1
An oracle concerning Nineveh.
The book of the vision of Nahum the Elkoshite.
2
The LORD is a jealous and avenging God;
the LORD takes vengeance and is filled with wrath.
The LORD takes vengeance on his foes and maintains
his wrath aainst his enemies.
3
The LORD is slow to anger and great in power;
the LORD will not leave the guilty unpunished.
His way is in the whirlwind and the storm,
and clouds are the dust of his feet.
4
He rebukes the sea and dries it up; he makes all the rivers run dry.
Bashan and Carmel wither and the blossom of Lebanon fade.
5
The mountains quake before him and the hills melt away.
The earth trembles at his presence, the world and all who live in it.
6
Who can withstand his indignation?
Who can endure his fierce anger?
His wrath is poured out like fire; the rocks are shattered before him.
7
The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble.
He cares for those who trust in him.
8
but with an overwhelming flood he will make an end of Nineveh;
he will pursue his foes into darkness.
9
Whatever they plot against the LORD he will bring to an end;
trouble will not come a second time.
10
They will be entangled among thorns and drunk from their wine;
they will be consumed like dry stubble.
11
From you, O Nineveh, has one come forth who plots evil against the LORD
and counsels wickedness.
12
This is what the LORD says: "Although they have allies and are numerous,
tey will be cut off and pass away. Although I have afflicted you, O Judah,
I will afflict you no more.
13
Now I will break their yoke from your neck and tear your shackles away."
14
The LORD has given a command concerning you, Nineveh:
"You will have no descendants to bear your name.
I will destroy the carved images and cast idols that are in the temple
of your gods. I will prepare your grave, for you are vile."
15
Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news,
who proclaims peace! Celebrate your festivals, O Judah, and fulfill your vows.
No more will the wicked invade you; they will be completely destroyed.
