Habakkuk, a prophet troubled by the injustice and violence in his society, receives a response from God. He is instructed to write down a vision and make it plain so that others may understand. The vision concerns the proud and arrogant who oppress others, but their time of judgment will come.
In the midst of this, the righteous are urged to live by faith and trust in God’s timing. The prophet is told that though the vision may seem delayed, it will surely come to pass. Those who are filled with greed and violence will ultimately face their consequences.
God pronounces five woes upon the wicked, revealing the consequences of their actions. These include exploiting others, amassing wealth through unjust means, and shedding innocent blood. The Lord declares that the very stones and walls will testify against them.
The chapter ends with a contrast between the futile idols crafted by human hands and the majesty of the true God. The prophet declares that the earth will ultimately be filled with the knowledge of the glory of God, and all human efforts to establish their own kingdoms will crumble.