Nahum 3:11

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou also shalt be drunken {H7937}: thou shalt be hid {H5956}, thou also shalt seek {H1245} strength {H4581} because of the enemy {H341}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You too, [Ninveh,] will be drunk; your senses completely overcome. You too will seek a refuge from the enemy.

Berean Standard Bible

You too will become drunk; you will go into hiding and seek refuge from the enemy.

American Standard Version

Thou also shalt be drunken; thou shalt be hid; thou also shalt seek a stronghold because of the enemy.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nahum 3:11 powerfully declares the comprehensive downfall and utter humiliation of Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, under God's righteous judgment. This verse vividly portrays the once-mighty city as disoriented and helpless, like one overcome by drunkenness, stripped of its former glory and unable to find refuge or strength against its enemies, mirroring the suffering it had inflicted upon other nations. It underscores the inescapable nature of divine retribution and the futility of human power when confronted by the sovereign will of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nahum 3:11 is nestled within the third and final chapter of Nahum, which focuses intensely on the vivid description of Nineveh's impending destruction. Following the prophet's declaration of "Woe to the bloody city!" in [Nahum 3:1](/nahum/3-1 "Nahum 3:1 - Woe to the Bloody City"), the chapter paints a grim picture of siege warfare, widespread slaughter, and the city's moral depravity, characterized by its "harlotries" and "witchcrafts" (cf. [Nahum 3:4](/nahum/3-4 "Nahum 3:4 - Nineveh's Harlotry and Witchcraft")). Verses [Nahum 3:8-10](/nahum/3-8-10 "Nahum 3:8-10 - The Fall of Thebes as a Precedent") provide a stark historical parallel, reminding Nineveh of the fate of No-amon (Thebes), a powerful Egyptian city that also fell despite its strength, serving as a prophetic warning that Nineveh's perceived invincibility was an illusion. Verse 11 directly follows this comparison, emphasizing that Nineveh's end will be no different, marked by disorientation, disgrace, and a desperate, futile search for aid. The subsequent verses continue to detail the city's complete vulnerability, the flight of its leaders, and its ultimate desolation (cf. [Nahum 3:12-19](/nahum/3-12-19 "Nahum 3:12-19 - The Utter Desolation of Nineveh")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Nahum is a prophecy against Nineveh, the formidable capital of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, which dominated the ancient Near East from the 9th to the 7th centuries BCE. Assyria was renowned for its brutal military campaigns, its policy of mass deportations, and its ruthless suppression of revolts. For centuries, Assyria had been a terrifying oppressor, particularly for the kingdom of Judah, which had experienced Assyrian invasions and vassalage (e.g., under Sennacherib in [2 Kings 18-19](/2_kings/18-19 "2 Kings 18-19 - Sennacherib's Invasion and God's Deliverance")). Nineveh itself was a massive, heavily fortified city, considered impregnable, boasting immense walls and a vast population. The prophecy of Nahum, delivered likely in the late 7th century BCE (before Nineveh's fall in 612 BCE), would have brought immense comfort and hope to the people of Judah, assuring them that God, in His justice, would not allow their cruel oppressor to go unpunished indefinitely. The imagery of "drunkenness" and "hiding" would have resonated deeply with a culture familiar with the public humiliation of defeated enemies and the devastating effects of military conquest.
* **Key Themes:** Nahum 3:11 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Nahum and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **Divine Retribution** and the principle of *lex talionis* (law of retaliation), where Nineveh's fate mirrors the suffering it inflicted. Just as Nineveh made other nations "drunken" with violence and oppression, it would now experience a similar state of disorientation and helplessness. Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of **Humiliation and Disgrace**, emphasizing that Nineveh, once the proud and dominant power, would be utterly stripped of its prominence and hidden in shame. This stark reversal underscores the transient nature of earthly power. Thirdly, it underscores the **Futility of Human Strength** when it stands against the sovereign will of God. Despite Nineveh's formidable military might and extensive fortifications, its desperate "seeking strength because of the enemy" proves utterly ineffectual against divine judgment. Finally, and perhaps most profoundly, the verse reinforces the **Sovereignty of God** over the destinies of nations. No empire, however mighty or seemingly invincible, is beyond God's reach or accountability. This truth offers profound comfort to God's people, assuring them that their ultimate security rests not in political alliances or military might, but in the Lord who judges righteously (cf. [Psalm 9:7-8](/psalms/9-7-8 "Psalm 9:7-8 - God Judges Righteously")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **drunken (Hebrew, _shâkar'_):** This primitive root means "to become tipsy; in a qualified sense, to satiate with a stimulating drink or (figuratively) influence; (be filled with) drink (abundantly), (be, make) drunk(-en), be merry." In this context, it is a powerful metaphor for Nineveh's state of utter disorientation, helplessness, and moral stupor, as if reeling from a potent, overwhelming draught of God's wrath. It signifies a loss of control, clarity, and ability to resist.
* **hid (Hebrew, _ʻâlam'_):** This primitive root means "to veil from sight, i.e. conceal (literally or figuratively); [idiom] any ways, blind, dissembler, hide (self), secret (thing)." Here, it conveys the idea of Nineveh being completely removed from prominence, obscured, forgotten, or utterly disgraced. It implies not just defeat, but a profound and lasting disappearance from its former position of power and visibility, a complete reversal of its prior dominance.
* **seek (Hebrew, _bâqash'_):** This primitive root means "to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after; ask, beg, beseech, desire, enquire, get, make inquisition, procure, (make) request, require, seek (for)." In Nahum 3:11, it describes Nineveh's desperate, yet futile, attempt to find external help or internal resilience in the face of its destruction. This "seeking" highlights its utter lack of self-sufficiency against the divine onslaught.
* **strength (Hebrew, _mâʻôwz'_):** This word (also _mâʻûz_ or _mâʻôz_) derives from 'âzaz, meaning "a fortified place; figuratively, a defence; force, fort(-ress), rock, strength(-en), ([idiom] most) strong (hold)." It refers to Nineveh's desperate search for a secure refuge, a fortified position, or military power to defend itself. The irony is that Nineveh, once the epitome of strength and a "stronghold," will now be desperately seeking the very thing it once possessed and projected, but to no avail.
* **enemy (Hebrew, _ʼôyêb'_):** This is an active participle of 'âyaḇ, meaning "hating; an adversary; enemy, foe." This refers to the coalition of forces (Babylonians, Medes, Scythians) that would ultimately besiege and destroy Nineveh. The term emphasizes the hostile and destructive nature of the forces God would raise up against the city.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou also shalt be drunken:"** This clause prophesies Nineveh's complete disorientation and helplessness. The metaphor of drunkenness signifies a state of being overwhelmed, staggering, and unable to act rationally or effectively. It implies a loss of control and a profound stupor, not from literal wine, but from the overwhelming judgment of God. This is a direct consequence of its own actions, as Nineveh had made other nations "drunken" with its violence and oppression.
* **"thou shalt be hid,"** This phrase declares Nineveh's utter disgrace and disappearance from the world stage. "Hid" suggests being concealed, forgotten, or removed from public view, a stark reversal for a city that once dominated the ancient world and was highly visible. It implies a complete and permanent downfall, a blotting out of its former glory and power.
* **"thou also shalt seek strength because of the enemy."** This final clause highlights Nineveh's desperate but futile attempts to find refuge or military power against its attackers. Despite its historical might and formidable fortifications, the city will be reduced to desperately seeking help, yet finding none. This emphasizes the ultimate inadequacy of human strength and alliances when confronted with the sovereign judgment of God, who raises up the "enemy" to execute His decree.

#### Literary Devices
Nahum 3:11 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of impending doom. **Metaphor** is central, particularly in the phrase "Thou also shalt be drunken." This does not imply literal intoxication but vividly portrays Nineveh's state of overwhelming confusion, helplessness, and moral stupor, as if staggering under the weight of divine judgment. This metaphor is often used in prophetic literature to describe the "cup of wrath" God pours out on nations (e.g., [Jeremiah 25:15](/jeremiah/25-15 "Jeremiah 25:15 - The Cup of God's Fury")). The phrase "thou shalt be hid" uses **Hyperbole** and **Symbolism** to emphasize the complete and utter disappearance of Nineveh from its position of power and prominence, symbolizing its total annihilation and disgrace. Furthermore, there is a strong element of **Irony** in the entire verse: Nineveh, which once made others "drunken" with its violence and sought to hide its victims, would now experience the same fate. The city that was once the epitome of "strength" (mâʻôwz) would desperately "seek strength" but find none, underscoring the reversal of its fortunes and the futility of relying on human might against divine decree. The repeated "thou also" (implied in the Hebrew structure) creates a sense of **Parallelism** and emphasizes that Nineveh's fate is a just recompense, mirroring the suffering it inflicted on others.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nahum 3:11 serves as a profound theological statement on God's character and His interaction with human history. It unequivocally asserts God's unwavering justice and His sovereign control over the rise and fall of nations. The destruction of Nineveh, a city synonymous with cruelty and oppression, demonstrates that God does not ignore wickedness; rather, He holds all powers, no matter how formidable, accountable for their actions. This truth provides immense comfort to the oppressed, assuring them that their cries for justice are heard and that divine retribution will ultimately prevail. It underscores the biblical principle that while God is patient, His patience is not infinite, and those who persist in unrighteousness will eventually face His righteous judgment.

* [Jeremiah 25:15-16](/jeremiah/25-15-16 "Jeremiah 25:15-16 - The Cup of God's Wrath for the Nations")
* [Psalm 9:15-16](/psalms/9-15-16 "Psalm 9:15-16 - The Wicked Caught in Their Own Trap")
* [Revelation 18:2-3](/revelation/18-2-3 "Revelation 18:2-3 - The Fall of Babylon, a Parallel to Nineveh")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nahum 3:11 offers timeless lessons for individuals and nations today. It serves as a stark reminder that pride, unchecked power, and reliance on one's own strength ultimately lead to downfall. For those in positions of authority, it is a call to humility and righteous governance, emphasizing that true security and lasting influence come not from military might or economic dominance, but from aligning with God's justice and compassion. For the oppressed, the verse offers a powerful message of hope and assurance that God sees their suffering and will ultimately bring justice against oppressors. It encourages believers to place their trust not in the fleeting power of human institutions or personal achievements, but in the enduring sovereignty of God, who alone is the ultimate source of strength and refuge. Furthermore, it challenges us to examine our own lives: are we, like Nineveh, becoming "drunken" with worldly pursuits, hiding from accountability, or desperately seeking strength in things that will ultimately fail?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be relying on my own "strength" or worldly resources rather than trusting in God's sovereignty?**
* **How does the fall of Nineveh, as described here, encourage me to trust in God's justice even when I see injustice seemingly prevail in the world today?**
* **What "drunkenness" or disorientation (spiritual or moral) might I be experiencing, and how can I seek clarity and sobriety through God's Word?**
* **How can I actively pray for justice and righteousness in my community and among nations, reflecting God's character revealed in Nahum?**

### FAQ
**What does "Thou also shalt be drunken" mean in this context?**

Answer: In Nahum 3:11, "Thou also shalt be drunken" is a powerful prophetic metaphor, not an indication of literal intoxication. It signifies Nineveh's complete disorientation, helplessness, and moral stupor in the face of God's overwhelming judgment. Just as a person who is drunk loses control, clarity of thought, and the ability to stand firm, Nineveh would be rendered utterly powerless and confused by the divine wrath unleashed upon it. This imagery is common in biblical prophecy, often referring to drinking the "cup of wrath" or "cup of judgment" from God, symbolizing overwhelming divine punishment, as seen in [Jeremiah 25:15](/jeremiah/25-15 "Jeremiah 25:15 - The Cup of God's Fury") and [Revelation 14:10](/revelation/14-10 "Revelation 14:10 - The Wine of God's Wrath"). It also carries an element of poetic justice, as Nineveh had made other nations "drunken" with its violence and oppression.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Nahum 3:11 directly prophesies the judgment of Nineveh, its themes of divine justice, the futility of human strength, and the ultimate triumph of God's sovereignty find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. Jesus Christ is the ultimate embodiment of God's righteous judgment and His perfect justice. He is the one who will ultimately bring all oppressors to account and establish an eternal kingdom where righteousness dwells (cf. [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ as Righteous Judge and Warrior")). The "strength" that Nineveh desperately sought but could not find is fully realized in Christ, who is our "refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" (cf. [Psalm 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength")). Furthermore, the "hiding" of Nineveh foreshadows the ultimate fate of all who reject God's rule; they will seek to hide from the face of the Lamb and Him who sits on the throne on the day of wrath (cf. [Revelation 6:15-17](/revelation/6-15-17 "Revelation 6:15-17 - People Hiding from God's Wrath")). Conversely, those who trust in Christ find their true strength and security in Him, hidden in Him from the wrath to come, and are promised eternal life and refuge (cf. [Colossians 3:3](/colossians/3-3 "Colossians 3:3 - Your Life Hidden with Christ in God") and [John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God's Love and Eternal Life")). Thus, Nahum 3:11, in its depiction of judgment and the failure of human power, ultimately points to the necessity and sufficiency of Christ as the only true source of strength, justice, and salvation.

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

Isaiah 49:26

And I will feed them that oppress thee with their own flesh; and they shall be drunken with their own blood, as with sweet wine: and all flesh shall know that I the LORD [am] thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.

Isaiah 2:10

¶ Enter into the rock, and hide thee in the dust, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory of his majesty.

Psalms 75:8

For in the hand of the LORD [there is] a cup, and the wine is red; it is full of mixture; and he poureth out of the same: but the dregs thereof, all the wicked of the earth shall wring [them] out, [and] drink [them].

Nahum 1:10

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

Isaiah 2:19

And they shall go into the holes of the rocks, and into the caves of the earth, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth.

Luke 23:30

Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us.

Revelation 6:15

And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;