Nahum 3:6

Authorized King James Version

And I will cast abominable filth upon thee, and make thee vile, and will set thee as a gazingstock.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהִשְׁלַכְתִּ֥י
And I will cast
to throw out, down or away (literally or figuratively)
#2
עָלַ֛יִךְ
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#3
שִׁקֻּצִ֖ים
abominable filth
disgusting, i.e., filthy; especially idolatrous or (concretely) an idol
#4
וְנִבַּלְתִּ֑יךְ
upon thee and make thee vile
to wilt; generally, to fall away, fail, faint
#5
וְשַׂמְתִּ֖יךְ
and will set
to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)
#6
כְּרֹֽאִי׃
thee as a gazingstock
sight, whether abstractly (vision) or concretely (a spectacle)

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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection