Nahum 2:5

Authorized King James Version

He shall recount his worthies: they shall stumble in their walk; they shall make haste to the wall thereof, and the defence shall be prepared.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יִזְכֹּר֙
He shall recount
properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male
#2
אַדִּירָ֔יו
his worthies
wide or (generally) large; figuratively, powerful
#3
יִכָּשְׁל֖וּ
they shall stumble
to totter or waver (through weakness of the legs, especially the ankle); by implication, to falter, stumble, faint or fall
#4
בַּהֲלִֽכוָתָ֑ם
in their walk
a walking; by implication, a procession or march, a caravan
#5
יְמַֽהֲרוּ֙
they shall make haste
properly, to be liquid or flow easily, i.e., (by implication)
#6
חֽוֹמָתָ֔הּ
to the wall
a wall of protection
#7
וְהֻכַ֖ן
shall be prepared
properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,
#8
הַסֹּכֵֽךְ׃
thereof and the defence
properly, to entwine as a screen; by implication, to fence in, cover over, (figuratively) protect

Analysis

Within the broader context of Nahum, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Nahum.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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