Nahum 2:11

Authorized King James Version

Where is the dwelling of the lions, and the feedingplace of the young lions, where the lion, even the old lion, walked, and the lion's whelp, and none made them afraid?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַיֵּה֙
where?
#2
מְע֣וֹן
Where is the dwelling
an abode, of god (the tabernacle or the temple), men (their home) or animals (their lair); hence, a retreat (asylum)
#3
אַרְיֵ֖ה
and the lion's
a lion
#4
וּמִרְעֶ֥ה
and the feedingplace
pasture (the place or the act); also the haunt of wild animals
#5
ה֖וּא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#6
לַכְּפִרִ֑ים
of the young lions
a village (as covered in by walls); also a young lion (perhaps as covered with a mane)
#7
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#8
הָלַךְ֩
walked
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#9
אַרְיֵ֖ה
and the lion's
a lion
#10
לָבִ֥יא
even the old lion
a lion (properly, a lioness as the fiercer (although not a roarer;))
#11
שָׁ֛ם
there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence
#12
גּ֥וּר
whelp
a cub (as still abiding in the lair), especially of the lion
#13
אַרְיֵ֖ה
and the lion's
a lion
#14
וְאֵ֥ין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#15
מַחֲרִֽיד׃
and none made them afraid
to shudder with terror; hence, to fear; also to hasten (with anxiety)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Nahum. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection