Nahum 3:17

The crowned are as the locusts, and thy captains as the great grashoppers which campe in the hedges in the cold day: but when the Sunne ariseth, they flee away, and their place is not knowen where they are. Nahum 3:17 (KJV)

Thy crowned

are as the locusts, and thy captains as the great grasshoppers, which camp in the hedges in the cold day,

but when the sun ariseth they flee away, and their place is not known where they

are. Nahum 3:17 (KJV)

Historical Context: Nahum was one of the Minor Prophets in the Old Testament and his prophecy was directed toward the city of Nineveh, the capital of Assyria. The book of Nahum focuses on God’s judgment against Nineveh for its wickedness and violence.

Symbolism and Meaning:

Locusts and Grasshoppers: Nahum uses the imagery of locusts and grasshoppers to describe the great numbers and fleeting nature of Nineveh’s leaders. Just as these insects can quickly swarm an area, the rulers and captains of Nineveh seemed powerful and numerous, yet their power was temporary and would ultimately be scattered and defeated.

Camping in the hedges in the cold day: The phrase refers to Nineveh’s rulers taking shelter among natural plant barriers such as shrubs or bushes, or seeking security in fortified places, believing they were safe during a period of relative calm. The “cold day” symbolizes a time of peace before the storm of God’s judgment.

Fleeing at the rising of the sun: When judgment arrives, the locust‑like leaders will rapidly abandon their positions, unable to withstand divine retribution, and will scatter.

Their place is not known: This indicates that their former authority and influence will be completely erased; the leaders will not regain power or prominence and will be utterly defeated and forgotten.

Application and Lessons:

The consequences of wickedness: The prophecy reminds us that God’s judgment is real and inevitable. Nineveh, despite its power and prominence, faced consequences for its wickedness, serving as a warning that violence, oppression, and evil will ultimately meet divine judgment.

Temporary nature of human power: The locust and grasshopper imagery highlights the transient nature of human authority. No matter how powerful someone appears, their position is fleeting, calling believers to trust in God, the true source of stability.

The sovereignty of God: Nahum underscores God’s sovereignty over all nations and His right to execute judgment according to His righteousness. Though Nineveh seemed strong, God brought its downfall, affirming confidence in His justice and encouraging trust in His ultimate plans even when evil appears dominant.

In conclusion, while the vivid imagery of locusts and grasshoppers illustrates the fleeting nature of human power and the certainty of divine judgment, the quoted passage is not found in Nahum 3:17. The passage reflects themes consistent with Nahum’s message about the downfall of Nineveh, reminding readers of God’s sovereignty and urging trust in Him, knowing that righteousness will ultimately triumph over evil.