Nahum 3:12

KJV

All thy strong holds [shall be like] fig trees with the firstripe figs: if they be shaken, they shall even fall into the mouth of the eater.

KJV (with Strong's)

All thy strong holds {H4013} shall be like fig trees {H8384} with the firstripe figs {H1061}: if they be shaken {H5128}, they shall even fall {H5307} into the mouth {H6310} of the eater {H398}.

Complete Jewish Bible

All your fortifications will be like fig trees with early ripening figs; the moment they are shaken, they fall into the mouth of the eater.

Berean Standard Bible

All your fortresses are fig trees with the first ripe figs; when shaken, they fall into the mouth of the eater!

American Standard Version

All thy fortresses shall be like fig-trees with the first-ripe figs: if they be shaken, they fall into the mouth of the eater.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Nahum 3:12 delivers a stark and vivid prophecy foretelling the swift and utterly effortless downfall of Nineveh, the formidable capital of the Assyrian Empire. Through the striking imagery of fortified strongholds likened to fig trees laden with easily dislodged firstripe figs, the prophet declares that Nineveh's seemingly impregnable defenses will collapse with minimal effort, falling readily into the hands of its conquerors, signifying a complete and inevitable divine judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Nahum 3:12 is situated within the latter half of the book, specifically as part of a detailed indictment against Nineveh that began in [Nahum 3:1](/nahum/3-1 "Nahum 3:1 - Woe to the Bloody City"). The preceding verses (Nahum 3:1-7) paint a grim picture of Nineveh as a "bloody city" full of lies, plunder, and harlotry, deserving of divine wrath. The prophet vividly describes the city's impending siege, the overwhelming force of its attackers, and the utter desolation that will befall it. Verse 12 serves as a powerful climax to this description of military defeat, using a simple, relatable agricultural metaphor to underscore the ease and certainty of Nineveh's collapse, contrasting sharply with its reputation as an unassailable fortress. The imagery moves from the chaos of battle to the quiet, inevitable act of harvesting, emphasizing the predetermined nature of Nineveh's fate.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Nineveh, the capital of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, was renowned throughout the ancient Near East for its immense fortifications, military might, and brutal conquests. Its walls were legendary, and its army was feared. The Assyrians had a long history of oppressing Israel and Judah, and their cruelty was well-documented. The prophecy in Nahum anticipates the fall of Nineveh in 612 BC to a coalition of Babylonians and Medes. Culturally, "firstripe figs" (Hebrew: _bikkûwr_) were highly prized in the ancient world. They were the earliest fruits of the season, often appearing in late spring or early summer, before the main harvest. They were considered a delicacy, easily plucked from the tree, and eagerly consumed. This cultural understanding of the firstripe fig makes the comparison particularly potent: Nineveh's strongholds, despite their apparent strength, would be as readily taken and consumed as these desirable, easily accessible fruits.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the Book of Nahum and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Judgment and Sovereignty**, demonstrating God's absolute authority over human empires. No earthly power, regardless of its perceived strength or military prowess, can withstand the judgment of the Almighty, reinforcing the truth that God rules in the [kingdom of men](/daniel/4-35 "Daniel 4:35 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms"). Secondly, it underscores the **Vulnerability of the Mighty**. Nineveh's "strong holds," symbols of its impregnable power, are depicted as no more resistant than fragile figs, emphasizing the fragility of human strength and pride when confronted with divine power. Thirdly, the imagery conveys the **Swiftness and Ease of Fall**, illustrating that Nineveh's collapse would be effortless for its conquerors, much like plucking a ripe fig. This signifies a complete and decisive victory, almost without struggle, akin to the [gleanings after a harvest](/isaiah/17-6 "Isaiah 17:6 - Remnant Like Gleanings"). Finally, while not explicitly stated in this verse, the broader context of Nahum emphasizes that Nineveh's destruction was a just retribution for its widespread violence, treachery, and oppression, fulfilling the theme of **Retributive Justice** for the "bloody city" described in [Nahum 3:1](/nahum/3-1 "Nahum 3:1 - Woe to the Bloody City").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **strong holds (Hebrew, _mibtsâr'_):** From the root _bâtsar_, meaning "to cut off" or "to fortify," this word refers to a fortification, castle, or fortified city. Figuratively, it can also denote a defender. In Nahum 3:12, it emphasizes the significant defensive structures Nineveh possessed, making the comparison to fragile figs even more striking and ironic.
* **firstripe figs (Hebrew, _bikkûwr'_):** From the root _bâkar_, meaning "to be first" or "to bear first-fruits," this term denotes the earliest fruits of the crop, specifically the first and most desired figs. The choice of this word vividly portrays the effortless nature of Nineveh's capture, as these figs were easily dislodged and highly sought after.
* **fall (Hebrew, _nâphal'_):** A primitive root meaning "to fall," with a wide variety of applications including to cease, die, fail, or be overthrown. In this context, it signifies the complete collapse and defeat of Nineveh's defenses and the city itself, emphasizing the inevitability and finality of its destruction.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"All thy strong holds [shall be like] fig trees with the firstripe figs":** This opening clause establishes the central simile. Nineveh's formidable fortifications, which were the very symbol of its strength and security, are shockingly equated with something as common and vulnerable as a fig tree. The "firstripe figs" specifically highlight not just the presence of fruit, but fruit that is at its peak ripeness, easily accessible, and highly desirable, implying that Nineveh's defenses are not only weak but also a tempting target for its enemies.
* **"if they be shaken":** This short conditional clause describes the minimal effort required to bring about the collapse. The word "shaken" (Hebrew: _nûwaʻ_) implies a slight movement, a gentle tremor, or a mere jolt, not a violent assault. This underscores the almost effortless nature of Nineveh's fall, contrasting sharply with the immense military campaigns typically required to conquer fortified cities. It suggests that Nineveh's defenses were so ripe for collapse that even a minor disturbance would suffice.
* **"they shall even fall into the mouth of the eater":** This concluding phrase graphically completes the metaphor. The figs, representing Nineveh's strongholds and perhaps its people, do not just fall to the ground but fall directly "into the mouth of the eater." The "eater" (Hebrew: _ʼâkal_) represents the conquering armies. This imagery conveys a sense of immediate, complete, and satisfying consumption, implying that Nineveh's defeat will be total, its resources and inhabitants devoured by its enemies with ease and relish, leaving nothing behind.

#### Literary Devices
Nahum 3:12 is rich in **Imagery** and **Simile**, effectively conveying its prophetic message. The primary device is a powerful **Simile**, comparing Nineveh's "strong holds" to "fig trees with the firstripe figs." This comparison is highly effective because it juxtaposes the perceived impregnability of a fortress with the inherent fragility and easy accessibility of ripe fruit. The phrase "if they be shaken, they shall even fall into the mouth of the eater" extends this simile, creating a vivid mental picture of effortless consumption. This also employs a form of **Hyperbole**, as the ease of Nineveh's fall is exaggerated to emphasize the overwhelming nature of God's judgment and the futility of human resistance. The "mouth of the eater" functions as a **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, representing the conquering army or nation that will completely consume and destroy Nineveh. The entire verse uses **Prophetic Irony**, as Nineveh's greatest strength (its fortifications) is depicted as its greatest vulnerability, ripe for the taking.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Nahum 3:12 serves as a profound theological statement on God's sovereign control over nations and His unwavering commitment to justice. It demonstrates that no human empire, no matter how powerful or fortified, can ultimately withstand the divine decree. Nineveh's seemingly unassailable strongholds were, in God's eyes, nothing more than easily plucked fruit, ripe for judgment. This illustrates that human pride and self-reliance are utterly futile against the omnipotence of God. The ease of Nineveh's fall is a testament to God's power to dismantle even the most formidable earthly structures, ensuring that His righteous judgment will be executed swiftly and completely. This passage reminds us that while human kingdoms rise and fall, God's kingdom endures forever, and His justice will ultimately prevail over all oppression and wickedness.

* [Isaiah 13:1-22](/isaiah/13 "Isaiah 13 - Prophecy Against Babylon") - Prophecies against Babylon similarly describe its inevitable and devastating fall, demonstrating God's judgment against proud empires.
* [Jeremiah 25:9-14](/jeremiah/25-9-14 "Jeremiah 25:9-14 - God's Judgment Through Babylon") - God declares His use of foreign nations as instruments of His judgment against disobedient peoples, highlighting His sovereignty over history.
* [Revelation 18:2-8](/revelation/18-2-8 "Revelation 18:2-8 - The Fall of Babylon the Great") - The ultimate prophetic vision of the fall of "Babylon the Great," a symbolic representation of all oppressive, anti-God systems, echoing the themes of swift and complete divine judgment.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Nahum 3:12 offers timeless lessons for believers and the world at large. For those who place their trust in worldly security—whether financial assets, political power, military strength, or even personal achievements—this verse serves as a stark warning. It reminds us that all human constructs, no matter how robust they appear, are ultimately fragile and temporary when confronted with the sovereign will of God. True and lasting security is found not in earthly "strongholds" but in humble reliance on the Lord. For those who feel oppressed or witness injustice, Nahum's prophecy provides comfort and hope, assuring them that God sees the suffering and will, in His perfect timing, bring justice to the oppressors. It encourages us to cultivate humility, to avoid the arrogance that often accompanies power, and to remember that God is the ultimate judge who brings down the proud and exalts the humble. Our focus should be on building a life rooted in eternal truths rather than on accumulating perishable earthly defenses.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "strongholds" in your life or society do you tend to rely on more than God?**
* **How does the swiftness and ease of Nineveh's fall challenge your understanding of human power and divine sovereignty?**
* **In what ways can recognizing God's ultimate justice bring you comfort or challenge you to live more righteously?**

### FAQ

**Why is Nineveh singled out for such harsh judgment?**

Answer: Nineveh, as the capital of the Assyrian Empire, was notorious for its extreme cruelty, violence, and oppressive rule over conquered peoples, including Israel and Judah. The Assyrians were known for their brutal tactics, mass deportations, and desecration of other nations' gods. While God had previously shown mercy to Nineveh through Jonah's preaching, their repentance was temporary, and they reverted to their wicked ways. Nahum's prophecy, therefore, represents God's righteous and long-delayed judgment against a city and empire that had consistently defied Him, oppressed His people, and engaged in widespread idolatry and bloodshed, as detailed in [Nahum 3:1-4](/nahum/3-1-4 "Nahum 3:1-4 - Woe to the Bloody City"). It demonstrates God's commitment to justice for the oppressed and His ultimate authority over all earthly kingdoms.

**What does the imagery of "firstripe figs" specifically signify about Nineveh's fall?**

Answer: The "firstripe figs" (Hebrew: _bikkûwr_) were the earliest and most desirable figs, known for being tender, sweet, and easily dislodged from the tree with a slight shake. This imagery signifies several key aspects of Nineveh's fall:
1. **Effortlessness:** The city's defenses, despite their formidable reputation, would offer virtually no resistance, falling with minimal effort from the attackers, much like a ripe fig falls into one's hand.
2. **Readiness for Consumption:** Nineveh was "ripe" for judgment, its wickedness having reached a point where divine intervention was inevitable and immediate. It was ready to be "consumed" by its enemies.
3. **Desirability for Conquerors:** The city's wealth and strategic importance made it a highly desirable target for its enemies, who would "devour" its spoils with relish, just as one eagerly consumes a firstripe fig. This vivid metaphor underscores the completeness and ease of Nineveh's destruction.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Nahum 3:12 directly prophesies the historical fall of Nineveh, its underlying theological principles find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The verse speaks to God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers and His commitment to righteous judgment against sin and oppression. In Christ, we see the ultimate demonstration of God's power to overcome all strongholds, not merely physical fortifications, but the spiritual strongholds of sin and death. Christ's victory on the cross disarmed the principalities and powers, triumphing over them (see [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumph Over Principalities")). His resurrection shattered the ultimate "stronghold" of death, offering eternal life and true security that no earthly power can provide. Furthermore, Christ's future return will see the complete and final judgment of all unrighteousness and the establishment of His unshakable kingdom, which will consume all earthly kingdoms (see [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ's Return and Victory") and [Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - An Unshakable Kingdom")). Thus, Nahum's prophecy of Nineveh's effortless fall foreshadows the even greater ease with which Christ will ultimately subdue all enemies and establish a kingdom that will never be shaken, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess His Lordship (see [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Jesus Exalted")). The "eater" in Nahum 3:12, representing the instrument of God's judgment, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who executes divine justice and brings about the final triumph of God's righteous reign.

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

Revelation 6:13

And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.

Isaiah 28:4

And the glorious beauty, which [is] on the head of the fat valley, shall be a fading flower, [and] as the hasty fruit before the summer; which [when] he that looketh upon it seeth, while it is yet in his hand he eateth it up.

Habakkuk 1:10

And they shall scoff at the kings, and the princes shall be a scorn unto them: they shall deride every strong hold; for they shall heap dust, and take it.