonstrating His patience and grace even in the face of our rebellion. This should inspire a deeper trust in His compassionate nature and a willingness to turn from our ways. Conversely, the emphatic statement that He "will not at all acquit the wicked" serves as a solemn warning. It reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the certainty of divine justice for those who stubbornly refuse to repent. This should cultivate a profound reverence for God's holiness and a commitment to living righteously. Recognizing God's "great power" and His sovereign control over all things, even the whirlwind and storm, encourages us to surrender our anxieties and fears to Him, trusting that He is ultimately in control of our circumstances and the course of history. It calls us to live with both humble gratitude for His mercy and reverent awe for His unyielding justice.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God as "slow to anger" impact your view of His character and your own need for repentance?**
* **In what ways does the certainty that God "will not at all acquit the wicked" shape your understanding of justice, both divine and human?**
* **How can the imagery of God having His way in the whirlwind and storm, with clouds as the dust of His feet, deepen your trust in His sovereignty during times of personal or global turmoil?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean that "The LORD is slow to anger"?**

Answer: The phrase "slow to anger" (Hebrew: _ʼarek ʼappayim_) is an idiom meaning "long of nostrils" or "long of face," signifying great patience and forbearance. It means that God does not quickly or impulsively become angry or unleash His wrath. Instead, He is exceedingly patient, providing ample time and opportunity for humanity to repent and turn to Him. This characteristic is a cornerstone of God's covenantal faithfulness and mercy, frequently reiterated throughout Scripture, such as in [Exodus 34:6](/exodus/34-6 "Exodus 34:6 - The LORD, a compassionate and gracious God") and [Psalm 103:8](/psalms/103-8 "Psalm 103:8 - The LORD is merciful and gracious").

**How can God be "slow to anger" but also "not at all acquit the wicked"? Is that a contradiction?**

Answer: No, it is not a contradiction; rather, it highlights the perfect balance of God's character: His mercy and His justice. Being "slow to anger" demonstrates His patience and desire for people to turn from their wicked ways. He delays judgment, offering grace. However, His holiness and righteousness demand that sin cannot go unpunished indefinitely. The phrase "will not at all acquit the wicked" (an emphatic Hebrew construction) means that He will never declare the guilty innocent or allow their transgressions to be overlooked. Those who persistently reject His grace and stubbornly continue in wickedness will face His righteous judgment. This balance is crucial to understanding God's nature, as seen in [Romans 2:4-6](/romans/2-4-6 "Romans 2:4-6 - God's kindness leads to repentance, but judgment awaits the unrepentant").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Nahum 1:3, while declaring God's character in the context of judgment against Nineveh, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The declaration that the LORD is "slow to anger" is perfectly embodied in Christ, who, though fully God, came not to condemn the world immediately but to offer salvation (as seen in [John 3:17](/john/3-17 "John 3:17 - Jesus came not to condemn the world")). His patient forbearance is evident in His earthly ministry, His willingness to suffer for sinners, and His continued offer of grace through the Gospel. Yet, the truth that God "will not at all acquit the wicked" is also fulfilled in Christ. For the wicked to be acquitted, a righteous sacrifice was necessary. Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God, bore the full wrath and judgment for sin on the cross, satisfying divine justice for all who believe (as described in [Romans 3:23-26](/romans/3-23-26 "Romans 3:23-26 - Righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ")). Thus, God's justice is upheld, and the wicked can be declared righteous, not by their own merit, but by faith in Christ's atoning work. Furthermore, the imagery of the LORD having His "way in the whirlwind and in the storm" and the "clouds [as] the dust of his feet" foreshadows Christ's ultimate authority and power. He is the one who calms storms with a word ([Mark 4:39](/mark/4-39 "Mark 4:39 - Jesus calms the storm")) and who will return in glory on the clouds to execute final judgment and establish His eternal kingdom ([Matthew 24:30](/matthew/24-30 "Matthew 24:30 - The sign of the Son of Man in heaven") and [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - The Rider on the White Horse")). In Christ, God's patient grace, unyielding justice, and supreme power are perfectly reconciled and revealed.

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

Psalms 147:5

Great [is] our Lord, and of great power: his understanding [is] infinite.

Exodus 34:6

And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,

Exodus 34:7

Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear [the guilty]; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth [generation].

Nehemiah 9:17

And refused to obey, neither were mindful of thy wonders that thou didst among them; but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage: but thou [art] a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsookest them not.

Psalms 104:3

Who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters: who maketh the clouds his chariot: who walketh upon the wings of the wind:

Psalms 145:8

The LORD [is] gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.

Psalms 103:8

The LORD [is] merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.