Nahum 3:14

"Behold, your troops among you are women. The gates of your land are set wide open to your enemies. The fire has devoured your bars."

Key Reflection

In Nahum 3:14, the prophet describes the dire straits of Nineveh, the capital city of Assyria. The image of "troops among you are women" conveys a picture of weakness and fear, as only the most vulnerable members of society would be left to defend the city. Additionally, the gates being "set wide open" suggest that there is no defense against incoming enemies, indicating a complete lack of preparedness or will to resist. The fire devouring the bars further emphasizes the total collapse of security, painting a vivid picture of a city in utter chaos and vulnerability.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Draw thee waters for the siege, fortify thy strongholds -This is not mere mockery at man’s weakness, when he would resist God. It foretells that they shall toil, and that, heavily. Toil is added upon toil. Nineveh did undergo a two years’ siege. Water stands for all provisions within. He bids them, as beforeNahum 2:1, strengthen what was already strong; strongholds, which seemed to “cut off” all approach. These he bids them strengthen, not repairing decays only but making them exceeding strong2 Chronicles 11:12. Go into clay. We seem to see all the inhabitants, like ants on their nest, all poured out, every one busy, every one making preparation for the defense.

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